The 21 Articles of Instruction Given to His Retainers by Tokugawa Muneharu (1696–1764), the Enlightened Lord of the Owari Domain in the Edo Period
・Govern with great love and broad compassion.
・Love conquers all—be benevolent like Lord Ieyasu.
・False charges shame the nation—investigate every case thoroughly.
・Perseverance is strength—avoid greed and stay true to your purpose.
・The first principle of learning is love—be righteous before being clever.
・Appoint people by their strengths—everyone has their own ability.
・Mastery comes from passion—be empathetic toward others’ hearts.
・Laws should be minimal—fewer rules are easier to honor.
・Use money wisely—excessive frugality brings no good.
・Commoners’ wisdom sustains life—govern through harmony, not force.
・A stress-free mind is the best medicine—diligence brings health.
・Performing arts nourish the people—allow plays, tea houses, and festivals.
・Respect predecessors—be well-informed in every matter.
・The way of art is profound—do not expect mastery in mere years.
・When advising youth, remember youth’s passion—respect age differences.
・Failure is the mother of invention—even great people err when young.
・Human life cannot be bought—cherish life and be ever cautious.
・Always see through the eyes of the people—show deep empathy.
・Govern flexibly—reform slowly, act swiftly in daily matters.
・Reform requires collective wisdom—trust in good advisors.
・“All is well” — treat all subordinates equally with sincere affection.