Chapter 35
Hold the Great Image
Original
执大象，天下往。往而不害，安平太。
乐与饵，过客止。道之出口，淡乎其无味，视之不足见，听之不足闻，用之不足既。
乐与饵，过客止。道之出口，淡乎其无味，视之不足见，听之不足闻，用之不足既。
Translation
Hold the great image, and all the world comes to you. They come and are not harmed, but find peace, safety, and tranquility. Music and fine food may stop a traveler, but when the Tao is spoken of, it seems bland and without flavor. Look at it—it cannot be seen. Listen to it—it cannot be heard. Use it—it is inexhaustible.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
The Tao, though intangible and plain, offers lasting peace and fulfillment, unlike fleeting pleasures that only temporarily attract.
How does it relate to me?
I chase excitement and novelty, but they fade. This teaches me to value the simple, constant presence of the Tao for true contentment.
What should I do today?
Today, I will spend five minutes in silence with no distractions, sitting with the plain peace of simply being. I will trust that this stillness nourishes me more than pleasure.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?