By bringing shame to a person, how could one expect to make him a better man?

It is said that what is called "the spirit of an age" is something to which one cannot return. That this spirit gradually dissipates is due to the world's coming to an end. For this reason, although one would like to change today's world back to the spirit of one hundred years or more ago, it cannot be done. Thus it is important to make the best out of every generation.

It is better to have some unhappiness while one is still young, for if a person does not experience some bitterness, his disposition will not settle down.

When confronted with two alternatives, life and death, one is to choose death without hesitation.

Nothing is impossible in this world. Firm determination, it is said, can move heaven and earth. Things appear far beyond one's power, because one cannot set his heart on any arduous project due to want of strong will.

Light matters should be dealt with seriously. Serious matters should be dealt with lightly.

The saying 'the arts aid the body' is for samurai of other regions. For samurai of the Nabeshima clan the arts bring ruin to the body.