Filling all the way to the brim is not as good as halting in time.

A terrace nine stories high begins with a pile of earth.

Those who know when to halt are unharmed.

People are difficult to rule, because of their knowledge.

People take death lightly. They expect too much of life. That is why people take death lightly.

All things in nature work silently. They come into being and possess nothing. They fulfill their function and make no claim. All things alike do their work, and then we see them subside. When they have reached their bloom, each returns to its origin. . . . This reversion is an eternal law. To know that law is wisdom.

When many people are killed, they should be mourned and lamented. Those who are victorious in war should follow the rites of funerals.