其次,親而譽之;
其次,畏之;
其次,侮之。
信不足焉,有不信焉。
悠兮,其貴言。
功成事遂,百姓皆謂:「我自然」。
Translation
The greatest ruler is barely known by the people.
The next best is loved and praised.
The next is feared.
The next is despised.
When there is a lack of trust, there is no trust.
The great ruler is reserved and values his words.
When his work is done and his mission accomplished,
The people all say, "We did it ourselves."