Chapter 49
The Heart of the Sage
Original
圣人无常心，以百姓心为心。
善者，吾善之；不善者，吾亦善之，德善。
信者，吾信之；不信者，吾亦信之，德信。
圣人在天下，歙歙为天下浑其心。百姓皆注其耳目，圣人皆孩之。
善者，吾善之；不善者，吾亦善之，德善。
信者，吾信之；不信者，吾亦信之，德信。
圣人在天下，歙歙为天下浑其心。百姓皆注其耳目，圣人皆孩之。
Translation
The sage has no fixed heart; he makes the people's heart his heart. To the good I am good; to the not-good I am also good—this is the goodness of Virtue. To the faithful I am faithful; to the faithless I am also faithful—this is the faithfulness of Virtue. The sage dwells in the world, blending his heart with the world. The people all fix their eyes and ears upon him, and the sage treats them all as children.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter describes the sage as one who empties personal bias, responding with unconditional goodness and trust to all people, regardless of their character. The sage harmonizes with the world, seeing everyone as worthy of care, like children.
How does it relate to me?
It challenges me to release judgments and preconceptions about others, especially those I find difficult. It reminds me that true openness is not conditional on others' behavior.
What should I do today?
Today, I will consciously practice kindness and trust toward someone I usually judge or dismiss, without expecting anything in return.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?