Quiet Leadership
This chapter warns against glorifying status and possessions, and reveals the Sage’s way of governing — by quieting desire, nurturing simplicity, and allowing harmony to arise naturally.
Do not glorify the gifted,
and people will not compete.
Do not treasure rare goods,
and people will not steal.
Do not show off possessions,
and people will remain at peace.
The sage governs
by emptying minds,
filling bellies,
softening ambition,
and strengthening character.
He keeps the people
free from craving and cleverness,
so they do not act against the Way.
By letting go of force,
harmony arises on its own.
