Governing a great nation is like cooking a small fish, too much handling will spoil it.

Do not make them (people) weary at their work. If you do not make them weary, they will not be weary of you.

He who has little will receive. He who has much will be embarrassed.

Better stop short than fill to the brim. Oversharpen the blade, and the edge will soon blunt. Amass a store of gold and jade, and no one can protect it.

He who is able to conquer others is powerful; he who is able to conquer himself is more powerful.

Can you care for the people and rule the country and not be cunning?

One cannot reflect in streaming water. Only those who know internal peace can give it to others.