📖 Overview
This chapter advocates "letting things be" (在宥) — allowing the world to take its natural course without interference. It opens with a dialogue between the Yellow Emperor and Guangchengzi, who lives on top of a mountain in perfect stillness.
The Yellow Emperor asks for advice on governance. Guangchengzi replies: you have already ruined the world by trying to manage it. The clouds rain without being told; the sun shines without being commanded. If you want to govern well, stop governing. Let the people be — they will find their own way.
🏮 Famous Stories & Parables
🏮 Guangchengzi Teaches the Yellow Emperor
The Yellow Emperor climbs a mountain to seek wisdom from the sage Guangchengzi. He asks: 'How should I govern?' Guangchengzi replies: 'You have already ruined the world by trying to manage it. Leave things alone. The clouds rain without orders. The sun shines without commands. Let the people be.'