15th Chapter
A man’s wisdom is unfathomable when he follows Tao well.
Because what is in his heart can’t be understood with a limited mind, we can only describe in a limited way from what has been observed.

He is watchful, like he walks on a winter stream.
He stays aware of what he is doing as one stays alert to not cause the irritation of his neighbor.
He is respectful to others, like a guest respects his host.
He acts mildly, as the gentle flow of melting ice.
He is truthful, as natural material without adding artificial things.
He is open-minded like a valley open at both ends for things to flow through.
He lives simply and sustains his living like everyone else as if he were no different from anybody.
Who can calm a situation so people can see reality clearly?
Who can make those who are idle to move, and gradually show their vitality of life?
He who holds fast to the Tao is always carful and avoids complacency
Because he is not complacent, his mind is constantly renewed and is able to continue to progress.

Implications from the Holy Books

The fear of God hath ever been a sure defense and a safe stronghold for all the peoples of the world. It is the chief cause of the protection of mankind, and the supreme instrument for its preservation. ─ Bahá’u’lláh, Words of Paradise

We have admonished Our loved ones to fear God, a fear which is the fountainhead of all goodly deeds and virtues. It is the commander of the hosts of justice in the city of Bahá. Happy the man that hath entered the shadow of its luminous standard, and laid fast hold thereon. ─ Bahá’u’lláh, Splendors

Admonish men to fear God. By God! Through it have the cities of men’s hearts been opened throughout the ages and centuries, and the standards of ascendancy and triumph raised above all other standards. ─ Bahá’u’lláh, Splendors

…for the fear of God impelleth man to hold fast to that which is good, and shun all evil. ─ Bahá’u’lláh, Splendors

The essence of wisdom is the fear of God, the dread of His scourge and punishment, and the apprehension of His justice and decree. ─ Bahá’u’lláh, Words of Wisdom

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