天之道，损有余而补不足；人之道则不然，损不足以奉有余。
释义Explanation
这句话对比天道与人道的差异：自然法则倾向于平衡，多余的会被削减，不足的会得到补充；但人类社会却常常相反，从匮乏者那里取走资源，去供奉已经丰盈的人。老子以此提醒人们反思分配正义与制度设计，倡导效法天道，节制过度的占有与掠夺，让社会回归平衡与和谐。
This passage contrasts the Way of Heaven with the way of human society. Heaven's law tends toward balance: it reduces what is excessive and replenishes what is lacking. Human society, however, often does the opposite—taking from those who have little to give to those who already have much. Laozi uses this contrast to critique unjust distribution and to urge a return to a more equitable, sustainable order modeled on the natural balance of Heaven. In modern terms, it is a call to examine how systems may perpetuate inequality and to realign them with fairness.
使用场景Usage
在讨论贫富差距、税收政策或资源配置时，这句话可以点出现实中“穷者愈穷、富者愈富”的马太效应，提醒管理者和公众：健康的社会应向天道学习，建立更公平的调节机制，避免资源过度集中。
In modern discussions of wealth inequality, tax policy, or resource allocation, this quote illuminates the 'Matthew effect'—the poor get poorer and the rich get richer. It encourages leaders and citizens to emulate the balancing principle of Heaven by creating fairer distribution mechanisms, preventing resources from becoming too concentrated, and addressing systemic injustice.