The blue Danube
This verse from the Tao-te-ching speaks about teaching people to “not know”. What does that mean ? Maybe it is to cease judging, drop expectation and stay open to all possibilities. Understand and drop old conditioning. It is very difficult to talk someone out of their conviction – and I always have to check my own fixations too. What is it I believe to be true as opposed to what is true. It is of absolute importance to be honest to oneself – and others. Sometimes I am invited by someone to call upon the truth below the surface. When they know that they don’t know, people can find their own way.
The ancient Masters
didn’t try to educate the people,
but kindly taught them to not know.When they think that they know the answers,
people are difficult to guide.
When they know that they don’t know,
people can find their own way.If you want to learn how to govern,
avoid being clever or rich.
The simpest pattern is the clearest.
Content with an ordinary life,
you can show all people the way
back to their own true nature
Thanks, Michaela. It is interesting to compare translations. Here is Witter Bynner’s version:
65.
Sound old rulers, it is said,
Left people to themselves, instead
Of wanting to teach everything
And start the people arguing.
With mere instruction in command,
So that people understand
Less than they know, woe is the land;
But happy the land that is ordered so
That they understand more than they know.
For everyone’s good this double key
Locks and unlocks equally.
If modern man would use it, he
Could find old wisdom in his heart
And clear his vision enough to see
From start to finish and finish to start
The circle rounding perfectly.
Yes, finding one’s own wisdom…thats the key.
Thank you. It is beautiful.