“It is better to leave a vessel unfilled, than to attempt to carry it when it is full. If you keep feeling a point that has been sharpened, the point cannot long preserve its sharpness.”

“When the work is done, and one’s name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.”

“He who stands on his tiptoes does not stand firm; he who stretches his legs does not walk (easily).”

“Hence the sage is able (in the same way) to accomplish his great achievements. It is through his not making himself great that he can accomplish them.”

“There is no calamity greater than lightly engaging in war.”

“To know and yet (think) we do not know is the highest (attainment); not to know (and yet think) we do know is a disease.”