When people do not dread authorities, then a greater dread descends.

For all things difficult to acquire, the intelligent man works with perseverance.

The words of truth are always paradoxical. To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.

Holding on to the weak is called strength.

The reason why rivers and seas are able to be lords over a hundred mountain streams, is that they know how to keep below them. That is why they are able to reign over all the mountain streams.

Gentleness brings victory to him who attacks, and safety to him who defends. Those whom Heaven would save, it fences round with gentleness.

A skillful commander is not overbearing. A skillful fighter does not become angry. A skillful conqueror does not compete with people. One who is skillful in using men puts himself below them. This is called the strength to use men. This is called matching Heaven, The highest principle of old.