Tao Te Ching Chapter 36
1. Classical Chinese Original
将欲歙之，必固张之；
将欲弱之，必固强之；
将欲废之，必固兴之；
将欲夺之，必固与之。
是谓微明。
柔弱胜刚强。
鱼不可脱于渊，国之利器不可以示人。
2. Pinyin Transcription
Jiāng yù xī zhī, bì gù zhāng zhī;
Jiāng yù ruò zhī, bì gù qiáng zhī;
Jiāng yù fèi zhī, bì gù xīng zhī;
Jiāng yù duó zhī, bì gù yǔ zhī.
Shì wèi wēi míng.
Róu ruò shèng gāng qiáng.
Yú bù kě tuō yú yuān, guó zhī lì qì bù kě yǐ shì rén.
3. Structural Analysis
Section 1: The Paradoxical Strategy
- Original:
“To contract, first expand;
To weaken, first strengthen;
To overthrow, first promote;
To take, first give.” - Interpretation:
- Reverse Methodology: The Tao operates through opposition
- Natural Cycles: All extremes contain their opposites (Yin-Yang principle)
Section 2: The Wisdom of Subtlety
- Original: 是谓微明。
- Literal: “This is called subtle wisdom.”
- Interpretation:
- 微明 (wēi míng): The hidden intelligence of non-confrontation
Section 3: The Power of Softness
- Original: 柔弱胜刚强。
- Literal: “The soft and weak overcome the hard and strong.”
- Interpretation:
- Water Metaphor: Echoes Chapter 78’s “water defeats stone”
- Strategic Advantage: Flexibility outlasts brute force
Section 4: Two Cardinal Warnings
- Original: 鱼不可脱于渊
- “Fish should not leave deep waters”
- Meaning: Stay rooted in your source (the Tao)
- Original: 国之利器不可以示人
- “A nation’s sharp weapons should not be displayed”
- Meaning: True power remains concealed (cf. nuclear deterrence theory)
4. Key Concepts
| Chinese | Pinyin | English | Philosophical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 微明 | wēi míng | Subtle wisdom | Indirect perception of truth |
| 柔弱胜刚强 | róu ruò shèng gāng qiáng | Softness conquers hardness | Non-resistance principle |
| 利器 | lì qì | Sharp weapons | Coercive power (to be hidden) |
| 渊 | yuān | Deep pool | Source of true strength |
5. Comparative Commentary
- Sun Tzu Parallel: “Appear weak when you are strong” (Art of War)
- Modern Physics: Every action has equal reaction (Newton’s 3rd Law)
- Political Science: Deterrence theory vs. saber-rattling
6. Plain-English Summary
This chapter teaches:
- Reverse Psychology: Achieve goals through opposite actions
- Hidden Intelligence: True wisdom works invisibly
- Soft Power: Gentleness ultimately prevails
- Two Rules:
- Stay connected to your source
- Never reveal your full strength
Discussion Prompt:
How does this apply to modern negotiation tactics?
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