It is better to break off a thousand friendships, than to endure the sight of a single enemy.

When you see contention amongst your enemies, go and sit at ease with your friends; but when you see them of one mind, string your bow, and place stones upon the ramparts.

Liberty is of more value than any gifts; and to receive gifts is to lose it. Be assured that men most commonly seek to oblige thee only that they may engage thee to serve them.

If thou art wise, incline to truth; for truth, not the semblance, remains in its place.

It is safer to be silent than to reveal one's secret to any one, and telling him not to mention it.

Whoever acquires knowledge but does not practice it is as one who ploughs but does not sow.

Better is the sinner who hath thoughts about God, than the saint who hath only the show of sanctity.