"The uncarved block, though small, is nowhere in the world inferior. If princes and kings could but hold on to it, all creatures would submit to them."

"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."

"To see things in the seed, that is genius."

"The sage wears coarse clothes and carries jewels in his bosom."

"Fame or integrity: which is more important? Money or happiness: which is more precious?"