Tao Te Ching 26

In this particular day I shall interpret a verse from the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu, namely verse 26.  In A Source Book In Chinese Philosophy, Wing Tsit Chan presents the verse:

“26. The heavy is the root of the light.

The tranquil is the ruler of the hasty.

Therefore the sage travels all day.

Without leaving his baggage.

Even at the sight of magnificent scenes,

He remains leisurely and indifferent.

How is it that a lord with ten thousand  chariots

Should behave lightheartedly in his empire?

If he is lighthearted, the minister will be destroyed.

If he is hasty, the ruler is lost.” ¹

Firstly, let us discuss the theme of the verse.  The theme of the verse revolves around “wu-wei” (“non-action”) and spontaneity.  This “non-action” refers to doing necessary things and letting them be.  This “non-action” is expressed in human action when an individual does not push himself too much is whatever he does.  Tempering one’s actions means being free from any attempt to satisfy a selfish desire.  It can be observed that humans have a natural tendency to want something or possess something they see as pleasing.   Also, it is a common attitude for human beings to ensure benefits from a certain action that they do.   This is the point where “non-action” draws the line between itself and common human movement. This is because “non-action” involves having the feeling of content. Common human movement, however, has the propensity to be self-centered, thus being driven into overworking.  This action of overworking is rooted from the fact that the individual desires something for itself.

 Let us go over the first six lines of the verse.

“The heavy is the root of the light.

The tranquil is the ruler of the hasty.

Therefore the sage travels all day.

Without leaving his baggage.

Even at the sight of magnificent scenes,

He remains leisurely and indifferent.”

These lines imply that without pushing oneself to too much, one becomes peaceful within.  He does not have a craving for so many things.  It is in this sense that the notion of “non-action” is observed.   Even in pleasant situations, a sage remains true to himself and he is never ruined by them.  He lives according to what is right and natural.  Indifference and being leisurely are characteristics that imply a sense of balance in moments of triumphs, successes and victories in life’s endeavors.  These imply humility and simplicity.  It is in these characteristics that one can fashion his life with Nature and truly become a sage.

Let us proceed to the remaining lines in the verse.

”How is it that a lord with ten thousand chariots

Should behave lightheartedly in his empire?

If he is lighthearted, the minister will be destroyed.

If he is hasty, the ruler is lost.”

In these lines, the notion of “wu-wei” is applied in terms of governing the state.  This application is depicted in the concept of the ruler being “lighthearted”.  What is being meant in here is not imposing things on people.  Imposing things like new laws would only give the opposite effect.  Instead of the supposed order as its objective, it will further worsen the situation.  This is because people will feel restricted.  This restricting feeling then leads them to rebel and commit more crimes as a sign of opposition.  The solution posed by the thought of being “lighthearted” would be that the ruler, instead of imposing unjust laws, focuses more on convincing the people to respect laws and live its essence.  In just being content with the laws and keeping them is enough to establish order. 

The notion of “non-action” and spontaneity are some important concepts Lao Tzu wishes to share to us.  What marked its significance is that it emphasizes one’s capacity to realize a life of balance anchored in humility.  One has to practice the attitude to throw away unnecessary things that can create baggage in him.  Inner calmness and the wisdom to let things be are the values that can lead one to live a lighter and happier life.  One’s life is a heavenly gift.  To nurture it with simplicity, humility, and peace is the message that a sage continues to instill to people in the present.

Source:

   1.       Wing Tsit Chan, “The Natural Way of Lao Tzu”, (United States: Princeton University Press, 1963), In A Source Book In Chinese Philosophy,153.