If a wise man behaves prudently, how can he be overcome by his enemies? Even a single man, by right action, can overcome a host of foes.

With gifts, you may gather your enemies about you. When giving nothing, even your own family will leave.

Great affection is often the cause of violent animosity. The quarrels of men often arise from too great a familiarity.

Much talking is the cause of danger. Silence is the means of avoiding misfortune. The talkative parrot is shut up in a cage. Other birds, without speech, fly freely about.

By depending on the great, The small may rise high. See: the little plant ascending the tall tree Has climbed to the top.

Even in decline, a virtuous man increases the beauty of his behavior. A burning stick, though turned to the ground, has its flame drawn upwards.

When a broken tank is filled with water, It certainly will leak on every side. Weak men who grow rich Seldom leave an inheritance.