Chapter 36: The Principle of Reversal

The Principle of Reversal

將欲歙之，必固張之 — “To reduce it, you must first expand it.”

To make something smaller, you must first make it bigger. The extreme of expansion is the beginning of reduction.

Four Reversals

1. 欲歙之，必固張之 — To reduce → first expand
2. 欲弱之，必固強之 — To weaken → first strengthen
3. 欲廢之，必固舉之 — To abolish → first promote
4. 欲奪之，必固與之 — To take → first give

Each shows the cycle of reversal. What reaches its extreme begins to return.

Subtle Clarity

是謂微明 — “This is called subtle clarity.”

Understanding these reversals requires subtle perception. The obvious path is often the opposite of what works.

Soft Overcomes Strong

柔弱勝剛強 — “Soft and weak overcomes hard and strong.”

The Taoist paradox: what is soft and weak eventually overcomes what is hard and strong. Water wears down rock.

The Fish and the Deep Waters

魚不可脫於淵 — “The fish cannot leave the deep waters.”

The fish needs deep water to survive. Power needs its foundation to remain effective.

Not Showing the Weapons

國之利器不可以示人 — “The state’s sharp weapons cannot be shown to others.”

Keep your capabilities hidden. Showing them reveals your strategy and invites opposition.

Modern Application

We use force directly. Chapter 36 suggests: work with the principle of reversal, not against it.

Key Takeaways

• Things reverse at their extremes
• To reduce, first expand
• Soft overcomes strong
• Keep power hidden
• Understanding reversal is subtle clarity

Next: Chapter 37 — Non-Action in the World →