Chapter 46
Knowing Contentment
Original
天下有道，却走马以粪。天下无道，戎马生于郊。
祸莫大于不知足，咎莫大于欲得。故知足之足，常足矣。
祸莫大于不知足，咎莫大于欲得。故知足之足，常足矣。
Translation
When the Tao prevails in the world, warhorses are retired to fertilize the fields. When the Tao is absent, warhorses breed on the battlefields. There is no greater calamity than discontent, no greater fault than craving. Therefore, the contentment of knowing contentment is lasting contentment.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter contrasts peace and war as reflections of harmony or disharmony with the Tao, warning that greed and discontent lead to suffering, while contentment brings true fulfillment.
How does it relate to me?
It reminds me to pause and appreciate what I already have, rather than constantly chasing more—whether in work, possessions, or relationships.
What should I do today?
Today, I will write down three things I am grateful for, focusing on their sufficiency. I want to remember that contentment is not having more, but truly wanting less.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?