虛心章第二十一
Key Takeaway: "Elusive and indistinct, yet within it is an image. Indistinct and elusive, yet within it is a substance." — Laozi, Daodejing Chapter 21
The grandest manifestation of virtue follows the Tao alone. Though elusive and shadowy, within its formless depth resides the fertile seed and authentic essence of all things—a foundational perspective explored in Daodejing Chapter 21 Translation.
Daodejing Chapter 21 Translation: Trusting the Original Pattern
The wisdom of Daodejing Chapter 21 Translation addresses a fundamental human dynamic: how we navigate ambition, quietude, and the natural flow of existence. In the classical tradition, this passage serves as both a metaphysical mirror and a practical compass for daily living and leadership. Explore how this principle translates into contemporary daily life in our guide to Out of Place on Purpose: Why the Awake Seem Lost in a World Chasing Success.
By shifting our focus from outer coercion to internal stillness, we uncover a more resilient way of relating to ourselves and the world around us.
Complete Chapter Translation: Modern Western Reading
Such the scope of the All-pervading Power. That it alone can act through the Way. For the Way is a thing impalpable, incommensurable. Incommensurable, impalpable.
Yet latent in it are forms; Impalpable, incommensurable Yet within it are entities. Shadowy it is and dim; Yet within it there is a force, Is none the less efficacious.
From the times of old till now Its charge has not departed But cheers onward the many warriors. How do I know that the many warriors are so?
Through this.
道德经中文原文与对照
【原文】 孔德之容，唯道是從。道之爲物，唯恍唯惚。惚兮恍兮，其中有象；恍兮惚兮，其中有物。窈兮冥兮，其中有精；其精甚真，其中有信。自古及今，其名不去，以閱眾甫。吾何以知眾甫之狀哉？以此。
核心要义解析 (Philosophical Insights)
- 道义发微：本章通过“虛心章第二十一”阐发了《道德经》的核心精髓。从“有”与“无”、“动”与“静”的辩证转化中，提醒我们在日用常行中摒弃过度的功利执念，回归纯粹本真的生命状态。
- 现代启示：当外界喧嚣与评判标准不断施加压力时，保持内心的虚静与不争，反而是最强大的定力与智慧。
Follow the sequential development of the text in Laozi’s next philosophical movement in The Bounty of Humility: Yielding to Remain Whole, Bending to Stand Upright.
For a deeper comparative examination of these ideas, explore our related study on Discerning from Afar: Knowing the World Without Stepping Outside the Door.
