Who can (make) the muddy water (clear)? Let it be still, and it will gradually become clear.

There is nothing more real than what cannot be seen and there is nothing more certain than what cannot be heard.

Be not ashamed of mistakes and thus make them crimes.

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.

I daily examine myself on three points:— whether, in transacting business for others, I may have been not faithful;— whether, in intercourse with friends, I may have been not sincere;— whether I may have not mastered and practised the instructions of my teacher.

One who never anticipates deceit or expects duplicity, and yet is the first to recognize such things – is that not a sage indeed?

In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of. In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of.

You will never know how sharp a sword is unless it's drawn from its sheath.

The book salesman should be honored because he brings to our attention, as a rule, the very books we need most and neglect most.

The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.

Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.

Faithfulness and sincerity are the highest things.

He who knows all the answers has not been asked all the questions.