The Tao Te Ching (Ursula K. LeGuin’s translation) was among the books I got to this morning. I like seeing it near the top of the pile, as a little shot of wisdom from this little book each day is a good fortifier. Here’s No. 18, “Second Bests”:
In the degradation of the great way
come benevolence and righteousness.
With the exaltation of learning and prudence
comes immense hypocrisy.
The disordered family
is full of dutiful children and parents.
The disordered society
is full of loyal patriots.
I’m not sure what, exactly, to make of the first two lines. Am I to take “benevolence” and “righteousness” at face value, or is there something more to the entire statement? What is the great way? Is it opposed/inimical to the Way? The lines following, however, seem rather straightforward—and they singe when you touch them.
