Crossing at a ford occurs often in a man's lifetime. It means setting sail even though your friends stay in harbour, knowing the route, knowing the soundness of your ship and the favour of the day.

If you are not progressing along the true way, a slight twist in the mind can become a major twist. This must be pondered well.

If you fail to take advantage of your enemies' collapse, they may recover.

They speak of "This Dojo" and "That Dojo". They are looking for profit.

The true science of martial arts means practicing them in such a way that they will be useful at any time, and to teach them in such a way that they will be useful in all things.

It is difficult to understand the universe if you only study one planet

The primary thing when you take a sword in your hands is your intention to cut the enemy, whatever the means. Whenever you parry, hit, spring, strike or touch the enemy's cutting sword, you must cut the enemy in the same movement. It is essential to attain this. If you think only of hitting, springing, striking or touching the enemy, you will not be able actually to cut him.