The ancient masters of the Way
did not use it to enlighten the people,
but to keep them simple.

The people are difficult to govern
because they are too clever.
Therefore, to rule through cleverness
is to rob the nation.
To rule without cleverness
is to bless the nation.

To understand these two paths
is to hold the true pattern.
To hold this pattern
is to embody profound virtue.
Profound virtue is deep and far-reaching;
it moves in return with all things,
and so arrives at great harmony.