About Chapter Eight of Dao De Jing

Dr Aihan Kuhn

 

We have been studying the Dao since 1998. We are still studying, learning, and discussing this ancient wisdom and applying it to our modern lives to reduce stress, restore inner peace, and maintain the best attitude facing an uncertain world. This is the way to maintain our balanced health and life, and this is why we continue to study the Dao every month. The Dao we are learning is purely philosophical, not religious.

 

In the March Zoom meeting (our free meeting for all TQHI members), we studied Dao De Jing chapter 8; I find it helpful for us to understand the current situation worldwide.

Therefore, I want to share with you.

 

Chapter Eight: Non-competitive Values

The highest value is like water.

The value in water benefits all things, and yet it does not contend.

It stays in places that others disdain, and therefore is close to the Dao.

 

The value in dwelling is location.

The value in a mind is depth.

The value in relations is benevolence.

The value in words is sincerity.

The value in leadership is order.

The value in work is competence.

The value in effort is timeliness.

 

Since, indeed, they do not contend, there is no resentment.

 

------- from THE TAO OF POWER, Lao Tzu’s Classic Guide to Leadership, Influence, and Excellence. 

Translated by R. L. WING

 

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