義勝患則吉,患勝義則滅。
When principle wins out over circumstance, this is auspicious; when circumstance wins out over principle, destruction will occur.
五聖之謀,不如逢時;辯智明慧,不如遇世。
The schemes of the Five Sages are not as efficacious as timeliness.
Eloquence, wisdom, and quickness of mind are not as efficacious as mingling with the right elements in society.
有鄙心者,不可授便勢;有愚質者,不可予利器。
A person with a heart that is base must not be put into situations of power and convenience; a dull and stupid person must not be given sharp tools to use.
多易多敗,多言多失。
Many changes make for many failures; many words make for many mistakes.
On Conduct in Office