The skillful traveller leaves no traces of his wheels.

Not praising the deserving prevents envy.

When many people are killed, they should be mourned and lamented. Those who are victorious in war should follow the rites of funerals.

When they lose their sense of awe, people turn to religion. When they no longer trust themselves, they begin to depend upon authority. Therefore the Master steps back so that people won't be confused. He teaches without a teaching, so that people will have nothing to learn.

The wise trusts not only to his physical eyes - thus he can see clearly.

I do not concern myself with gods and spirits either good or evil nor do I serve any.

The more prohibitions there are, the poorer the people will be. The more laws are promulgated, the more thieves and bandits there will be.