1. 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.

2. when gold and jade fill the hall, their possessor cannot keep them safe. when wealth and honours lead to arrogancy, this brings its evil on itself. when the work is done, and one's name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of heaven.

持而盈之，不如其已；

揣而銳之，不可長保。

金玉滿堂，莫之能守；

富貴而驕，自遺其咎。

功遂身退，天之道也。

【译文】

执持盈满，不如适可而止。锋芒毕露，难以长久。金玉满堂，谁能守藏？富贵而骄横，自埋祸殃。功成身退，是最应该奉行的行为准则。