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Chapter 22: Divine Wholeness

Remain yielding to become whole a
Remain bending to become straight
Remain empty to become filled

The weary will be renewed b
The poor will receive
The abundance will be confused

Therefore, the Master embraces Oneness c
To be an example for the world

Because He does not exalt himself d
He shines forth
Because He does not look to justify himself e
He becomes distinguished
Because He does not boast of himself f
He gains merit
Because He does not glorify himself
He endures
Because He does not contend e
He cannot be contended against

The ancients said, “Remain yielding to become whole”
Were they speaking empty words?

Become whole and you will return to harmony a

a Psalm 37:7-24; Luke 3:4-6; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 11:28-30; b Isaiah 40:31; c John 17:22-23; John 17:11; d Matthew 23:12; e Luke 16:15; Matthew 27:11-26; f John 17:1-9; John 8:54-55.

In Chapter 22 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching, the concept of divine wholeness is explored through the paradox of yielding to become whole, bending to become straight, and remaining empty to be filled. This reflects the Christian teaching that true strength and fulfillment are found in humility, selflessness, and dependence on God. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of divine wholeness, embraced these principles throughout His life. He humbled Himself, even to the point of death on the cross, in order to accomplish the will of the Father (Philippians 2:5-11). By yielding, He embodied the fullness of God’s plan for salvation, showing that through surrender and humility, one can experience God’s power and presence.

The idea that “the weary will be renewed” and “the poor will receive” echoes the teachings of Jesus, who promised rest for the weary (Matthew 11:28-30) and elevated the poor in spirit (Luke 6:20). This divine reversal is central to the Christian faith: through weakness, God’s strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9). When the world exalts the powerful and the wealthy, Christ’s kingdom values the humble, the meek, and the broken-hearted, offering them peace and grace.

The Master in this passage is called to embrace Oneness, to be an example for the world, which is reflected in Jesus’ life as the Son of God who perfectly united humanity with the Father (John 17:22-23). His example of selfless living, not seeking to exalt Himself but allowing God to exalt Him, demonstrates the divine principle of humility and service. Jesus often taught that those who humble themselves will be exalted (Matthew 23:12), showing that greatness in the kingdom of God is not measured by self-promotion but by self-sacrifice.

Jesus’ refusal to justify Himself or boast of His actions is a key aspect of His character. He lived in perfect obedience to the Father, even when falsely accused or misunderstood, and He did not seek to defend Himself (Matthew 27:11-26). His commitment to endure and not contend with others aligns with the passage’s teaching that “He cannot be contended against.” This reflects the Christian truth that ultimate victory comes not through force or conflict but through the power of love, humility, and obedience to God’s will.

The chapter concludes with the ancient wisdom that by remaining yielding, one becomes whole, which is a profound expression of the Christian path. By surrendering our desires, ambitions, and self-will to God, we are made whole and restored to the divine harmony that existed before the Fall. Jesus’ life and sacrifice restore this wholeness, offering reconciliation with God and with others (Romans 5:10). Therefore, through humility, yielding, and embracing God’s plan, believers find the wholeness and peace that leads to eternal life.

Together, let us restore the truth, renew our spirits, and embrace the transformative call to holiness. Visit www.builtforgreatness.com