Filling to fullness is not as good as stopping at the right moment.

Temper a sword-edge to its very sharpest, and the edge will not last long.

When gold and jade fill your hall, You will not be able to keep them safe.

To be proud with wealth and honor Is to sow seeds of one's own downfall.

Retire once your purpose is achieved，as things cycle in the natural laws.

第九章     功遂身退

持而盈之，不如其已。 揣而锐之，不可长保。 金玉满堂，莫之能守。 富贵而骄，自遗其咎。 功遂身退，天之道也。

[译文]

执着追求卓越和圆满, 不如适可而止。锋芒毕露, 毕竟不能保持长久。金银宝物充满堂屋，难以守而不失。富贵而骄奢无度，便是自招祸患。

建功立业，含藏收敛，不取功名，天道如此。