Chapter 61
The Great State Flows Downward
Original
大国者下流，天下之交，天下之牝。牝常以静胜牡，以静为下。
故大国以下小国，则取小国；小国以下大国，则取大国。故或下以取，或下而取。
大国不过欲兼畜人，小国不过欲入事人。夫两者各得其所欲，大者宜为下。
故大国以下小国，则取小国；小国以下大国，则取大国。故或下以取，或下而取。
大国不过欲兼畜人，小国不过欲入事人。夫两者各得其所欲，大者宜为下。
Translation
A great state is like the lowland—the meeting place of the world, the female of the world. The female always overcomes the male by stillness, by being low and still. Therefore, if a great state lowers itself before a small state, it wins over the small state; if a small state lowers itself before a great state, it wins over the great state. Thus, one lowers itself to win over, the other lowers itself and is won over. The great state only wishes to unite and nurture others, the small state only wishes to serve and join others. Both get what they desire, but the great should be the lowly.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter teaches that true power comes from humility and stillness, not aggression. Large and small entities can both benefit by yielding, with the greater bearing the greater responsibility to be humble.
How does it relate to me?
In relationships, whether at work or at home, I often feel pressure to assert dominance. This reminds me that listening and being receptive—like the lowland—can create more harmony and trust than pushing my agenda.
What should I do today?
Today, in a conversation where I usually lead, I will consciously pause and let the other person speak first, practicing stillness and receptivity.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?