Tao is good at using it

Those skilled in walking leave no tracks;

those skilled in speech make no mistakes;

those skilled in calculation need no counting tools;

those skilled in closing need no bolts, yet nothing can be opened;

those skilled in binding need no ropes, yet nothing can be untied.

Thus, the sage is always skilled at saving people,

so no one is abandoned;

always skilled at utilizing things,

so nothing is wasted.

This is called hidden wisdom.

Therefore, the good person is the teacher of the notgood;

the notgood person is the resource of the good.

To not value the teacher,

or to not cherish the resource,

is great confusion, even for the wise.

This is called the profound mystery.

(This chapter uses metaphors to illustrate the wisdom and skill of the sage. The sage excels at saving people and utilizing things, ensuring that nothing and no one is wasted. Laozi emphasizes the interdependence of good and notgood people: the good serve as models, while the notgood provide lessons. Ignoring this relationship leads even the wise astray.)

Key Concepts:

袭明 (xí míng) – “hidden wisdom” (the sage’s subtle and profound understanding).

善人者不善人之师 (shàn rén zhě bù shàn rén zhī shī) – “the good person is the teacher of the notgood” (the role of the virtuous as guides).

要妙 (yào miào) – “profound mystery” (the deep and subtle principles of the Dao).

Core Philosophy:

Laozi highlights the sage’s ability to act effortlessly and effectively, ensuring that nothing is wasted and no one is left behind. The relationship between good and notgood people is one of mutual learning and growth. By valuing this dynamic, one aligns with the Dao’s profound wisdom, avoiding confusion and achieving harmony.