Chapter 28

Returning to the Simple

雌雄 Infant / Uncarved State Pu (Uncarved Block) 无极

Original

知其雄，守其雌，为天下谿。为天下谿，常德不离，复归于婴儿。
知其白，守其黑，为天下式。为天下式，常德不忒，复归于无极。
知其荣，守其辱，为天下谷。为天下谷，常德乃足，复归于朴。
朴散则为器，圣人用之则为官长。故大制不割。

Translation

Know the male, yet keep to the female—receive the world in your arms. If you receive the world, the eternal virtue will never depart, and you return to the state of an infant. Know the white, yet keep to the black—be a pattern for the world. If you are a pattern for the world, the eternal virtue will not stray, and you return to the infinite. Know honor, yet keep to humility—be a valley for the world. If you are a valley for the world, the eternal virtue will be sufficient, and you return to the unhewn wood. When the unhewn wood is split, it becomes useful tools. The sage uses them to become a leader. Thus, the great ruler does not cut apart.

Deep Reflection

What is this chapter about?

This chapter teaches the balance of opposites—knowing strength but embracing gentleness, light but holding darkness, glory but accepting humility. By doing so, we align with the eternal way and return to simplicity, like an infant or unshaped wood. The sage uses this wholeness to lead without division.

How does it relate to me?

It reminds me to balance my ambitions with humility. In a world that pushes for dominance, I can choose to be receptive and simple. This helps me stay grounded and avoid the stress of constant striving.

What should I do today?

Today, I will consciously choose humility in a situation where I usually assert myself—listening more than speaking, and letting go of the need to be right.

Related Chapters

10 Embracing Unity 15 The Ancient Masters 19 Return to Simplicity 55 The Virtue of Innocence

My Reflection

What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?

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