Preface to Master Sun’s Mathematical Classic

Preserved through the ages, it never fades; it stretches to the Eight Extremities|the farthest reaches of the universe in traditional Chinese cosmology without limit. When expanded, its depths cannot be fully plumbed; when contracted, it does not even fill one’s palm.

Those who embrace it find themselves wealthy and with abundance; those who turn away from it remain impoverished and destitute. Those whose minds are open will grasp its truths even in youth|original: 'youchong' (幼冲), referring to childhood or the very young; but those whose minds are closed will find mastery difficult even when their hair has turned white|original: 'haoshou' (皓首), a poetic term for old age.

Indeed, those who desire to learn must strive to gauge their own abilities and assess their character, ensuring their will is dedicated to focused study. If one proceeds in this manner, how could they possibly fail to succeed?