The noble must make humility his root.

To consider this desirable would be to delight in the slaughter of men; and he who delights in the slaughter of men cannot get his will in the kingdom.

A vessel is formed from a lump of clay with care, however, it is the empty space within the vessel that makes it useful.

When the palace is magnificent, the fields are filled with weeds, and the granaries are empty.

Only I am clumsy, like drifting on the waves of the sea, without direction.

Rushing into action, you fail. Trying to grasp things, you lose them. Forcing a project to completion, you ruin what was almost ripe.

Because he (the Sage) demands no honor, he will never be dishonored.