Chapter 76

The Soft and Supple

Softness 坚强 生 Death

Original

人之生也柔弱，其死也坚强。万物草木之生也柔脆，其死也枯槁。
故坚强者死之徒，柔弱者生之徒。
是以兵强则灭，木强则折。强大处下，柔弱处上。

Translation

At birth, humans are soft and supple; at death, they are stiff and rigid. All things, like grass and trees, are tender and pliant in life, but dry and brittle in death. Thus, the rigid and stiff are companions of death; the soft and yielding are companions of life. Therefore, a strong army will be destroyed; a strong tree will be broken. The strong and great are inferior; the soft and yielding are superior.

Deep Reflection

What is this chapter about?

This chapter contrasts the qualities of life and death, showing that rigidity and strength lead to destruction, while softness and flexibility sustain life. It applies this to human behavior and social structures, advocating for yielding over force.

How does it relate to me?

It reminds me that in my own life, being stubborn or inflexible in my beliefs or actions often leads to conflict or burnout, while staying open and adaptable helps me navigate challenges more gracefully.

What should I do today?

Today, when faced with a disagreement, I will practice yielding by listening fully to the other person's perspective before asserting my own.

Related Chapters

36 To Shrink, First Expand 43 The Softest Thing 50 The Art of Living 78 Nothing Softer than Water

My Reflection

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

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