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Chapter 65

Lead Without Cleverness

The ancient sages guided through simplicity, not cleverness. When leaders avoid manipulation and let go of control, true harmony arises. Hidden virtue lies in leading without forcing.

Lead Without Cleverness

Ancient sages didn’t try to make people clever.
They helped them stay simple.

The more knowledge people chase,
the harder they are to govern.

Ruling with intellect alone brings harm.
Ruling without cunning brings peace.

This is the hidden virtue of leadership:
to act without appearing,
to guide without control.

It seems contrary to most—
but leads all to harmony.

Lead Without Cleverness