The Great Vessel takes long to complete.

Ordinary men hate solitude. But the Master makes use of it, embracing his aloneness, realizing he is one with the whole universe.

To bear the country's disgrace is to rule the shrines of soil and grain. To bear the country's misfortunes is to be the king of the world.

There is no illusion great than fear.

Who is there who can make muddy waters clear? But if allowed to remain still, it will gradually clear itself.

They can see their neighbors. Roosters and dogs can be heard from there. Still, they will age and die without visiting one another.

He who overcomes others has force; he who overcomes himself is strong.