Chapter 3 - Empty The Heart's Mind

We do not compete,
When we don't hold the wise on a pedestal.
We do not steal,
When we don't see worth.
We do not desire,
When we don't distinguish what is desirable.

Thus the policy of a true Daoist would:
Empty our heart's mind,
Ensure we are never hungry,
Weaken our desire to compete,
Strengthen our spirit and body.

When we have nothing to know,
Nothing to desire,
It will dampen those who have.

Letting no action be all action;
Is the policy that governs all.

不尚賢，使民不爭；不貴難得之貨，使民不為盜；不見可欲，使民心不亂。 是以圣人之治，虛其心，實其腹，弱其志，強其骨。常使民無知無欲。使夫智者不敢為也。為無為，則無不治。