Chapter 15
第十五章
The skilful masters (of the Tao) in old times, with a subtle and exquisite penetration,
古之善为士者，微妙玄通，
comprehended its mysteries, and were deep (also) so as to elude men's knowledge.
深不可识。
As they were thus beyond men's knowledge, I will make an effort to describe of what sort they appeared to be.
夫唯不可识。故强为之容：
Shrinking looked they like those who wade through a stream in winter;
豫兮，若冬涉川；
irresolute like those who are afraid of all around them;
犹兮，若畏四邻；
grave like a guest (in awe of his host);
俨兮，其若客；
evanescent like ice that is melting away;
涣兮，若冰之将释；

unpretentious like wood that has not been fashioned into anything;
孰兮，其若朴；
vacant like a valley, and dull like muddy water.
旷兮，其若谷；浑兮，其若浊。
Who can (make) the muddy water (clear)?
孰能浊以止，
Let it be still, and it will gradually become clear.
静之徐清？
Who can secure the condition of rest?
孰能安以久，
Let movement go on, and the condition of rest will gradually arise.
动之徐生？
They who preserve this method of the Tao do not wish to be full (of themselves).
保此道者不欲盈，
It is through their not being full of themselves that they can afford to seem worn and not appear new and complete.
夫唯不盈，故能敝而新成。