1All things are produced by the Tao, and nourished by its outflowing operation.
2They receive their forms according to the nature of each, and are completed according to the circumstances of their condition.
3Therefore all things without exception honour the Tao, and exalt its outflowing operation.
4This honouring of the Tao and exalting of its operation is not the result of any ordination, but always a spontaneous tribute.
5Thus it is that the Tao produces (all things), nourishes them, brings them to their full growth, nurses them, completes them, matures them, maintains them, and overspreads them.
6It produces them and makes no claim to the possession of them; it carries them through their processes and does not vaunt its ability in doing so; it brings them to maturity and exercises no control over them;--this is called its mysterious operation.