Religion
Chapter 18
Translated by James Legge (1891) · From The Tao Teh King (1891)
When the Great Tao (Way or Method) ceased to be observed, benevolence and righteousness came into vogue. (Then) appeared wisdom and shrewdness, and there ensued great hypocrisy.
When harmony no longer prevailed throughout the six kinships, filial sons found their manifestation; when the states and clans fell into disorder, loyal ministers appeared.
Codex Note
Prose translation of a largely rhymed original, with occasional rhymed renderings by Legge; words in parentheses are his supplied additions.
Cite this poem
MLA
Laozi (Lao Tzu). “Chapter 18.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/laozi/17/.
Chicago
Laozi (Lao Tzu). “Chapter 18.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/laozi/17/.
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