Page 144 - Built For God Handbook (Bible Verses) - The Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching - The New Evangelization - Pope John Paul II
P. 144

78

                                  Chapter 39
                                    Humility


                                                           a
            In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness
            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
            Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade
                                             d
            But be common and dull as the rocks
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