| 77.1.1 |
The way of heaven,
is it
just like drawing a bow? |
| 77.1.2 |
(For) those (who are) tall, (use a long bow with
slack bowstring and) press it down (when aiming).
(For) those
(who are) short, (use a short bow with taut bowstring and) raise it
(high when aiming). |
| 77.1.3 |
Those (using long bows) with surplus (energy),
decrease it (with slack bowstring).
Those (using short bows) with
insufficient (energy), supplement it (with taut
bowstring). |
| 77.2.1 |
So
the way of heaven (is to) decrease surplus and add to
insufficiency. |
| 77.2.2 |
But the human way is not so.
(They) take away
from (those with) insufficient and offer to (those with)
surplus. |
| 77.2.3 |
Who can have surplus and offer to
heaven?
Only man with Tao. |
| 77.3.1 |
This is why the sage does (things) but does not
presume (as the doer). |
| 77.3.2 |
(He) succeeds (and) achieves but does not dwell
(on his achievements). |
| 77.3.3 |
He
(just) does not desire to show his talent and
ability. |
