Human nature is evil, and goodness is caused by intentional activity.

When you concentrate on agriculture and industry and are frugal in expenditures, Heaven cannot impoverish your state.

Those whose character is mean and vicious will rouse others to animosity against them.

Sacrifices are concerned with the feelings of devotion and longing.

Sacrifice is a state of mind in which our thoughts turn with longing [toward Heaven, the Ancestors], It is the supreme expression of loyalty, love, and respect.

Quarreling over food and drink, having neither scruples nor shame, not knowing right from wrong, not trying to avoid death or injury, not fearful of greater strength or of greater numbers, greedily aware only of food and drink - such is the bravery of the dog and boar.

If the gentleman has ability, he is magnanimous, generous, tolerant, and straightforward, through which he opens the way to instruct others.