Bahá’í Explorations

This passage from the Tao Te Ching by Lao-tzu reflects the profound philosophy of selflessness and humility that is central to Taoist thought. The sage, by placing their own needs and desires last, paradoxically finds themselves in a position of prominence. This is because true leadership and influence come from serving others and prioritizing the collective good over individual gain. By treating their own person as foreign, the sage transcends ego and personal ambitions, which ultimately leads to their preservation and enduring impact. This concept encourages a life of balance, where one’s actions are guided by the greater harmony of the universe rather than personal advancement. In essence, it suggests that by relinquishing control and personal desires, one gains a deeper, more meaningful connection with the world.

Therefore the sage puts his own person last, and yet it is found in the foremost place; he treats his person as if it were foreign to him, and yet that person is preserved.


Lao-tzu, Tao Te Ching, 39
https://oceanlibrary.com/link/W8Rb2/tao-te-ching_lao-tzu/

Let your vision be world-embracing…” — Bahá’u’lláh