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古之善为道者，
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The ancient sages who followed the Dao, |
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非以明民，
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Did not enlighten the people, |
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将以愚之。
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But kept them unknowing. |
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民之难治，
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People become difficult to govern, |
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以其智多。
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When they have too much knowledge. |
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故以智治国，
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Rulers who govern with cleverness, |
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国之贼；
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Bring harm to the country; |
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不以智治国，
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Rulers who govern without cleverness, |
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国之福。
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Bless the nation. |
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知此两者，
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Understanding these two principles, |
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亦稽式。
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Forms a timeless pattern. |
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常知稽式，
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Consistently knowing this pattern, |
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是谓玄德，
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Is called profound virtue, |
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玄德深远；
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Profound virtue is deep and far-reaching; |
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与物反矣，
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It aligns with all things, |
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然后乃至大顺。
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And leads back to the great harmony. |