To overcome the intelligent by folly is contrary to the natural order of things; to overcome the foolish by intelligence is in accord with the natural order. To overcome the intelligent by intelligence, however, is a matter of opportunity.
Interpretation
This quote highlights the natural hierarchy between intelligence and folly, emphasizing the rarity of equal intelligence confrontation.
Zhuge Liang's quote discusses the dynamics between intelligence and folly, suggesting that it is natural for folly to be overpowered by intelligence, while it is contrary to the natural order for the intelligent to be defeated by folly. The quote further implies that matching intelligence with intelligence is rare and relies on circumstances and opportunities, suggesting a deeper reflection on the balance of wit and the complexities of interaction between individuals.
In practice
In a discussion about decision-making in leadership, one could quote this to highlight the importance of wisdom over foolish choices.
Opportunistic relationships can hardly be kept constant. The acquaintance of honorable people, even at a distance, does not add flowers in times of warmth and does not change its leaves in times of cold: it continues unfading through the four seasons, becomes increasingly stable as it passes through ease and danger.
First organize the inner, then organize the outer ... First organize the great, then organize the small. First organize yourself, and then organize others.
Strength is but one aspect of power.
Good generals select intelligent officers, thoughtful advisors, and brave subordinates. They oversee their troops like a fierce tiger with wings.
Battles are not won by strength alone!
Nothing is harder to see into thanpeoples nature. The sage looks at subtle phenomena and listens tosmall voices. This harmonizes the outside with the inside and the inside with the outside.
It is really the mistake of our age. We think it is enough to discover new things, but we don't realize that knowing more demands a corresponding development of morality.
Knowledge is love and light and vision.
The most creative act you will ever undertake is the act of creating yourself.
Great souls are not those who have fewer passions and more virtues than others, but only those who have greater designs.
In my research, I've interviewed a lot of people who never fit in, who are what you might call 'different': scientists, artists, thinkers. And if you drop down deep into their work and who they are, there is a tremendous amount of self-acceptance.
One must train oneself, by small and frequent efforts, to dominate one's feelings.
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