Page 144 - Built For God Handbook (Annotated and Explained Edition) - The Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching - The New Evangelization - Pope John Paul II

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Chapter 39
Humility

In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness
a
The sky attained Oneness and became clear
The Earth attained Oneness and became still
The Spirit attained Oneness and became divine
The valley attained Oneness and became abundant
The myriad of things attained Oneness and became alive
The rulers attained Oneness and became sovereign
These all arise from the Oneness of God

b
Without clarity, the sky will break open with hailstones
Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake
Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish
Without abundance, the valley will dry up
Without life, the myriad of things will be extinct
Without sovereignty, the rulers will fall

Humility is the root of honor
c
The high is built upon the foundation of the low
Thus, true rulers call themselves alone and unworthy
Don’t they depend on being humble and low? Absolutely!
Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise
d
Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade
But be common and dull as the rocks