The river carves out the valley by flowing beneath it.

Thereby the river is the master of the valley.

In order to master people

One must speak as their servant;

In order to lead people

One must follow them.

So when the sage rises above the people,

They do not feel oppressed;

And when the sage stands before the people,

They do not feel hindered.

So the popularity of the sage does not fail,

He does not contend,

and no one contends against him.

A skillful soldier is not violent;

An able fighter does not rage;

A mighty conqueror does not give battle;

A great commander is a humble man.

You may call this pacific virtue;

Or say that it is mastery of men;

Or that it is rising to the measure of God,

Or to the stature of the ancients.

Contentment

Health or reputation:

which is held dearer?

Health or possessions:

which has more worth?

Profit or loss:

which is more troublesome?

Great love incurs great expense,

And great wealth incurs great fear,

But contentment comes at no cost.

For who knows when to stop

Does not continue into danger,

And so may long endure.