66. Rivers and Seas
Text
English translation
Original Chinese text
江海所以能为百谷王者,以其善下之,故能为百谷王。
English translation
Rivers and seas can rule the hundred valleys because they are good at staying below them. That is why they can rule the hundred valleys.
The sea gathers many streams by occupying the low ground. The image suggests that lasting leadership grows from humility and openness.
Original Chinese text
是以圣人欲上民,必以言下之;欲先民,必以身后之。
English translation
Therefore, when the sage wishes to stand above the people, he must speak humbly to them; when he wishes to lead them, he must place himself behind them.
Authority need not become arrogance. A leader can guide from the front while putting personal status and advantage last.
Original Chinese text
是以圣人处上而民不重,处前而民不害。
English translation
Thus the sage may occupy the higher position without weighing upon the people, and may stand ahead without causing them harm.
When authority is not used to press others down or secure private advantage, leadership does not feel like a burden or obstruction.
Original Chinese text
是以天下乐推而不厌。
English translation
Therefore, everyone gladly supports and advances him without growing weary of him.
A humble leader who does not obstruct others can gain willing support without demanding obedience.
Original Chinese text
以其不争,故天下莫能与之争。
English translation
Because he does not contend, no one in the world can contend with him.
Not contending is not passivity. By refusing to make personal victory the main goal, one avoids being trapped in struggles over status and power.