Chapter 51

All things are produced by the Tao and nourished by its outflowing power. They take their forms according to their own natures and are completed according to their circumstances. That is why every thing, without exception, honors the Tao and exalts its outflowing power.

This honoring of the Tao and exalting of its power is not commanded by anyone; it is always a spontaneous tribute.

So the Tao produces all things, nourishes them, brings them to full growth, tends them, completes them, matures them, sustains them, and shelters them.

It produces them but claims no ownership of them; it carries them through their development but does not boast of its ability; it brings them to maturity but exercises no control over them—this is called its mysterious power.