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The Dao is the hidden depth of all things. |
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The treasure of the virtuous, |
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the refuge of the non-virtuous. |
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Beautiful words can be traded, |
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honorable conduct can be imposed on others. |
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The lack of virtue in people— |
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why should it be discarded? |
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Therefore the Son of Heaven is established. |
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Appointing the three high ministers, |
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though one may have a jade disk to precede the four-horse carriages, |
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it is not as good as sitting and advancing by this Way. |
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Why did the ancients prize this Way? |
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Was it not said: |
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through it one seeks and obtains, |
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and if there is guilt, can one be pardoned? |
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Therefore it is prized by all under heaven. |