Introduction

One of my reference texts has an asterisk at the top of this verse that translates to, “This chapter speaks of the Body of the Dao; why is it in the Integrity (Dé) section?” 

Great question, Luo Yijun! 

A teaser at the end of Verse 25 states, “Weaving the Way shapes the Dao.”

We are active participants in the unfolding process of our lives, whether consciously or unconsciously. Much of meditative living involves uncovering the principles behind “mind of matter” processes and becoming proficient at utilizing those principles. 

Let’s dig in. 

Translation

Returning.
  Dao’s movement.

Softening.
Dao’s function.

All That Is
  is born through “activity”
  activity is born of “potential.”

Commentary

Returning.
  Dao’s movement. 

The language here evokes verse 25, which says:

“Uncontainable vastness, surpassing all boundaries, folding in on itself.”

“Folding in on itself” and “Returning” point to the dynamic interplay of one becoming many and many returning to the one, which we will encounter specifically in Verse 42. Such phrasing makes this all seem rather abstract, and while teasing out cosmic principles is neat, the functional lesson is in how consciousness works.

In brief, there is a moment of pure potential. This is the “one.” Visualizing it as a point, a singularity without dimension, can be helpful.

Activity happens, and the point becomes a line. A line is a two-dimensional (subject/object) thing.

A miracle happens! The subject becomes aware of itself as having the experience of an object, and a functional, dynamic triad is formed. 

That triad immediately collapses back into the point of pure potentiality while the “perfume” of the immediately previous experience lingers. 

This is the functional point. Bringing awareness and intention to how the “Self” interprets the relationship between the subject and the object determines the type and strength of the “perfume” that lingers to influence the next expansion. This process is how all the “Mind over Matter” stuff works. Logos. The power to create your reality. Etc. Meditative living training develops the capacity to influence the “perfuming” process consciously.

The whole process begins again, having folded in on itself. Like the infinity symbol expanding and reconverging at a point. Fun tidbit: the technical term for the infinity symbol is “lemniscate.”