The Superior Man is all-embracing and not partial. The inferior man is partial and not all-embracing.

Do not answer the person whose questions are vile. Do not question a person whose answers are vile.

If names be not correct, language is not in accordance with the truth of things.

If you would govern a state of a thousand chariots (a small-to-middle-size state), you must pay strict attention to business, be true to your word, be economical in expenditure and love the people.

Be not ashamed of mistakes and thus make them crimes.

In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of. In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of.

Silence is a true friend who never betrays.