Chapter 42
Tao Begets One
Original
道生一，一生二，二生三，三生万物。万物负阴而抱阳，冲气以为和。
人之所恶，唯孤、寡、不谷，而王公以为称。故物或损之而益，或益之而损。
人之所教，我亦教之。强梁者不得其死，吾将以为教父。
人之所恶，唯孤、寡、不谷，而王公以为称。故物或损之而益，或益之而损。
人之所教，我亦教之。强梁者不得其死，吾将以为教父。
Translation
Tao begets one; one begets two; two begets three; three begets the ten thousand things. The ten thousand things carry yin and embrace yang, and through the blending of energy they achieve harmony. What people dislike is to be orphaned, widowed, or worthless, yet kings and lords call themselves by these names. Therefore, things are sometimes added to by being diminished, and diminished by being added to. What others teach, I also teach: 'The violent and strong do not die a natural death.' I will take this as the foundation of my teaching.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter explains the creative process of Tao leading to multiplicity, emphasizing balance and the paradox of loss and gain.
How does it relate to me?
It teaches me to find harmony in opposites and to accept that what seems like a loss can be a hidden gain.
What should I do today?
Today, I will embrace feeling diminished, finding hidden strength in humility. Instead of resenting being small, I will learn what this moment teaches about letting go of pride.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?