In ancient times, those who wished to illuminate the world with virtue first brought order to their nations. Wishing to order well their nations, they first harmonized their families. Wishing to harmonize their families, they first cultivated themselves. Wishing to cultivate themselves, they first rectified their minds. Those who wished to rectify their minds first made their intentions sincere.

There is no body but eats and drinks. But they are few who can distinguish flavors.

Of neighborhoods, benevolence is the most beautiful. How can the man be considered wise who when he had the choice does not settle in benevolence.

The highest kind of man is the one who does before talking and practices what he professes.

What you know, you know, what you don't know, you don't know. This is true wisdom.

The man who is master of himself drinks gravely and wisely.

Do not treat others as you yourself would not be treated.