Chapter 15: The Ancient Masters (第15章：顯德)

古之善為士者，微妙玄通，深不可識。
夫唯不可識，故強為之容：
豫焉，若冬涉川；猶焉，若畏四鄰；
儼焉，其若客；渙焉，若冰之將釋；
敦焉，其若樸；曠焉，其若谷；
渾焉，其若濁。
孰能濁以止，靜之徐清？
孰能安以久，動之徐生？
保此道者，不欲盈。夫唯不盈，故能蔽而新成。
☸

Translation

The ancient masters of the Dao were subtle, mysterious, and profound.
Their depth was beyond understanding.
Because they were beyond understanding, one can only describe their appearance:

Cautious, like crossing a frozen stream in winter;
Alert, like one fearing danger from all sides;
Reserved, like a guest in another's house;
Fluid, like melting ice;
Simple, like an uncarved block;
Open, like a vast valley;
Turbid, like muddy water.

Who can make the muddy still, so that it slowly becomes clear?
Who can make the still move, so that it slowly comes to life?

Those who follow this Dao do not seek to be full.
Because they are not full, they can be renewed when worn out.

✦ ◆ ✦

📜 Liuren Perspective

This chapter describes the behavioral standard for a master in the Liuren tradition. A true practitioner is not flashy or arrogant; they are "cautious like crossing a frozen stream." This refers to the extreme care taken in ritual execution and the handling of spiritual forces.

"Making the muddy clear through stillness" (靜之徐清) is the core of our meditation practice. By settling the "muddy" thoughts of the ego, the natural clarity of the Dao emerges. Conversely, "Making the still move" (動之徐生) describes the activation of Fa-energy from a state of deep silence.

A master never seeks to be "full" of themselves. By remaining "hollow" and "simple," they allow the lineage's power to constantly renew and flow through them.

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