"The five colors blind the eye. The five notes deafen the ear. The five tastes dull the palate. Racing and hunting madden the mind. Precious goods keep their owners in fetters."

"The greatest paradox of life is that death is the ultimate goal."

"Do not exalt the talented, so that people will not be contentious. Do not value rare treasures, so that people will not steal. Do not display what is desirable, so that people will not be confused."

"Fill your bowls to the brim and they will spill. Sharpen your blade to the sharpest and it will soon blunt."

"Fill your bowl to the brim and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife and it will blunt."