Taoism

Chapter37— The Exercise of Government

◆ About this chapter

Chapter 37 of the Tao Te Ching, often titled 'The Exercise of Government,' explores the paradoxical efficacy of non-action in leadership and cosmic order. It argues that a ruler who refrains from imposing artificial will or excessive intervention allows the natural Tao to unfold without obstruction. Situated within the broader text's meditation on simplicity and humility, this chapter serves as a critical ethical guide for those in power, suggesting that true governance arises from stillness rather than active manipulation.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

The Tao in its regular course does nothing (for the sake of doing it), and so there is nothing which it does not do.The Day of Rest

This chapter appears in 1 cross-tradition parallel

Comparative studies that quote one or more verses from this chapter alongside passages from other traditions.

The Day of Restv1

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Chapter Discussion

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— 37 —sacredatlas.org