17 太上 不知有之

老子道德經第十七章

太上　不知有之
其次　親而譽之
其次　畏之
其次　侮之
信不足焉　有不信焉 　
悠兮其貴言　功成事遂
百姓皆謂　「我自然」

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SEVENTEEN

The very highest is barely known by men.
Then comes that which they know and love.
Then that which is feared.
Then that which is despised.

He who does not trust enough will not be trusted.

When actions are performed
Without unnecessary speech.
People say, "We did it!"

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17.

Of anything, that includes anyone, any idea, any place, any thing,
The best can be merely sensed;
The good are admired and wanted;
The bad are feared and avoided.
The worst are simply despised.

The natural deeds are done without suspicion,
Without effort,
Without words.