Chapter 21: Following the Dao (第21章：虛心)

孔德之容，惟道是從。
道之為物，惟恍惟惚。
惚兮恍兮，其中有象；恍兮惚兮，其中有物。
窈兮冥兮，其中有精；其精甚真，其中有信。
自古及今，其名不去，以閱眾甫。
吾何以知眾甫之狀哉？以此。
☸

Translation

The appearance of great Virtue (De) follows only the Dao.
The Dao as a thing is ethereal and elusive (Huanghu).

Elusive and ethereal! Within it are images.
Ethereal and elusive! Within it are things.
Deep and dark! Within it is Essence (Jing).
This Essence is very real; within it is Trust (Xin).

From ancient times until now, its name has never left,
Through it, one can observe the origin of all things.
How do I know the origin of all things? By this.

✦ ◆ ✦

📜 Liuren Perspective

This chapter describes the mechanism of manifestation used in Liuren Fajiao. The Dao is formless, but within its "ethereal and elusive" nature (惚恍), there are "Images" (象) and "Essence" (精).

When we visualize a deity or a talisman, we are working with these "Images." They are not mere imagination; they are the Essence of the Dao taking form. This Essence is "very real" (甚真) and contains "Trust/Signal" (信)—the reliable spiritual connection that makes the magic work.

The "Name that never leaves" refers to the eternal resonance of the Dao. By connecting with this "Ancient Beginning," the practitioner can observe and influence the "origin of all things." Our rituals are the tools to navigate this "deep and dark" realm of Essence.

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