《道德经》英译（第六十六章）

江海所以能为百谷王者，

以其善下之，

故能为百谷王。

是以圣人欲上民，

必以言下之；

欲先民，

必以身后之。

是以圣人处上而民不重，

处前而民不害。

是以天下乐推而不厌。

以其不争，

故天下莫能与之争。

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Chapter 66

The river and sea can be kings of the hundred valley streams because they are good at lying below them.

For this reason,

They can be kings of the hundred valley streams.

For this reason, too,

If the sage wants to be above the people,

in his words, he must put himself below them;

If he wishes to be before the people,

in his person, he must stand behind them.

Therefore,

He is situated in front of the people,

but they are not offended;

He is situated above the people,

but they do not consider him a burden.

All under heaven happily push him forward without wearying.

Is this not because he is without contention?

Therefore,

No one under heaven can contend with him.

（Victor H. Mair 译）