Translation
Why can rivers and seas be the kings of all waters?
Because they know how to position themselves below them.
This is why they can be the kings of all waters.
Thus, when the sage desires to be above the people, he must, with his words, place himself below them.
When he desires to be ahead of the people, he must, with his person, place himself behind them.
Thus, the sage is placed above all, yet he is not a burden to the people; he is placed ahead of all, yet the people do not suffer from it.
Thus, all under heaven delight in promoting him and never tire of it.
Because he does not contend, no one in the world can contend with him.
