Introduction
Lao Zi is not mincing words in this verse! It reminds me of an interaction with my teacher early in my training when he admonished me rather sharply, “Speak from, not about!”
In verse 5, we get a hint of Daoist/Confucian conflict when the function of nature is said to be “not benevolent.” This verse directly confronts what it thinks is weak practice: behavior regulated according to doctrinal values instead of proper alignment with the Dao
Weaving the Way is fundamentally an attunement to the great symphony of divine Love. It demands that we master our particular instrument, this unique individual being with various skills and talents, and harmonize with the music of life. In correct attunement, our presence is an essential thread that doesn’t stand out.
Corrective measures are only necessary when we are off-key. When we talk about how we “should” be, we're already coming undone.
Translation
When the Way is neglected,
values of charity and virtue appear.
Wisdom and understanding emerge
together with great delusion.
Devotion and love only need mentioned
when relationships are off-course.
Why speak of steadfast officials
unless the nation is in chaos?
Commentary
When the Way is neglected,
values of charity and virtue appear.
I use the terms charity and virtue here to represent the Confucian value rényì (仁义, benevolence-righteousness). The idea, simplistically summarized, can be thought of as “refrain from all that is evil, do all that is good.” This teaching is everywhere and is hard to describe as a bad idea. Lao Zi agrees, but with a twist.