Introduction

The Text of Weaving the Virtuous Way bounces back and forth between articulating the principles of the Dao and how to live according to them. After focusing in verses 11-13 on describing perspectives that accord with the Dao, verse 14 returns to praising its mystery. Even though many of the motifs have already been presented, I find their restatement is no less evocative. 

I invite you to allow this lovely homage to life’s essential mystery to flow through and nourish you.

Translation

Vision without sight: “profound.”
Hearing without listening:  “silent.”
Holding without gaining: “formless”

Profound, silent, formless.
 The senses cannot perceive it,
   for it is ultimately one. 

One.
Yang is not clear.
Yin is not confused. 

Seeking, seeking!
 It cannot be named,
  returning again and again,
      it is empty. 

It is called the formless form,
  the empty appearance,
    the boundless. 

Following it, you’ll never see its back. 
Welcoming it, you’ll never see its face. 

Welcome what is now,
   and hold the Way of the moment. 
Knowing what led to this, 
  is called the Way’s law. 

Commentary

Writing a commentary on this verse is like trying to share the scent of a spring morning with you by smelling it with my nose. I will keep my notes here brief to underscore how strongly I believe its true meaning lies within your heart. 

One.
Yang is not clear.
Yin is not confused.