Chapter 27
IndexKnow the masculine, but keep to the feminine, and become a ravine for all under heaven.
Become a ravine for all under heaven, and the eternal virtue will not depart. Return to the state of the infant.
Know the white, but keep to the black; become the model for all under heaven.
Become the model for all under heaven, and constant virtue will not falter; return to the infinite.
Know its glory, yet keep to its disgrace; become the valley for all under heaven.
Become the valley for all under heaven, and constant virtue will be sufficient; return to the uncarved block.
When the uncarved block is dispersed, it becomes vessels; when the sage uses it, it becomes officials. Thus, the great system does not cut.