World Lit Reader

Tao Te Ching · Laozi · Translated by James Legge

Chapter 18

18. 1. 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.

2. 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.

Laozi · Translated by James Legge. Digital source: Project Gutenberg, ebook 216. This reading text follows the edition used in our interactive reader.