By inconsistency and frivolity we stray from the Way and show ourselves to be beginners. In this we do much harm.

Purity is something that cannot be attained except by piling effort upon effort.

Covetousness, anger and foolishness are things to sort out well. When bad things happen in the world, if you look at them comparatively, they are not unrelated to these three things.

It is better not to become acquainted with men about whom you have formerly had doubts. No matter what you do, they will be people by whom you will be tripped up or taken in.

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

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.

The end is important in all things.