1. It is called history by describing things, and it is called scripture by speaking of Tao.

The translation is called history if it is recorded with facts, and it is called classics if it is recorded with principles.

2. One must grind on things before he can stand firm; only then can he be still and still, and be still and still.

The translator must hone his work in order to truly stand firm; only then can he be able to be stable in stillness and stable in movement.

3. Holding on to ambition is like heartache. When you are focused on pain, you have no time to gossip or meddle in other people's business.

Translation: Holding on to one's ideals is like heartache. When you are focused on pain, how can you have time to gossip and meddle in other people's business? When good thoughts arise, you know them and then fill them; when evil thoughts arise, you know them and then curb them.

4. Sages are also students of knowledge, and everyone is also a student of knowledge.

Translation Sages also understand the truth through learning, and everyone is born with the instinct to understand the truth.

5. When discussing studies with friends, you must be humble and lenient.

When discussing knowledge with friends, you must be gentle and humble, and get along with them in a tolerant manner.