Introduction

This and the previous verse mark a transition in the text. The first 37 verses focus primarily on the Dao, attaining to the Dao, and recognizing accordance with its principles. The remaining 44 verses concentrate mainly on what it means to steadfastly adhere to those principles holistically, completely, and unimpaired. As mentioned previously, the classical translation of this principle (德, dé) is “virtue.” However, I find integrity, integral, and integrous (having or being characterized by integrity) much more apt. 

Now is also a place to refresh the understanding that Daoist practice is focused on immortality, first mentioned in verse 13. The modern notion of “living on forever through our achievements” or “gone but not forgotten” is not the same. In the alchemical religious context of Daoism, Zen, and parallel Western traditions, practitioners aim to connect with the spiritual life force (Dao) while still alive. Such experience enables the transcendence of the temporal limits of the body. In some cases, practitioners attain exceptionally long life, though all know death is inevitable. The practices include strengthening the body, meditation, cultivating and harmonizing life force (气 qì), a diet of fresh, vegetarian food, and a life aligned with Natural Law. The solace of these practices is not knowing immortality through achievement but having a direct realization (while alive) of the immortal nature of our innermost being. 

Translation

One who knows others is resourceful,
  One who knows themself is brilliant.

One who conquers others has power,
  One who conquers themself is powerful.

One who knows contentment is wealthy.
One who persists has freedom.
One who does not lose themselves endures.
One who dies and is not destroyed is immortal. 

Commentary

One who knows others is resourceful,
One who knows themself is brilliant. 

It’s good to know other’s minds. It’s good to know how to navigate our environment. Studying the world around us makes us intelligent, flexible problem solvers. That’s great! 

However, such knowledge is inferior to self-knowledge. Only through understanding ourselves can we truly shine with our unique form of genius. 

Why not work toward both?