Of whom the rightest person will be:
who, being unassertive,
constantly conquering others,
simply isn't inferior to them.
Having no intention of acting,
they always do. Being absorbed in their work,
they never stop.
other readings further drafts from the same generation
deeper strata where the meaning thins
the original
1. If any one should wish to get the kingdom for himself, and to
effect this by what he does, I see that he will not succeed. The
kingdom is a spirit-like thing, and cannot be got by active doing. He
who would so win it destroys it; he who would hold it in his grasp
loses it.
2.
The course and nature of things is such that
What was in front is now behind;
What warmed anon we freezing find.
Strength is of weakness oft the spoil;
The store in ruins mocks our toil.
Hence the sage puts away excessive effort, extravagance, and easy
indulgence.