Chapter 73
第七十三章
He whose boldness appears in his daring (to do wrong, in defiance of the laws) is put to death;
勇于敢则杀,
he whose boldness appears in his not daring (to do so) lives on.
勇于不敢则活。
Of these two cases the one appears to be advantageous, and the other to be injurious.
此两者,或利或害。
But When Heaven's anger smites a man, Who the cause shall truly scan?
天之所恶,孰知其故?
On this account the sage feels a difficulty (as to what to do in the former case).
是以圣人犹难之。
It is the way of Heaven not to strive, and yet it skilfully overcomes;
天之道,不争而善胜,
not to speak, and yet it is skilful in (obtaining a reply; does not call, and yet men come to it of themselves.
不应而善应,不召而自来,
Its demonstrations are quiet, and yet its plans are skilful and effective.
繟然而善谋。
The meshes of the net of Heaven are large; far apart, but letting nothing escape.
天网恢恢,疏而不失。