Tokugawa Ieyasu

Unified Japan, Tokugawa shogunate

Early Modern influential 87 sayings

Sayings by Tokugawa Ieyasu

If you want to know what a man is truly like, give him power.

Early 17th century — A cynical insight into human nature, attributed to him.
Controversial Unverifiable

Patience is the key to all things.

Early 17th century — A widely cited quote, reflecting his strategic patience in achieving his goals.
Controversial Unverifiable

The strongest bond is that which is forged in adversity.

Early 17th century — A reflection on the strength of loyalty and alliances formed during difficult times, attributed to h…
Controversial Unverifiable

One must always be prepared for the unexpected.

Early 17th century — A strategic maxim attributed to him, emphasizing foresight and preparedness.
Controversial Unverifiable

Govern the country by laws, not by men.

Early 17th century — A principle attributed to him, reflecting his establishment of a stable legal framework for the Toku…
Controversial Unverifiable

The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.

Early 17th century — A common adage attributed to him, highlighting the importance of observation and learning.
Controversial Unverifiable

Victory is decided before the battle begins.

Early 17th century — A strategic insight attributed to him, emphasizing preparation and planning.
Controversial Unverifiable

Do not fear failure, but rather fear not trying.

Early 17th century — An encouraging sentiment attributed to him, promoting courage and effort.
Controversial Unverifiable

The path to success is paved with hard work.

Early 17th century — A straightforward observation on achievement, attributed to him.
Controversial Unverifiable

He who controls the rice, controls the country.

Early 17th century — A pragmatic statement attributed to him, highlighting the importance of economic control.
Controversial Unverifiable

Seek not to control others, but to control yourself.

Early 17th century — A philosophical piece of advice attributed to him, emphasizing self-mastery.
Controversial Unverifiable

The greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.

Early 17th century — A quote emphasizing resilience, often attributed to him or similar historical figures.
Controversial Unverifiable

Know yourself, know your enemy, and you will not be defeated in a hundred battles.

Early 17th century — A paraphrase of Sun Tzu's 'Art of War,' often attributed to Ieyasu as a guiding principle.
Controversial Unverifiable

The future belongs to those who prepare for it.

Early 17th century — A forward-looking statement attributed to him, emphasizing planning and foresight.
Controversial Unverifiable

A single word can change the course of a nation.

Early 17th century — A reflection on the power of speech and communication, attributed to him.
Controversial Unverifiable

Trust no one completely, not even your own shadow.

Early 17th century — A cynical and cautious piece of advice attributed to him, reflecting the political climate of his er…
Controversial Unverifiable

The path of virtue is not easy, but it is the only path worth taking.

Early 17th century — A moralistic statement attributed to him, despite his often ruthless actions.
Controversial Unverifiable

A leader must be both feared and respected.

Early 17th century — A pragmatic view on leadership, attributed to him.
Controversial Unverifiable

The greatest weapon is a well-disciplined army.

Early 17th century — A military strategic observation attributed to him, reflecting his emphasis on troop training.
Controversial Unverifiable

Even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Early 17th century — A common proverb, often attributed to Ieyasu in a context of perseverance.
Controversial Unverifiable