This chapter compares the Dao to the drawing of a bow: lowering what is high, raising what is low, balancing extremes. The essence is that Heaven’s way redistributes without pride or effort, while human ways often do the opposite.

Original Text

天之道，其犹张弓与？

高者抑之，下者举之；

有余者损之，不足者补之。

天之道，损有余而补不足。

人之道则不然，损不足以奉有余。

孰能有余以奉天下？

唯有道者。

是以圣人为而不恃，

功成而不处，

其不欲见贤。

Interpretation

Laozi likens the Dao to a bow being drawn: the top bends down, the bottom rises up, balance is found between extremes. In the same way, the way of Heaven takes from what overflows and gives to what is lacking.

By contrast, human ways usually do the opposite: taking from those who have little to feed the excess of those who already have much. This is why inequality grows and harmony weakens.

Only those who live by Dao can hold surplus not for themselves, but to share with the world. The sage works quietly, completes tasks, yet does not cling to credit or display superiority. Balance and humility are their way.

Summary

Chapter 77 teaches that Heaven balances excess and lack, while people often deepen imbalance. The sage follows Heaven’s way, sharing without pride and serving without clinging.

Practical Insight

In daily life, this chapter reminds us to look for balance. When we have more than enough, we can give; when we succeed, we need not boast. True harmony is in leveling, not hoarding.

Published on: October 10, 2025