Tao Te Ching: The Book of the Way (Illustrated Edition)

by Lao Tzu

Tao (The Way) can be infused into the nature and put to use without being exhausted. It is so deep and subtle like an abyss that is the origin of all things. It is complete and perfect as a wholeness that can Round off sharp edges; Resolve confusion; Harmonize with the glory; Act in unity with the lowliness. Tao is so profound and yet in invisible, It exists in everywhere and anywhere. I don not know whose Son It is, It existed before heaven and earth.

Spirit of the valley is immortal. It is called the mystic nature. The gate o f the mystic nature is regarded as the root of the universe. It is everlasting and cannot be consumed.

A person of great virtue is like the flowing water. Water benefits all things and contends not with them. It puts itself in a place that no one wishes to be and thus is closest to Tao. A virtuous person is like water which adapts itself to the perfect place. His mind is like the deep water that is calm and peaceful.

Tao gives life to all beings and Te nurtures, grows, fosters, develops, matures, supports, and protects them. Tao gives birth to life and yet claims no possession. It gives support without holding on to the merit. It matures them but does not take control of. This is called the Mystic Te.