|
太上，
|
The highest leaders are barely known by the people. |
|
下不知有之；
|
Next, the people love and praise them. |
|
其次，
|
After that, they fear them. |
|
亲而誉之；
|
And the worst, they despise them. |
|
其次，
|
Without enough trust, there is no trust. |
|
畏之；
|
True leaders act quietly. |
|
其次，
|
When their work is completed, |
|
侮之。
|
the people say, "We did it ourselves." |