Alas for spiritual practice—it must not be put off; when the great limit arrives, regret comes too late.
Quickly step back and learn to be yielding; go along with square or round, long or short.
Keep awareness present and guard against danger; in movement take stillness, relying on the sword of wisdom.
To refine your nature, give up the will to win; never dare to show off your abilities before others.
Selfishness must be removed, faults must be reduced; always be willing to take a loss, and heaven will send no punishment.
When that creditor glares at you, quickly bow your head, and your heart will be at ease.
Let him insult you, let him belittle you—it is like drinking a few bowls of cool water.
Your face does not change, your breath does not pant; the fire of the heart descends and the light turns back.
When the beating and scolding are done, the account is settled; principal and interest are paid in full, not a bit short.
When the matter is over, the heart is not troubled; this is the true proof of refining one's nature.
When ignorance is exhausted and sin and suffering are paid in full, turn back and do not meddle in others' affairs.
Give up the bag of skin, disregard your face; shut the six gates tight and light the lamp of the heart.
Seek out an enlightened teacher, go and learn to be idle; whether dirty or clean, pay it no mind at all.
Things outside the body, do not set your eyes on; wine, sex, wealth, and anger, never be stained by them.
Do not speak of others' strengths, do not talk of their shortcomings; cut through the world of red dust with a single stroke.
Through all twelve double hours, let your intention not scatter; when the heart is one with its form, the true nature appears.
Value accumulating virtue, and demons will keep away of themselves; when merit and practice are complete, you attain what is so of itself.