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Tao Te Ching - Lao Tzu - chapter 18

When the great Tao is forgotten,
Kindness and morality arise.
When wisdom and intelligence are born,
The great pretence begins.

When there is no peace within the family,
Filial piety and devotion arise.
When the country is confused and in chaos,
Loyal ministers appear.


(translation by Gia-fu Feng and Jane English)


Tao Te Ching home page    |    chapter 17    |    chapter 19