In this world, there is nothing softer or thinner than water. But to compel the hard and unyielding, it has no equal. That the weak overcomes the strong, that the hard gives way to the gentle - this everyone knows. Yet no one asks accordingly.

When the hares have all been caught, the hunting dogs are cooked.

Those who know it do not speak about it. Those who speak about it do not know it.

It is better not to make merit a matter of reward Lest people conspire and contend.

Filling life exceedingly is called ominous.

The sage regards things as difficult, and thereby avoids difficulty.

Holding on to the weak is called strength.