Taoism

Chapter47— Surveying What is Far-off

◆ About this chapter

Chapter 47 of the Tao Te Ching, titled 'Surveying What is Far-off,' articulates the paradoxical wisdom that true comprehension arises from internal stillness rather than external expansion. This section argues that by mastering the self and understanding the immediate, one grasps the totality of the cosmos without needing to traverse physical distances. Situated within the broader critique of aggressive action found in the text, it serves as a foundational meditation on the limits of human perception and the sufficiency of the present moment.

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

Without going outside his door, one understands all that takes place under the sky; without looking out from his window, one sees the Tao of Heaven. The farther that one goes out from himself, the less he knows.

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Chapter Discussion

Discussion

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What in this chapter surprised you, or stopped you?
Where does this passage cut against your expectation?
What questions does it raise that you don't have an answer to yet?

— 47 —sacredatlas.org