This chapter introduces the three treasures of the Tao: compassion, frugality, and humility. It warns against abandoning these virtues for their opposites, which leads to ruin. Compassion is especially emphasized as a source of true strength and divine protection.
Key Concepts
三宝
慈
俭
不敢为天下先
Cite This Chapter
Laozi, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 67, "Three Treasures", laotzu.ai: https://www.laotzu.ai/en/chapters/67/
Classical Chinese, translation, and AI reflection are shown separately; cite this chapter URL for references.
The whole world says that my Way is great, but it seems unlike anything else. Because it is great, it seems unlike anything else. If it were like anything else, it would have become small long ago. I have three treasures that I hold and keep: the first is compassion, the second is frugality, the third is daring not to be ahead of the world. With compassion, one can be brave; with frugality, one can be generous; by daring not to be ahead of the world, one can become the leader of all officials. Now if one abandons compassion and is brave, abandons frugality and is generous, abandons humility and takes the lead, one is dead. Compassion brings victory in battle and security in defense. Heaven will save those it helps, and protect them with compassion.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter introduces the three treasures of the Tao: compassion, frugality, and humility. It warns against abandoning these virtues for their opposites, which leads to ruin. Compassion is especially emphasized as a source of true strength and divine protection.
How does it relate to me?
I often prioritize ambition and assertiveness, thinking they lead to success. This chapter reminds me that true strength comes from gentleness, simplicity, and putting others first. I can be more effective by being less aggressive.
What should I do today?
Today, I will practice humility by letting someone else take the lead in a conversation or meeting, listening more than speaking.
All the world says that, while my Tao is great, it yet appears to be inferior (to other systems of teaching). Now it is just its greatness that makes it seem to be inferior. But I have three precious things which I prize and hold fast. The first is gentleness; the second is economy; and the third is shrinking from taking precedence of others.
AI Modern
The whole world says that my Way is great, but it seems unlike anything else. Because it is great, it seems unlike anything else. If it were like anything else, it would have become small long ago. I have three treasures that I hold and keep: the first is compassion, the second is frugality, the third is daring not to be ahead of the world. With compassion, one can be brave; with frugality, one can be generous; by daring not to be ahead of the world, one can become the leader of all officials. Now if one abandons compassion and is brave, abandons frugality and is generous, abandons humility and takes the lead, one is dead. Compassion brings victory in battle and security in defense. Heaven will save those it helps, and protect them with compassion.
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?
