Classical Text 古典文獻 · Dao De Jing 道德經
Chapter 17 — Ruling with the Dao
淳風
Part I — The Dao 上篇·道經
Original Verse
原文
太上，不知有之；
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」。
English Translation
英譯
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."
Liuren Fajiao Commentary
六壬法教注疏
In the Liuren lineage, the most powerful masters are often the most "hidden." They do not seek fame or fear. Like the "Greatest Ruler" (太上), their influence is so subtle that the results of their magic seem to happen "naturally" (我自然) to the recipient.
"Valuing words" (貴言) is essential. In Fajiao, we do not boast about our skills. The more a practitioner talks about their power, the less "trust" (faith) remains. A true master speaks little, but their Fa-intent (心法) is absolute.
When a healing or protection is successful, the master does not take credit. By allowing the recipient to feel they have overcome the obstacle themselves, the master preserves the natural order and prevents the inflation of their own ego.
Source: Dao De Jing (道德經), Chapter 17