Dao De Jing Translations and Commentary by Peter B. Roth

Translation of Verse 1

Paths can be walked; not the eternal path.

Names can be spoken of; not the eternal name.

Non-existence is the name of the origin of Heaven and Earth.

Existence names all things’ mother.

Therefore, the eternal non-existence desire intends to manifest its essence.

The eternal existence desire intends to manifest its outer forms.

This pair, together, emerges, yet diverges in name.

“Together” implies their mystery:

A higher degree mystery of a mystery;

An entrance of all essence.

Commentary of Verse 1

Currently, this verse has no commentary.