Great armies are best positioned.
The vehicle may travel long distances,
But the traveler prefers to stop at home.
High gates are difficult to enter.
The mighty towers may be magnificent,
But people prefer the simplicity of a doorway.
High profits are hidden.
Why seek out riches in vain?
Their nature is not in accord with the Tao.
other readings further drafts from the same generation
deeper strata where the meaning thins
the original
1. If I were suddenly to become known, and (put into a position
to) conduct (a government) according to the Great Tao, what I should
be most afraid of would be a boastful display.
2. The great Tao (or way) is very level and easy; but people love the
by-ways.
3. Their court(-yards and buildings) shall be well kept, but their
fields shall be ill-cultivated, and their granaries very empty. They
shall wear elegant and ornamented robes, carry a sharp sword at their
girdle, pamper themselves in eating and drinking, and have a
superabundance of property and wealth;--such (princes) may be called
robbers and boasters. This is contrary to the Tao surely!