Translation: Tao Te King – Chapter 24. The honor that is not desirable

Chapter 24. The honor that is not desirable

When standing on one’s toes one cannot stay still.

Laozi's ride is badass and Laozi handles it like a pro because right hand is holding the merchandise.
Laozi’s ride is badass and Laozi handles it like a pro because right hand is holding the merchandise. “Laozi Riding and Ox”, hanging scroll, light color on paper, 101.5 x 55.3 cm. Located at the National Palace Museum. {{PD-old}} shot and uploaded by Stout256.

Going apart from your brothers one cannot advance.

Showcasing oneself one does not shine.

Conceit does not earn respect.

To praise oneself is not merit.

The one who raises himself doesn’t stand high.

These things are to the Tao what malfood and excrement are to the body. Everywhere they are despised.

This is why a human who follows the Tao does not attach himself to these.


Own translation from 1925 Finnish translation by Pekka Ervast (ISBN 951-8995-01-X) with kind permission of Ruusu-Ristin Kirjallisuusseura ry.

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