Chapter 77
The Way of Heaven
Original
天之道，其犹张弓与？高者抑之，下者举之；有余者损之，不足者补之。
天之道，损有余而补不足。人之道则不然，损不足以奉有余。
孰能有余以奉天下？唯有道者。是以圣人为而不恃，功成而不处，其不欲见贤。
天之道，损有余而补不足。人之道则不然，损不足以奉有余。
孰能有余以奉天下？唯有道者。是以圣人为而不恃，功成而不处，其不欲见贤。
Translation
The Way of Heaven is like drawing a bow: the high is brought down, the low is raised up; the excessive is reduced, the deficient is supplemented. The Way of Heaven reduces the abundant and supplements the needy. But the human way is not so: it reduces the needy to serve the abundant. Who can have abundance to offer to the world? Only one who follows the Way. Thus the sage acts without claiming, succeeds without dwelling on it, and does not wish to display his worth.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter contrasts the natural balance of Heaven, which redistributes resources from excess to need, with human society, which often does the opposite. It encourages selfless generosity and humility.
How does it relate to me?
It challenges me to examine my own tendencies to accumulate or hoard, and to instead find ways to share my time, resources, or skills with those who have less.
What should I do today?
Today, I will identify one thing I have in abundance—such as knowledge or extra money—and offer it freely to someone in need.
Related Chapters
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?