retire after winning meritfrom Tao Te Ching Chapter 9
功成身退|retire after winning merit
1. Literal Translation
- 功 (gōng): Achievement / Merit
- 成 (chéng): Completion / Success
- 身 (shēn): Oneself / Personal
- 退 (tuì): Withdraw / Retreat
→ “Withdraw oneself after the work is accomplished.”
2. Core Meaning
A philosophy advocating voluntary retreat from power or recognition after achieving success, to avoid excess and maintain harmony with the natural order (道, Dào).
3. Key Principles
- Avoids Overextension:
“When a task is done, step back—this is the way of Heaven.” (Implied in Ch.9)
- Continuous greed or control after success invites chaos (e.g., overflowing a cup).
- Aligns with 自然 (zìrán, “naturalness”):
- Nature’s cycles (seasons, tides) teach timely withdrawal.
- Prevents Hubris:
- Rejects clinging to power, akin to “sharpening a blade too much” (Ch.9 metaphor).
4. Historical Context
- Addressed to rulers/officials in ancient China, warning against monopolizing achievements.
- Exemplified by leaders like Fan Li (retired post-victory, avoiding political strife).
5. Modern Application
- Leadership: CEOs retiring after peak success to nurture new talent.
- Personal Growth: Letting go of ego after milestones to seek new perspectives.
6. Contrast with Western Thought
Unlike “constant growth” models, it emphasizes balance through restraint, resonating with Stoic “know when to leave the feast” (Seneca).
7. Associated Quote
“持而盈之，不如其已”
(“To keep filling a cup past its brim ensures it spills.”)
—Tao Te Ching Ch.9 (reinforcing the peril of excess).
Summary
“功成身退” is a Taoist strategy for sustainable success: achieve → acknowledge → retreat, embodying humility and alignment with nature’s flow.
Note: This structured format balances linguistic, philosophical, and practical dimensions for clarity.