道可道，非常道；名可名，非常名。无名天地之始，有名万物之母。故常无欲，以观其妙；常有欲，以观其徼。此两者同出而异名，同谓之玄，玄之又玄，众妙之门。
The Dao that can be spoken is not the eternal Dao.
The name that can be named is not the eternal name.
The nameless is the beginning of heaven and earth.
The named is the mother of ten thousand things.
Ever desireless, one can see the mystery.
Ever desiring, one can see the manifestations.
These two spring from the same source but differ in name;
this appears as darkness.
Darkness within darkness.
The gate to all mystery.
This chapter sets the tone for the entire Dao De Jing, emphasising the limitations of language and the ineffable nature of the Dao 道. The Tao is the underlying principle of the universe, beyond human understanding or description. It is nameless, formless, and infinite, the source of all that exists.
The chapter then introduces the idea that desire and attachment are obstacles to understanding the Dao. When we are free from desire, we can see the mystery of the universe and connect with the Dao. When we are consumed by desire, we only see the surface-level manifestations of reality and remain ignorant of the deeper truths. This chapter reminds us of the futility of excessive striving and the endless pursuit of material possessions and status. The accumulation of wealth and power ultimately lead to discontentment and spiritual emptiness. Thus, the scripture invites us to simplify our lives, embrace humility, and cultivate inner virtues such as compassion, moderation, and simplicity. It is through the cultivation of these qualities that we can attune ourselves to the rhythm of the Dao and achieve true harmony with the world around us.
The chapter then concludes with the idea that the mystery of the Dao lies in darkness, not light. This darkness is not a negative concept but rather a state of unknowing that is essential to accessing the true nature of the universe. It beckons us to go beyond the limitations of language and rationality, inviting us to embrace the mystery and spontaneity of the Dao. By aligning ourselves with its principles, we can discover a profound sense of harmony, peace, and fulfilment. It is a call to simplify our lives, let go of excessive striving, and cultivate inner virtues.
