39th Chapter
From ancient times, for those who live in Tao,
There is nothing between man and Tao, like the sky (heaven) is clear.
They live in the principles of Tao, so everything is in harmony and peace.
They receive divine inspiration, and the connection with Tao is keen.
Their heart is like a valley flowing with living water from Tao, so full of contentment.
Their life is vivified by the energy of Tao and becomes creative.
The ruler who lives in Tao will set an example for his people of righteousness.

Therefore, if man has been misled about Tao by those who teach it, then it is like heaven is covered by clouds, and man and Tao have been split.
If the principles of Tao have not been applied by the leader and the harmony among men is lost, then his people will rise up against him.
If man cannot receive divine inspiration, the divine spirit of man will gradually disappear.
If the heart of man can’t receive the living water from Tao, it is like a valley with no water flowing in it, then his inner life will be withered.
If a life doesn’t have the vitality from Tao, nothing will be created, and it will gradually die.
If the ruler cannot set an example of the righteousness of Tao for his people, then his power and dominion will be overturned.

Humbleness is the root of nobility and lowliness is the foundation of loftiness.
Therefore, a noble ruler gives himself a humble title, such as an orphan, solitary, or a poor one.
This shows his humbleness, doesn’t it?
If a leader tries to gain the reputation of nobility and loftiness, then he does not have that reputation.
Therefore, a noble man doesn’t seek outward beauty like a jewel, he prefers to keep his inner beauty hidden like jade hidden in a rock.

Implications from the Holy Books

Say: Deliver your souls, O people, from the bondage of self, and purify them from all attachment to anything besides Me. Remembrance of Me cleanseth all things from defilement, could ye but perceive it. Say: Were all created things to be entirely divested of the veil of worldly vanity and desire, the Hand of God would in this Day clothe them, one and all, with the robe “He doeth whatsoever He willeth in the kingdom of creation,” that thereby the sign of His sovereignty might be manifested in all things. Exalted then be He, the Sovereign Lord of all, the Almighty, the Supreme Protector, the All-Glorious, the Most Powerful. ── Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings From the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh 136

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