DAO DE JING

Chapter 37

Translation by K Ellis

The Way rests in non-action,
yet nothing is left undone.
Should kings and lords uphold this path,
the ten thousand things will unfold naturally.

If, in this unfolding, desires arise,
I will calm them with the nameless uncarved block.
This nameless uncarved block
will bring freedom from desires.

Without desire, there is stillness,
and the world returns to its own balance.

Translation © 2026 K Ellis. All rights reserved.