Daodejing Chapter 23 breakdown: A whirlwind and a rainstorm

Chapter 23 of the Daodejing draws on analogies from nature to encourage you to reflect on the transient nature of existence and the importance of immersing yourself in the flow of the Dao to face the ever-changing circumstances that you encounter in your life.

Section 1
Nature rarely talks.
A whirlwind
Does not last all morning.
A rainstorm
Does not last all day.
Why is that?
Heaven and earth.
If heaven and earth
Cannot make them last,
How can man do so?

The chapter begins by using the examples of a whirlwind and rainstorm to highlight the transient nature of phenomena in the world. By pointing out that even powerful natural forces like tempests and cloudbursts are temporary, the text suggests that impermanence is an inherent part of the natural order. The rhetorical question asking why that is leads to the acknowledgment that if even heaven and earth cannot make these phenomena last, then it is beyond human capability to do so.

Some commentators also see the opening lines as a warning to be sparing with words because, particularly when spoken in anger, they can resemble the violence of a heavy storm. Better to remain calm and silent like the Dao and patient and resilient like heaven and earth.

Section 2
To practice the Dao,
Is to be at one with the Dao.
To possess inner power
Is to be at one with the power.
To acknowledge failure,
Is to be at one with failure.
When you are at one with the Dao,
The Dao gladly embraces you.
When you are at one with the power,
The power gladly embraces you.
When you are at one with failure,
Failure gladly embraces you.

The only way to understand and practice the Dao is to align with its flow and become part of it. This alignment brings with it a sense of belonging and acceptance, as the Dao “gladly embraces” anyone who becomes part of it.

The same principle applies to all other aspects of existence, including even failure. Acknowledging failure does not mean that you are happy about it, but a recognition that you accept it as part of the ebb and flow of life. Just as you should not get carried away by success, you should not allow yourself to be depressed by failure.

Section 3
Lack of trust
Produces lack of trust.

The final lines of the chapter speak to the theme of reciprocity, suggesting that your attitudes and behaviours are reflected back by the world. If you are distrustful of others, they will be distrustful of you. In other words, the values and attitudes that you embody and project are often the same as the ones that you receive in return.

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Daodejing Chapter 23: nature rarely talks