This chapter contrasts the simplicity of the Tao's teachings with the world's failure to grasp them. The sage appears ordinary but holds inner treasure.
Key Concepts
易知
被褐怀玉
知我者希
Cite This Chapter
Laozi, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 70, "The Easy Path", laotzu.ai: https://www.laotzu.ai/en/chapters/70/
Classical Chinese, translation, and AI reflection are shown separately; cite this chapter URL for references.
My words are very easy to understand and very easy to practice. Yet no one under heaven can understand them or practice them. Words have an ancestor, deeds have a master. It is because people are ignorant that they do not understand me. Those who understand me are few; those who follow me are noble. Therefore the sage wears coarse cloth but carries jade in his bosom.
Deep Reflection
What is this chapter about?
This chapter contrasts the simplicity of the Tao's teachings with the world's failure to grasp them. The sage appears ordinary but holds inner treasure.
How does it relate to me?
I often seek complex solutions when the simplest path is right before me. I can learn to value inner substance over outer appearance.
What should I do today?
Today, I will perform one kind act without seeking recognition, holding my jade quietly within. I will let my outer appearance be ordinary while my inner intention stays genuine.
My words are very easy to know, and very easy to practise; but there is no one in the world who is able to know and able to practise them. They who know me are few, and I am on that account (the more) to be prized. It is thus that the sage wears (a poor garb of) hair cloth, while he carries his (signet of) jade in his bosom.
AI Modern
My words are very easy to understand and very easy to practice. Yet no one under heaven can understand them or practice them. Words have an ancestor, deeds have a master. It is because people are ignorant that they do not understand me. Those who understand me are few; those who follow me are noble. Therefore the sage wears coarse cloth but carries jade in his bosom.
My Reflection
What does this chapter inspire in you? How will you apply it?
