Use force with caution in the Tao

Those who assist a ruler with the "Dao" do not rely on military force to dominate the world. Military actions easily invite retribution. Where armies march, thorns and brambles grow; after great battles, there are sure to be years of famine. Those skilled in the use of force seek only to achieve their objectives and dare not rely on military might to assert their strength. They achieve their goals without becoming arrogant, without boasting, without pride, and they regard their success as something they were compelled to do, not as an opportunity to flaunt their power. When things become too strong, they begin to decline. This is called acting contrary to the "Dao," and acting contrary to the "Dao" leads to an early demise.

(This chapter opposes the use of military force to assert dominance, emphasizing that the use of force should be tempered and restrained. Laozi believes that war brings disaster and retribution, and even when objectives are achieved, one should not become complacent or arrogant. When things become excessively strong, they inevitably decline. This is a violation of the natural order of the "Dao" and will inevitably lead to failure.)