【原文】夫抟国不在敦古，理世不在善攻，霸王不在成典。夫举失而国危，刑过而权倒，谋易而祸反，计得而强信，功得而名从，权重而令行，固其数也。《霸言》

【汉解】掌握国家不在于敦敬古道，治世不在于精通旧事，成王成霸不在于抄袭典故。举措失当国家就会危险，错过形势权力就会倾倒，谋事轻率则招祸，计划得宜则发挥强力，功得则名誉随之而来，权重则命令容易推行，这些都是规律性。

【英译】Now, control of a state does not lie merely in paying respect to tradition. Bringing order to a generation does not lie merely in being skilled in attack. Becoming a lord protector or king does not lie merely in perfecting regulations. Indeed, should their ventures fail, their states will be endangered. If their punishments are excessive, their political power will be toppled. If their stratagems are carelessly contrived, disasters will result. However, if their calculations are accurate, their strength will be reliable. If their achievements are real, fame will follow. If their political power is taken seriously, their orders will be carried out. Such is the grand scheme for ensuring security.