He who has the Tao (Way) of Non-Form by embracing non-Fever,
will then be in accord with Nature.
All things will be in bloom.
Plant after plant returns to its root.
When you stop things will not endure.
I see the regularity of Heaven.
Heaven is Constant.
My body and its earthly existence
do not lose their nature.
They remain where they are.
other readings further drafts from the same generation
deeper strata where the meaning thins
the original
1. The skilful masters (of the Tao) in old times, with a subtle
and exquisite penetration, comprehended its mysteries, and were deep
(also) so as to elude men's knowledge. As they were thus beyond men's
knowledge, I will make an effort to describe of what sort they
appeared to be.
2. Shrinking looked they like those who wade through a stream in
winter; irresolute like those who are afraid of all around them; grave
like a guest (in awe of his host); evanescent like ice that is melting
away; unpretentious like wood that has not been fashioned into
anything; vacant like a valley, and dull like muddy water.
3. Who can (make) the muddy water (clear)? Let it be still, and it
will gradually become clear. Who can secure the condition of rest?
Let movement go on, and the condition of rest will gradually arise.
4. They who preserve this method of the Tao do not wish to be full (of
themselves). It is through their not being full of themselves that
they can afford to seem worn and not appear new and complete.