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A note from the digitizer
A note from the digitizer
THE CHINESE CLASSICS
with a translation, critical and exegetical notes, prolegomena, and copious indexes
with a translation, critical and explanatory notes, introductions, and extensive indexes
by James Legge
by James Legge
IN FIVE VOLUMES
CONFUCIAN ANALECTS THE GREAT LEARNING THE DOCTRINE OF THE MEAN
CONFUCIAN ANALECTS. BOOK I. HSIO R.
CHAPTER I. 1. The Master said, 'Is it not pleasant to learn with a constant perseverance and application? 2. 'Is it not delightful to have friends coming from distant quarters?' 3. 'Is he not a man of complete virtue, who feels no discomposure though men may take no note of him?'
CHAP. II. 1. The philosopher Yu said, 'They are few who, being filial and fraternal, are fond of offending against their superiors. There have been none, who, not liking to offend against their superiors, have been fond of stirring up confusion. 2. 'The superior man bends his attention to what is radical.
CHAP. II. 1. The philosopher Yu said, 'There are few people who, being devoted to their parents and siblings, enjoy disobeying their elders. No one who dislikes offending their superiors has a tendency to create chaos. 2. 'The superior person focuses on what is fundamental.
That being established, all practical courses naturally grow up. Filial piety and fraternal submission!— are they not the root of all benevolent actions?' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.' CHAP. IV. The philosopher Tsang said, 'I daily examine myself on three points:— whether, in transacting business for others, I may have been not faithful;— whether, in intercourse with friends, I may have been not sincere;— whether I may have not mastered and practised the instructions of my teacher.'
That being said, all practical courses naturally develop. Filial piety and brotherly respect! Aren't they the foundation of all good deeds? CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Nice words and a charming demeanor are rarely linked with true virtue.' CHAP. IV. The philosopher Tsang said, 'I reflect on myself daily regarding three things:— whether I have been unfaithful while doing business for others;— whether I have not been sincere in my relationships with friends;— and whether I have not understood and applied my teacher's teachings.'
CHAP. V. The Master said, To rule a country of a thousand chariots, there must be reverent attention to business, and sincerity; economy in expenditure, and love for men; and the employment of the people at the proper seasons.' CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'A youth, when at home, should be filial, and, abroad, respectful to his elders. He should be earnest and truthful. He should overflow in love to all, and cultivate the friendship of the good. When he has time and opportunity, after the performance of these things, he should employ them in polite studies.' CHAP. VII. Tsze-hsia said, 'If a man withdraws his mind from the love of beauty, and applies it as sincerely to the love of the virtuous; if, in serving his parents, he can exert his utmost strength;
CHAP. V. The Master said, To lead a nation of a thousand chariots, you need to pay serious attention to your responsibilities and be genuine; be careful with spending, show compassion for people, and make sure to engage the workforce at the right times. CHAP. VI. The Master said, A young person, when at home, should be respectful to their parents, and when away, show respect to their elders. They should be sincere and honest. They should have a lot of love for everyone and build friendships with good people. When they have the time and opportunity, after fulfilling these duties, they should focus on polite studies. CHAP. VII. Tsze-hsia said, If someone shifts their focus away from a love of beauty and sincerely dedicates themselves to loving the virtuous; if, in serving their parents, they give their all;
if, in serving his prince, he can devote his life; if, in his intercourse with his friends, his words are sincere:— although men say that he has not learned, I will certainly say that he has.' CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'If the scholar be not grave, he will not call forth any veneration, and his learning will not be solid. 2. 'Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles. 3. 'Have no friends not equal to yourself. 4. 'When you have faults, do not fear to abandon them.' CHAP. IX. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Let there be a careful attention to perform the funeral rites to parents, and let them be followed when long gone with the ceremonies of sacrifice;— then the virtue of the people will resume its proper excellence.'
if, in serving his prince, he can dedicate his life; if, in his interactions with his friends, he speaks honestly:— although people may say he hasn't learned, I will definitely say that he has. CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'If a scholar isn't serious, he won't earn anyone's respect, and his knowledge won't be solid. 2. 'Value faithfulness and sincerity above all else. 3. 'Don't have friends who aren't on the same level as you. 4. 'When you have shortcomings, don't be afraid to let them go.' CHAP. IX. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Pay careful attention to performing the funeral rites for your parents, and continue with the ceremonies of sacrifice long after they are gone;— then the virtue of the people will return to its true greatness.'
CHAP. X. 1. Tsze-ch'in asked Tsze-kung, saying, 'When our master comes to any country, he does not fail to learn all about its government. Does he ask his information? or is it given to him?' 2. Tsze-kung said, 'Our master is benign, upright, courteous, temperate, and complaisant, and thus he gets his information. The master's mode of asking information!— is it not different from that of other men?' CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'While a man's father is alive, look at the bent of his will; when his father is dead, look at his conduct. If for three years he does not alter from the way of his father, he may be called filial.'
CHAP. X. 1. Tsze-ch'in asked Tsze-kung, "When our master visits a country, he always learns about its government. Does he ask for information, or is it provided to him?" 2. Tsze-kung replied, "Our master is kind, honest, polite, moderate, and accommodating, and that's how he gathers information. The way our master asks for information—it's different from how others do it!" CHAP. XI. The Master said, "While a man's father is alive, observe his intentions; after his father dies, observe his behavior. If he remains true to his father's way for three years, he can be considered filial."
CHAP. XII. 1. The philosopher Yu said, 'In practising the rules of propriety, a natural ease is to be prized. In the ways prescribed by the ancient kings, this is the excellent quality, and in things small and great we follow them. 2. 'Yet it is not to be observed in all cases. If one, knowing how such ease should be prized, manifests it, without regulating it by the rules of propriety, this likewise is not to be done.' CHAP. XIII. The philosopher Yu said, 'When agreements are made according to what is right, what is spoken can be made good. When respect is shown according to what is proper, one keeps far from shame and disgrace. When the parties upon whom a man leans are proper persons to be intimate with, he can make them his guides and masters.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'He who aims to be a man of complete virtue in his food does not seek to gratify his appetite, nor
CHAP. XII. 1. The philosopher Yu said, 'When practicing the rules of etiquette, we should value a natural ease. Following the paths set by the ancient kings, this is the key quality, and in both small and large matters, we adhere to them. 2. 'However, this doesn’t apply in every situation. If someone understands how important this ease is and shows it without aligning it with the rules of propriety, that should also not be done.' CHAP. XIII. The philosopher Yu said, 'When agreements are made based on what is right, what is said can be upheld. When respect is given according to what is proper, one steers clear of shame and disgrace. When the people one relies on are suitable individuals to be close with, he can take them as his guides and teachers.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'A person who aims to be truly virtuous in their eating does not seek to satisfy their cravings, nor
in his dwelling place does he seek the appliances of ease; he is earnest in what he is doing, and careful in his speech; he frequents the company of men of principle that he may be rectified:— such a person may be said indeed to love to learn.' CHAP. XV. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'What do you pronounce concerning the poor man who yet does not flatter, and the rich man who is not proud?' The Master replied, 'They will do; but they are not equal to him, who, though poor, is yet cheerful, and to him, who, though rich, loves the rules of propriety.' 2. Tsze-kung replied, 'It is said in the Book of Poetry, "As you cut and then file, as you carve and then polish."— The meaning is the same, I apprehend, as that which you have just expressed.' 3. The Master said, 'With one like Ts'ze, I can begin to talk
In his home, he looks for the comforts of life; he is dedicated to his work and careful with his words; he often hangs out with principled people to improve himself:— such a person truly loves to learn. CHAP. XV. 1. Tsze-kung asked, 'What do you think about the poor man who doesn’t flatter, and the rich man who isn’t arrogant?' The Master replied, 'They're fine, but they don’t compare to the one who, despite being poor, remains cheerful, and to the one who, though wealthy, values the rules of propriety.' 2. Tsze-kung responded, 'It says in the Book of Poetry, "As you cut and then file, as you carve and then polish."— I think this means the same as what you've just said.' 3. The Master said, 'With someone like Ts'ze, I can begin to talk.
about the odes. I told him one point, and he knew its proper sequence.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'I will not be afflicted at men's not knowing me; I will be afflicted that I do not know men.'
about the odes. I told him one point, and he understood how it fit in. CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'I won’t be upset that people don’t know me; I’ll be upset that I don’t know people.'
BOOK II. WEI CHANG.
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'He who exercises government by means of his virtue may be compared to the north polar star, which keeps its place and all the stars turn towards it.' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'In the Book of Poetry are three hundred pieces, but the design of them all may be embraced in one sentence— "Having no depraved thoughts."' CHAP. III. 1. The Master said, 'If the people be led by laws, and uniformity sought to be given them by punishments, they will try to avoid the punishment, but have no sense of shame. 2. 'If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good.' CHAP. IV. 1. The Master said, 'At fifteen, I had my mind bent on learning. 2. 'At thirty, I stood firm. 3. 'At forty, I had no doubts. 4. 'At fifty, I knew the decrees of Heaven.
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'A leader who governs through their virtue is like the North Star, remaining steady while all the other stars revolve around it.' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'The Book of Poetry contains three hundred pieces, but they can all be summed up in one sentence— "Having no corrupt thoughts."' CHAP. III. 1. The Master said, 'If people are guided by laws and uniformity is enforced through punishments, they will only try to escape the punishment, lacking any sense of shame. 2. 'If they are guided by virtue and uniformity is encouraged through proper conduct, they will develop a sense of shame and will become good.' CHAP. IV. 1. The Master said, 'At fifteen, I was focused on learning. 2. 'At thirty, I was steady in my convictions. 3. 'At forty, I had no doubts. 4. 'At fifty, I understood the ways of Heaven.'
5. 'At sixty, my ear was an obedient organ for the reception of truth. 6. 'At seventy, I could follow what my heart desired, without transgressing what was right.' CHAP. V. 1. Mang I asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'It is not being disobedient.' 2. Soon after, as Fan Ch'ih was driving him, the Master told him, saying, 'Mang-sun asked me what filial piety was, and I answered him,— "not being disobedient."' 3. Fan Ch'ih said, 'What did you mean?' The Master replied, 'That parents, when alive, be served according to propriety; that, when dead, they should be buried according to propriety; and that they should be sacrificed to according to propriety.'
5. 'At sixty, my ear was ready to hear the truth. 6. 'At seventy, I could pursue what my heart desired, without crossing what was right.' CHAP. V. 1. Mang asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'It means not being disobedient.' 2. Shortly after, while Fan Ch'ih was driving him, the Master said, 'Mang-sun asked me what filial piety was, and I told him,— "not being disobedient."' 3. Fan Ch'ih asked, 'What did you mean?' The Master replied, 'That while parents are alive, they should be served properly; that when they pass away, they should be buried properly; and that they should be honored through sacrifices according to what is proper.'
CHAP. VI. Mang Wu asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'Parents are anxious lest their children should be sick.' CHAP. VII. Tsze-yu asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'The filial piety of now-a-days means the support of one's parents. But dogs and horses likewise are able to do something in the way of support;— without reverence, what is there to distinguish the one support given from the other?' CHAP. VIII. Tsze-hsia asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'The difficulty is with the countenance. If, when their elders have any troublesome affairs, the young take the toil of them, and if, when the young have wine and food, they set them before their elders, is THIS to be considered filial piety?'
CHAP. VI. Mang Wu asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'Parents worry that their children might get sick.' CHAP. VII. Tsze-yu asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'Today's idea of filial piety is about taking care of one’s parents. But dogs and horses can do something to support them too; without respect, what makes one type of support different from the other?' CHAP. VIII. Tsze-hsia asked what filial piety was. The Master said, 'The challenge lies in the attitude. If young people take on their elders' burdens when they face troubles, and if they prepare wine and food for their elders when they have it, should THIS be called filial piety?'
CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'I have talked with Hui for a whole
day, and he has not made any objection to anything I said;— as if
he were stupid. He has retired, and I have examined his conduct
when away from me, and found him able to illustrate my teachings.
Hui!— He is not stupid.'
CHAP. X. 1. The Master said, 'See what a man does.
2. 'Mark his motives.
3. 'Examine in what things he rests.
4. 'How can a man conceal his character?
5. How can a man conceal his character?'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If a man keeps cherishing his old
knowledge, so as continually to be acquiring new, he may be a
teacher of others.'
CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'I talked with Hui for a whole day, and he didn’t disagree with anything I said; it was almost like he was being slow. He’s left, and I’ve looked at how he acts when he’s not with me, and I see that he can apply my teachings. Hui!— He’s not slow.'
CHAP. X. 1. The Master said, 'Look at what a person does.
2. 'Notice their motives.
3. 'See what they rely on.
4. 'How can someone hide their character?
5. How can someone hide their character?'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If someone keeps valuing their old knowledge while constantly learning new things, they could be a teacher to others.'
CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'The accomplished scholar is not a utensil.' CHAP. XIII. Tsze-kung asked what constituted the superior man. The Master said, 'He acts before he speaks, and afterwards speaks according to his actions.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'The superior man is catholic and no partisan. The mean man is partisan and not catholic.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Learning without thought is labour lost; thought without learning is perilous.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'The study of strange doctrines is injurious indeed!'
CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'A skilled scholar isn’t just a tool.' CHAP. XIII. Tsze-kung asked what makes a superior man. The Master said, 'He takes action before he speaks, and then speaks based on his actions.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'A superior man is open-minded and not biased. A mediocre man is biased and not open-minded.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Learning without thinking is wasted effort; thinking without learning is dangerous.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Studying unfamiliar ideas can be really harmful!'
CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Yu, shall I teach you what knowledge is? When you know a thing, to hold that you know it; and when you do not know a thing, to allow that you do not know it;— this is knowledge.' CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-chang was learning with a view to official emolument. 2. The Master said, 'Hear much and put aside the points of which you stand in doubt, while you speak cautiously at the same time of the others:— then you will afford few occasions for blame. See much and put aside the things which seem perilous, while you are cautious at the same time in carrying the others into practice:— then you will have few occasions for repentance. When one gives few occasions for blame in his words, and few occasions for repentance in his conduct, he is in the way to get emolument.'
CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Yu, do you want me to teach you what knowledge is? When you know something, acknowledge that you know it; and when you don’t know something, admit that you don’t know it—this is knowledge.' CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-chang was studying with the goal of getting a government position. 2. The Master said, 'Listen a lot and set aside the points you're unsure about, while being careful when you discuss the others—this way, you'll give people fewer reasons to criticize you. Observe a lot and avoid the things that seem risky, while being careful when putting the other things into practice—this way, you'll have fewer reasons to regret your actions. When someone gives few reasons for blame in their words and few reasons for regret in their actions, they are on the path to gaining rewards.'
CHAP. XIX. The Duke Ai asked, saying, 'What should be done in order to secure the submission of the people?' Confucius replied, 'Advance the upright and set aside the crooked, then the people will submit. Advance the crooked and set aside the upright, then the people will not submit.' CHAP. XX. Chi K'ang asked how to cause the people to reverence their ruler, to be faithful to him, and to go on to nerve themselves to virtue. The Master said, 'Let him preside over them with gravity;— then they will reverence him. Let him be filial and kind to all;— then they will be faithful to him. Let him advance the good and teach the incompetent;— then they will eagerly seek to be virtuous.' CHAP. XXI. 1. Some one addressed Confucius, saying, 'Sir, why are you not engaged in the government?'
CHAP. XIX. Duke Ai asked, "What should we do to ensure the people follow our lead?" Confucius replied, "Promote the honest and set aside the dishonest, and the people will support you. Promote the dishonest and set aside the honest, and the people will not support you." CHAP. XX. Chi K'ang asked how to make the people respect their ruler, be loyal to him, and inspire themselves to be virtuous. The Master said, "If he leads them with seriousness, they will respect him. If he shows love and kindness to everyone, they will be loyal to him. If he promotes good behavior and helps those who are struggling, they will eagerly strive to be virtuous." CHAP. XXI. 1. Someone asked Confucius, "Sir, why aren't you involved in government?"
2. The Master said, 'What does the Shu-ching say of filial piety?— "You are filial, you discharge your brotherly duties. These qualities are displayed in government." This then also constitutes the exercise of government. Why must there be THAT— making one be in the government?' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'I do not know how a man without truthfulness is to get on. How can a large carriage be made to go without the cross-bar for yoking the oxen to, or a small carriage without the arrangement for yoking the horses?' CHAP. XXIII. 1. Tsze-chang asked whether the affairs of ten ages after could be known. 2. Confucius said, 'The Yin dynasty followed the regulations of the Hsia: wherein it took from or added to them may be known. The Chau dynasty has followed the regulations of Yin: wherein it took from or added to them may be known. Some other may follow the Chau, but though it should be at the distance of a hundred ages, its affairs may be known.'
2. The Master said, 'What does the Book of Documents say about filial piety?— "You are respectful to your parents, and you fulfill your duties to your siblings. These qualities are shown in government." This too is part of good governance. Why is it necessary to have someone in charge of the government?' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'I don’t understand how someone who isn’t truthful can manage. How can a large cart be driven without the cross-bar to hitch the oxen, or a small cart without the setup to hitch the horses?' CHAP. XXIII. 1. Tsze-chang asked if we could know the matters of ten ages to come. 2. Confucius said, 'The Yin dynasty followed the rules of the Hsia: you can tell where they took from or added to them. The Zhou dynasty has followed the rules of Yin: you can see where they made changes. Some future dynasty may follow the Zhou, and even if it's a hundred ages away, its affairs can still be understood.'
CHAP. XXIV. 1. The Master said, 'For a man to sacrifice to a
spirit which does not belong to him is flattery.
2. 'To see what is right and not to do it is want of courage.'
CHAP. XXIV. 1. The Master said, 'For a person to make an offering to a spirit that isn't theirs is just flattery.
2. 'To recognize what is right and choose not to act on it is a lack of courage.'
BOOK III. PA YIH.
CHAP. I. Confucius said of the head of the Chi family, who had eight rows of pantomimes in his area, 'If he can bear to do this, what may he not bear to do?'
CHAP. I. Confucius said about the head of the Chi family, who had eight groups of performers in his area, 'If he can handle this, what else could he handle?'
CHAP. II. The three families used the YUNG ode, while the vessels were being removed, at the conclusion of the sacrifice. The Master said, '"Assisting are the princes;— the son of heaven looks profound and grave:"— what application can these words have in the hall of the three families?' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'If a man be without the virtues proper to humanity, what has he to do with the rites of propriety? If a man be without the virtues proper to humanity, what has he to do with music?' CHAP. IV. 1. Lin Fang asked what was the first thing to be attended to in ceremonies. 2. The Master said, 'A great question indeed! 3. 'In festive ceremonies, it is better to be sparing than extravagant.
CHAP. II. The three families used the YUNG ode while the vessels were being taken away at the end of the sacrifice. The Master said, "The princes are helping; the son of heaven looks deep and serious." What relevance can these words have in the hall of the three families? CHAP. III. The Master said, "If a person lacks the virtues appropriate to humanity, what do they have to do with the rites of propriety? If a person lacks the virtues appropriate to humanity, what do they have to do with music?" CHAP. IV. 1. Lin Fang asked what the first thing to focus on in ceremonies is. 2. The Master said, "That's a significant question! 3. "In festive ceremonies, it’s better to be moderate than extravagant.
In the ceremonies of mourning, it is better that there be deep sorrow than a minute attention to observances.' CHAP. V. The Master said, 'The rude tribes of the east and north have their princes, and are not like the States of our great land which are without them.' CHAP. VI. The chief of the Chi family was about to sacrifice to the T'ai mountain. The Master said to Zan Yu, 'Can you not save him from this?' He answered, 'I cannot.' Confucius said, 'Alas! will you say that the T'ai mountain is not so discerning as Lin Fang?'
In mourning ceremonies, it's better to have deep sorrow than to focus on formalities. CHAP. V. The Master said, 'The uncivilized tribes of the east and north have their leaders, unlike the States of our great land, which don’t have them.' CHAP. VI. The head of the Chi family was about to make a sacrifice to T'ai mountain. The Master asked Zan Yu, 'Can you save him from this?' He replied, 'I can't.' Confucius said, 'Alas! Are you saying that T'ai mountain is less discerning than Lin Fang?'
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'The student of virtue has no contentions. If it be said he cannot avoid them, shall this be in archery? But he bows complaisantly to his competitors; thus he ascends the hall, descends, and exacts the forfeit of drinking. In his contention, he is still the Chun-tsze.' CHAP. VIII. 1. Tsze-hsia asked, saying, 'What is the meaning of the passage— "The pretty dimples of her artful smile! The well- defined black and white of her eye! The plain ground for the colours?"' 2. The Master said, 'The business of laying on the colours follows (the preparation of) the plain ground.' 3. 'Ceremonies then are a subsequent thing?' The Master said, 'It is Shang who can bring out my meaning. Now I can begin to talk about the odes with him.'
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'A person of virtue doesn’t engage in conflicts. If someone says he can’t avoid them, is it like in archery? He graciously acknowledges his competitors; therefore he goes up to the hall, comes down, and claims the drinking forfeit. Even in competition, he remains the Chun-tsze.' CHAP. VIII. 1. Tsze-hsia asked, 'What does the line mean— "The charming dimples of her playful smile! The clear black and white of her eyes! The simple background for the colors?"' 2. The Master said, 'Applying the colors comes after preparing the simple background.' 3. 'So, ceremonies are secondary?' The Master replied, 'It’s Shang who understands my meaning. Now I can start discussing the odes with him.'
CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'I could describe the ceremonies of the Hsia dynasty, but Chi cannot sufficiently attest my words. I could describe the ceremonies of the Yin dynasty, but Sung cannot sufficiently attest my words. (They cannot do so) because of the insufficiency of their records and wise men. If those were sufficient, I could adduce them in support of my words.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'At the great sacrifice, after the pouring out of the libation, I have no wish to look on.' CHAP. XI. Some one asked the meaning of the great sacrifice. The Master said, 'I do not know. He who knew its meaning would find it as easy to govern the kingdom as to look on this;— pointing to his palm.
CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'I could explain the ceremonies of the Hsia dynasty, but Chi can't fully verify what I say. I could explain the ceremonies of the Yin dynasty, but Sung can't fully verify what I say either. (They can't do so) because their records and wise men are lacking. If they were sufficient, I could use them to back up my words.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'At the major sacrifice, after the libation is poured out, I don't want to watch.' CHAP. XI. Someone asked about the meaning of the great sacrifice. The Master said, 'I don't know. Whoever understands its meaning would find it as easy to govern the kingdom as it is to look at this;— pointing to his palm.
CHAP. XII. 1. He sacrificed to the dead, as if they were present. He sacrificed to the spirits, as if the spirits were present. 2. The Master said, 'I consider my not being present at the sacrifice, as if I did not sacrifice.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Wang-sun Chia asked, saying, 'What is the meaning of the saying, "It is better to pay court to the furnace than to the south-west corner?"' 2. The Master said, 'Not so. He who offends against Heaven has none to whom he can pray.'
CHAP. XII. 1. He made offerings to the dead, as if they were there. He offered to the spirits, as if the spirits were there. 2. The Master said, 'I believe that my absence from the offering means I didn’t make the offering.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Wang-sun Chia asked, 'What does the saying mean, "It's better to pay attention to the furnace than to the southwest corner?"' 2. The Master said, 'Not at all. Someone who goes against Heaven has no one to pray to.'
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'Chau had the advantage of viewing the two past dynasties. How complete and elegant are its regulations! I follow Chau.' CHAP. XV. The Master, when he entered the grand temple, asked about everything. Some one said, 'Who will say that the son of the man of Tsau knows the rules of propriety! He has entered the grand temple and asks about everything.' The Master heard the remark, and said, 'This is a rule of propriety.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'In archery it is not going through the leather which is the principal thing;— because people's strength is not equal. This was the old way.'
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'Chau had the advantage of observing the two previous dynasties. Its regulations are so complete and refined! I follow Chau.' CHAP. XV. When the Master entered the grand temple, he inquired about everything. Someone remarked, 'Who can say that the son of the man from Tsau understands the rules of propriety? He’s entered the grand temple and is asking about everything.' The Master overheard this and said, 'This is a rule of propriety.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'In archery, it’s not just about piercing the leather; it's about the fact that people have different strengths. This was the old way.'
CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-kung wished to do away with the offering of a sheep connected with the inauguration of the first day of each month. 2. The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you love the sheep; I love the ceremony.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'The full observance of the rules of propriety in serving one's prince is accounted by people to be flattery.' CHAP. XIX. The Duke Ting asked how a prince should employ his ministers, and how ministers should serve their prince. Confucius replied, 'A prince should employ his minister according to according to the rules of propriety; ministers should serve their prince with faithfulness.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'The Kwan Tsu is expressive of enjoyment without being licentious, and of grief without being hurtfully excessive.'
CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-kung wanted to get rid of the sheep offering connected to the start of each month. 2. The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you care about the sheep; I care about the ceremony.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Following the rules of propriety when serving your prince is seen by people as flattery.' CHAP. XIX. Duke Ting asked how a prince should use his ministers and how ministers should serve their prince. Confucius replied, 'A prince should use his minister according to the rules of propriety; ministers should serve their prince with loyalty.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'The Kwan Tsu expresses enjoyment without being indulgent and sorrow without being overly dramatic.'
CHAP. XXI. 1. The Duke Ai asked Tsai Wo about the altars of the spirits of the land. Tsai Wo replied, 'The Hsia sovereign planted the pine tree about them; the men of the Yin planted the cypress; and the men of the Chau planted the chestnut tree, meaning thereby to cause the people to be in awe.' 2. When the Master heard it, he said, 'Things that are done, it is needless to speak about; things that have had their course, it is needless to remonstrate about; things that are past, it is needless to blame.' CHAP. XXII. 1. The Master said, 'Small indeed was the capacity of Kwan Chung!' 2. Some one said, 'Was Kwan Chung parsimonious?' 'Kwan,' was the reply, 'had the San Kwei, and his officers performed no double duties; how can he be considered parsimonious?' 3. 'Then, did Kwan Chung know the rules of propriety?' The
CHAP. XXI. 1. Duke Ai asked Tsai Wo about the altars for the spirits of the land. Tsai Wo replied, "The Hsia ruler planted the pine tree around them; the Yin people planted the cypress; and the Zhou planted the chestnut tree to instill a sense of respect in the people." 2. When the Master heard this, he said, "There's no need to talk about things that have already been done; it's pointless to argue about things that have run their course; and there's no use blaming what has passed." CHAP. XXII. 1. The Master said, "Kwan Chung had very limited ability!" 2. Someone asked, "Was Kwan Chung stingy?" "Kwan," was the reply, "had the San Kwei, and his officials didn't have any overlapping responsibilities; how could he be seen as stingy?" 3. "Then, did Kwan Chung understand the rules of propriety?" The
Master said, 'The princes of States have a screen intercepting the view at their gates. Kwan had likewise a screen at his gate. The princes of States on any friendly meeting between two of them, had a stand on which to place their inverted cups. Kwan had also such a stand. If Kwan knew the rules of propriety, who does not know them?' CHAP. XXXII. The Master instructing the grand music-master of Lu said, 'How to play music may be known. At the commencement of the piece, all the parts should sound together. As it proceeds, they should be in harmony while severally distinct and flowing without break, and thus on to the conclusion.'
The Master said, "The rulers of states have a screen blocking the view at their gates. Kwan also had a screen at his gate. When two princes of states meet in a friendly way, they have a stand to place their inverted cups. Kwan had such a stand as well. If Kwan understood the rules of propriety, then who doesn’t?" CHAP. XXXII. The Master was teaching the chief music teacher of Lu and said, "You can understand how to play music. At the start of the piece, all the parts should play together. As it goes on, they should harmonize while staying distinct and flowing smoothly until the end."
CHAP. XXIV. The border warden at Yi requested to be introduced to the Master, saying, 'When men of superior virtue have come to this, I have never been denied the privilege of seeing them.' The followers of the sage introduced him, and when he came out from the interview, he said, 'My friends, why are you distressed by your master's loss of office? The kingdom has long been without the principles of truth and right; Heaven is going to use your master as a bell with its wooden tongue.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said of the Shao that it was perfectly beautiful and also perfectly good. He said of the Wu that it was perfectly beautiful but not perfectly good. CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'High station filled without indulgent generosity; ceremonies performed without reverence; mourning conducted without sorrow;— wherewith should I contemplate such ways?'
CHAP. XXIV. The border warden at Yi asked to meet with the Master, saying, 'Whenever truly virtuous people come to this, I've always had the chance to see them.' The sage's followers brought him in, and when he came out from the meeting, he said, 'My friends, why are you upset about your master's loss of position? The kingdom has long been lacking in truth and righteousness; Heaven is going to use your master like a bell with a wooden tongue.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said of the Shao that it was perfectly beautiful and also perfectly good. He said of the Wu that it was perfectly beautiful but not perfectly good. CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'A high position filled without generous kindness; rituals performed without respect; mourning carried out without genuine sorrow—how can I reflect on such ways?'
BOOK IV. LE JIN.
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'It is virtuous manners which constitute the excellence of a neighborhood. If a man in selecting a residence, do not fix on one where such prevail, how can he be wise?' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'Those who are without virtue cannot abide long either in a condition of poverty and hardship, or in a condition of enjoyment. The virtuous rest in virtue; the wise desire virtue.'
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'Good manners are what make a neighborhood great. If someone chooses a place to live and doesn’t pick one where good manners are common, how can they be considered wise?' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'People who lack virtue can’t stay in a state of hardship for long, nor can they truly enjoy a comfortable life. The virtuous are grounded in virtue; the wise aspire to it.'
CHAP. III. The Master said, 'It is only the (truly) virtuous man, who can love, or who can hate, others.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'If the will be set on virtue, there will be no practice of wickedness.' CHAP. V. 1. The Master said, 'Riches and honours are what men desire. If it cannot be obtained in the proper way, they should not be held. Poverty and meanness are what men dislike. If it cannot be avoided in the proper way, they should not be avoided. 2. 'If a superior man abandon virtue, how can he fulfil the requirements of that name? 3. 'The superior man does not, even for the space of a single meal, act contrary to virtue. In moments of haste, he cleaves to it. In seasons of danger, he cleaves to it.'
CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Only a truly virtuous person can genuinely love or hate others.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'If your focus is on virtue, you won’t engage in wrongdoing.' CHAP. V. 1. The Master said, 'People desire wealth and status. If they can't be gained in the right way, they shouldn't be pursued. People dislike poverty and low status. If they can't be avoided properly, they shouldn't be avoided. 2. 'If a person of high character abandons virtue, how can they live up to that title? 3. 'A person of high character doesn't act against virtue, not even for a single meal. During times of urgency, they adhere to it. In times of danger, they stick to it.'
CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'I have not seen a person who loved virtue, or one who hated what was not virtuous. He who loved virtue, would esteem nothing above it. He who hated what is not virtuous, would practise virtue in such a way that he would not allow anything that is not virtuous to approach his person. 2. 'Is any one able for one day to apply his strength to virtue? I have not seen the case in which his strength would be insufficient. 3. 'Should there possibly be any such case, I have not seen it.' CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'The faults of men are characteristic of the class to which they belong. By observing a man's faults, it may be known that he is virtuous.'
CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'I have never encountered someone who truly loved virtue, or someone who detested what is not virtuous. A person who loves virtue would value nothing above it. A person who hates what is not virtuous would practice virtue in such a way that they wouldn't let anything that isn't virtuous come near them. 2. 'Can anyone truly focus their efforts on virtue for just one day? I have yet to see a situation where their strength would fall short. 3. 'If there happens to be such a situation, I have not witnessed it.' CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'The faults of people reflect the group they belong to. By examining a person's faults, you can tell if they are virtuous.'
CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'If a man in the morning hear the right way, he may die in the evening without regret.' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'A scholar, whose mind is set on truth, and who is ashamed of bad clothes and bad food, is not fit to be discoursed with.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'The superior man, in the world, does not set his mind either for anything, or against anything; what is right he will follow.' CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'The superior man thinks of virtue; the small man thinks of comfort. The superior man thinks of the sanctions of law; the small man thinks of favours which he may receive.'
CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'If a person hears the right way in the morning, they can die in the evening without regret.' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'A scholar who is focused on truth and feels ashamed of poor clothing and food is not worthy of discussion.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'The superior person in the world doesn't set their mind for or against anything; they will follow what is right.' CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'The superior person thinks about virtue; the petty person thinks about comfort. The superior person considers the consequences of law; the petty person thinks about favors they might receive.'
CHAP. XII. The Master said: 'He who acts with a constant view to his own advantage will be much murmured against.' CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'If a prince is able to govern his kingdom with the complaisance proper to the rules of propriety, what difficulty will he have? If he cannot govern it with that complaisance, what has he to do with the rules of propriety?' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'A man should say, I am not concerned that I have no place, I am concerned how I may fit myself for one. I am not concerned that I am not known, I seek to be worthy to be known.' CHAP. XV. 1. The Master said, 'Shan, my doctrine is that of an all-pervading unity.' The disciple Tsang replied, 'Yes.' 2. The Master went out, and the other disciples asked, saying,
CHAP. XII. The Master said: 'If someone always acts with their own benefit in mind, they'll hear a lot of complaints about it.' CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'If a prince can lead his kingdom with the proper kindness required by etiquette, how hard can it be? If he can't lead it that way, what does he have to do with etiquette?' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'A person should think, I’m not worried about not having a position; I’m focused on how I can prepare myself for one. I’m not concerned about being unknown; I strive to be deserving of recognition.' CHAP. XV. 1. The Master said, 'Shan, my teaching emphasizes a universal unity.' The disciple Tsang replied, 'Yes.' 2. The Master went out, and the other disciples asked, saying,
'What do his words mean?' Tsang said, 'The doctrine of our master is to be true to the principles of our nature and the benevolent exercise of them to others,— this and nothing more.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'The mind of the superior man is conversant with righteousness; the mind of the mean man is conversant with gain.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'When we see men of worth, we should think of equalling them; when we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'In serving his parents, a son may remonstrate with them, but gently; when he sees that they do not incline to follow his advice, he shows an increased degree of reverence, but does not abandon his purpose; and should they punish him, he does not allow himself to murmur.'
'What do his words mean?' Tsang asked. 'Our master's teaching is about staying true to our nature and using that to treat others kindly—nothing more than that.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'A noble person's mind focuses on doing what’s right; a common person's mind is focused on profit.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'When we see good people, we should strive to be like them; when we encounter those with the opposite character, we should look inward and reflect on ourselves.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'In caring for his parents, a son can express his opinions, but in a gentle way; if they don't want to take his advice, he shows even more respect but doesn’t give up on his intentions; and if they punish him, he doesn’t complain.'
CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'While his parents are alive, the son may not go abroad to a distance. If he does go abroad, he must have a fixed place to which he goes.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'If the son for three years does not alter from the way of his father, he may be called filial.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'The years of parents may by no means not be kept in the memory, as an occasion at once for joy and for fear.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'The reason why the ancients did not readily give utterance to their words, was that they feared lest their actions should not come up to them.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'The cautious seldom err.'
CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'As long as his parents are alive, the son should not travel far. If he does go away, he must have a specific destination.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'If the son shows consistency in following his father's way for three years, he can be considered respectful.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'One must always remember their parents’ years, as a time for both joy and anxiety.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'The reason the ancients were careful about what they said was that they worried their actions wouldn’t match their words.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'Those who are careful seldom make mistakes.'
CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'The superior man wishes to be slow in his speech and earnest in his conduct.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practises it will have neighbors.' CHAP. XXVI. Tsze-yu said, 'In serving a prince, frequent remonstrances lead to disgrace. Between friends, frequent reproofs make the friendship distant.'
CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'A person of integrity prefers to speak slowly and act sincerely.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Virtue doesn't stand alone. Those who practice it will attract others.' CHAP. XXVI. Tsze-yu said, 'When serving a leader, constant objections can lead to disgrace. With friends, frequent criticism can drive them apart.'
BOOK V. KUNG-YE CH'ANG.
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said of Kung-ye Ch'ang that he might
be wived; although he was put in bonds, he had not been guilty of
any crime. Accordingly, he gave him his own daughter to wife.
2. Of Nan Yung he said that if the country were well governed
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said of Kung-ye Ch'ang that he could be married; even though he was imprisoned, he hadn’t committed any crime. So, he gave him his own daughter as a wife.
2. Of Nan Yung he said that if the country were well governed
he would not be out of office, and if it were ill-governed, he would escape punishment and disgrace. He gave him the daughter of his own elder brother to wife. CHAP. II. The Master said of Tsze-chien, 'Of superior virtue indeed is such a man! If there were not virtuous men in Lu, how could this man have acquired this character?' CHAP. III. Tsze-kung asked, 'What do you say of me, Ts'ze? The Master said, 'You are a utensil.' 'What utensil?' 'A gemmed sacrificial utensil.'
he wouldn’t lose his position, and if things went wrong, he would avoid punishment and shame. He gave him the daughter of his own older brother to marry. CHAP. II. The Master said of Tsze-chien, 'What a truly virtuous man! If there weren't virtuous people in Lu, how could this man have developed such a character?' CHAP. III. Tsze-kung asked, 'What do you think of me, Ts'ze?' The Master replied, 'You are a tool.' 'What kind of tool?' 'A precious sacrificial tool.'
CHAP. IV. 1. Some one said, 'Yung is truly virtuous, but he is not ready with his tongue.' 2. The Master said, 'What is the good of being ready with the tongue? They who encounter men with smartnesses of speech for the most part procure themselves hatred. I know not whether he be truly virtuous, but why should he show readiness of the tongue?' CHAP. V. The Master was wishing Ch'i-tiao K'ai to enter on official employment. He replied, 'I am not yet able to rest in the assurance of THIS.' The Master was pleased. CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'My doctrines make no way. I will get upon a raft, and float about on the sea. He that will accompany me will be Yu, I dare say.' Tsze-lu hearing this was glad,
CHAP. IV. 1. Someone said, 'Yung is genuinely virtuous, but he isn’t quick with his words.' 2. The Master replied, 'What’s the point of being quick with words? Those who engage others with clever speech usually end up disliked. I’m not sure if he’s genuinely virtuous, but why should he need to be quick with his words?' CHAP. V. The Master wanted Ch'i-tiao K'ai to take up an official position. He replied, 'I’m not yet able to be confident in THIS.' The Master was pleased. CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'My teachings aren’t gaining traction. I’ll get on a raft and drift on the sea. The one who will join me will probably be Yu.' Tsze-lu, hearing this, was happy,
upon which the Master said, 'Yu is fonder of daring than I am. He does not exercise his judgment upon matters.' CHAP. VII. 1. Mang Wu asked about Tsze-lu, whether he was perfectly virtuous. The Master said, 'I do not know.' 2. He asked again, when the Master replied, 'In a kingdom of a thousand chariots, Yu might be employed to manage the military levies, but I do not know whether he be perfectly virtuous.' 3. 'And what do you say of Ch'iu?' The Master replied, 'In a city of a thousand families, or a clan of a hundred chariots, Ch'iu might be employed as governor, but I do not know whether he is perfectly virtuous.' 4. 'What do you say of Ch'ih?' The Master replied, 'With his sash girt and standing in a court, Ch'ih might be employed to converse with the visitors and guests, but I do not know whether he is perfectly virtuous.'
upon which the Master said, 'Yu is more fond of taking risks than I am. He doesn’t think through things carefully.' CHAP. VII. 1. Mang Wu asked about Tsze-lu, whether he was completely virtuous. The Master said, 'I don’t know.' 2. He asked again, and the Master replied, 'In a kingdom with a thousand chariots, Yu could be put in charge of the military forces, but I don’t know if he is completely virtuous.' 3. 'And what do you think of Ch'iu?' The Master replied, 'In a city with a thousand families, or a clan with a hundred chariots, Ch'iu could be appointed as governor, but I don’t know if he is completely virtuous.' 4. 'What do you think of Ch'ih?' The Master replied, 'With his sash tied and standing in a court, Ch'ih could be appointed to talk with visitors and guests, but I don’t know if he is completely virtuous.'
CHAP. VII. 1. The Master said to Tsze-kung, 'Which do you consider superior, yourself or Hui?' 2. Tsze-kung replied, 'How dare I compare myself with Hui? Hui hears one point and knows all about a subject; I hear one point, and know a second.' 3. The Master said, 'You are not equal to him. I grant you, you are not equal to him.' CHAP. IX. 1. Tsai Yu being asleep during the daytime, the Master said, 'Rotten wood cannot be carved; a wall of dirty earth will not receive the trowel. This Yu!— what is the use of my reproving him?' 2. The Master said, 'At first, my way with men was to hear their words, and give them credit for their conduct. Now my way is to hear their words, and look at their conduct. It is from Yu that I have learned to make this change.'
CHAP. VII. 1. The Master said to Tsze-kung, 'Who do you think is better, you or Hui?' 2. Tsze-kung replied, 'How can I compare myself to Hui? Hui hears one point and understands everything about a subject; I hear one point and only know a little more.' 3. The Master said, 'You can't compete with him. I will admit, you're not on his level.' CHAP. IX. 1. Tsai Yu was sleeping during the day, and the Master said, 'You can't shape rotten wood; a wall made of dirt won’t hold plaster. This Yu!— what's the point of me criticizing him?' 2. The Master said, 'At first, I judged people by their words and assumed their actions were good. Now I listen to what they say and watch what they do. I learned this change from Yu.'
CHAP. X. The Master said, 'I have not seen a firm and unbending man.' Some one replied, 'There is Shan Ch'ang.' 'Ch'ang,' said the Master, 'is under the influence of his passions; how can he be pronounced firm and unbending?' CHAP. XI. Tsze-kung said, 'What I do not wish men to do to me, I also wish not to do to men.' The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you have not attained to that.' CHAP. XII. Tsze-kung said, 'The Master's personal displays of his principles and ordinary descriptions of them may be heard. His discourses about man's nature, and the way of Heaven, cannot be heard.'
CHAP. X. The Master said, 'I have never seen a truly steadfast and resolute person.' Someone responded, 'What about Shan Ch'ang?' The Master replied, 'Ch'ang is swayed by his emotions; how can he be considered steadfast and resolute?' CHAP. XI. Tsze-kung said, 'I do not wish for others to treat me in ways I would not want, so I also wish to avoid treating others that way.' The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you have not reached that level yet.' CHAP. XII. Tsze-kung said, 'You can hear the Master's personal demonstrations of his principles and his general explanations of them. But his discussions about human nature and the ways of Heaven are beyond what can be heard.'
CHAP. XIII. When Tsze-lu heard anything, if he had not yet succeeded in carrying it into practice, he was only afraid lest he should hear something else. CHAP. XIV. Tsze-kung asked, saying, 'On what ground did Kung-wan get that title of Wan?' The Master said, 'He was of an active nature and yet fond of learning, and he was not ashamed to ask and learn of his inferiors!— On these grounds he has been styled Wan.' CHAP. XV. The Master said of Tsze-ch'an that he had four of the characteristics of a superior man:— in his conduct of himself, he was humble; in serving his superiors, he was respectful; in nourishing the people, he was kind; in ordering the people, he was just.'
CHAP. XIII. When Tsze-lu heard something, if he hadn’t yet put it into practice, he was only worried that he might hear something different. CHAP. XIV. Tsze-kung asked, “Why did Kung-wan get the title of Wan?” The Master replied, “He was naturally active and loved learning, and he was not ashamed to ask and learn from those beneath him!— For these reasons, he has been called Wan.” CHAP. XV. The Master said about Tsze-ch'an that he had four qualities of a superior person:— he was humble in how he conducted himself; respectful in serving his superiors; kind in caring for the people; and just in managing the people.
CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Yen P'ing knew well how to maintain friendly intercourse. The acquaintance might be long, but he showed the same respect as at first.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Tsang Wan kept a large tortoise in a house, on the capitals of the pillars of which he had hills made, and with representations of duckweed on the small pillars above the beams supporting the rafters.— Of what sort was his wisdom?' CHAP. XVIII. 1. Tsze-chang asked, saying, 'The minister Tsze- wan thrice took office, and manifested no joy in his countenance. Thrice he retired from office, and manifested no displeasure. He made it a point to inform the new minister of the way in which he had conducted the government;— what do you say of him?' The Master replied. 'He was loyal.' 'Was he perfectly virtuous?' 'I do not know. How can he be pronounced perfectly virtuous?' 2. Tsze-chang proceeded, 'When the officer Ch'ui killed the prince of Ch'i, Ch'an Wan, though he was the owner of forty horses, abandoned them and left the country. Coming to another State, he said, "They are here like our great officer, Ch'ui," and left it. He came to a second State, and with the same observation left it also;— what do you say of him?' The Master replied, 'He was pure.' 'Was he perfectly virtuous?' 'I do not know. How can he be pronounced perfectly virtuous?' CHAP. XIX. Chi Wan thought thrice, and then acted. When the Master was informed of it, he said, 'Twice may do.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'When good order prevailed in his country, Ning Wu acted the part of a wise man. When his country was in disorder, he acted the part of a stupid man. Others may equal his wisdom, but they cannot equal his stupidity.'
CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Yen P'ing knew how to keep friendly relationships going. Even if he had known someone for a long time, he still showed the same respect as he did at the beginning.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Tsang Wan kept a large tortoise in a house where the capitals of the pillars were made to look like hills, and the small pillars above the beams supporting the rafters were decorated with images of duckweed. — What kind of wisdom did he have?' CHAP. XVIII. 1. Tsze-chang asked, 'Minister Tsze-wan held office three times and never showed joy on his face. He stepped down three times and never showed displeasure. He always made it a point to inform the new minister how he ran the government — what do you think of him?' The Master replied, 'He was loyal.' 'Was he perfectly virtuous?' 'I don’t know. How can he be considered perfectly virtuous?' 2. Tsze-chang continued, 'When the officer Ch'ui killed the prince of Ch'i, Ch'an Wan, despite owning forty horses, left them behind and fled the country. When he reached another state, he said, "They are just like our officer, Ch'ui," and left. He went to a second state and made the same observation before leaving again — what do you think of him?' The Master replied, 'He was pure.' 'Was he perfectly virtuous?' 'I don’t know. How can he be considered perfectly virtuous?' CHAP. XIX. Chi Wan thought things over three times before acting. When the Master heard about it, he said, 'Twice might be enough.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'When there was good order in his country, Ning Wu behaved like a wise man. When his country was in chaos, he acted like a fool. Others might match his wisdom, but they can’t match his foolishness.'
CHAP. XXI. When the Master was in Ch'an, he said, 'Let me return! Let me return! The little children of my school are ambitious and too hasty. They are accomplished and complete so far, but they do not know how to restrict and shape themselves.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Po-i and Shu-ch'i did not keep the former wickednesses of men in mind, and hence the resentments directed towards them were few.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'Who says of Wei-shang Kao
CHAP. XXI. When the Master was in Ch'an, he said, 'I want to go back! I want to go back! The kids in my school are so eager and impatient. They’ve made great progress, but they don’t know how to discipline and control themselves.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Po-i and Shu-ch’i didn’t hold onto the past wrongs of others, so they faced very few grudges from people.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'Who speaks of Wei-shang Kao
that he is upright? One begged some vinegar of him, and he begged it of a neighbor and gave it to the man.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'Fine words, an insinuating appearance, and excessive respect;— Tso Ch'iu-ming was ashamed of them. I also am ashamed of them. To conceal resentment against a person, and appear friendly with him;— Tso Ch'iu-ming was ashamed of such conduct. I also am ashamed of it.' CHAP. XXV. 1. Yen Yuan and Chi Lu being by his side, the Master said to them, 'Come, let each of you tell his wishes.' 2. Tsze-lu said, 'I should like, having chariots and horses, and light fur dresses, to share them with my friends, and though they should spoil them, I would not be displeased.' 3. Yen Yuan said, 'I should like not to boast of my excellence, nor to make a display of my meritorious deeds.' 4. Tsze-lu then said, 'I should like, sir, to hear your wishes.' The Master said, 'They are, in regard to the aged, to give them rest; in regard to friends, to show them sincerity; in regard to the young, to treat them tenderly.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'It is all over! I have not yet seen one who could perceive his faults, and inwardly accuse himself.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'In a hamlet of ten families, there may be found one honourable and sincere as I am, but not so fond of learning.'
that he is honest? One asked him for some vinegar, and he asked a neighbor for it and gave it to the man.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'Beautiful words, a charming appearance, and excessive respect;— Tso Ch'iu-ming was embarrassed by them. I also feel the same way. To hide resentment against someone and act friendly with them;— Tso Ch'iu-ming was ashamed of this behavior. I also am ashamed of it.' CHAP. XXV. 1. Yen Yuan and Chi Lu were beside him, and the Master said to them, 'Come, each of you share your wishes.' 2. Tsze-lu said, 'I would like to have chariots and horses, and light fur clothing, to share them with my friends, and even if they get damaged, I wouldn’t be upset.' 3. Yen Yuan said, 'I would like to avoid boasting about my abilities, or showing off my good deeds.' 4. Tsze-lu then asked, 'Sir, I would like to hear your wishes.' The Master said, 'My wishes, regarding the elderly, are to give them rest; for friends, to show them sincerity; and for the young, to treat them kindly.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'It's all over! I have yet to meet someone who can recognize their faults and hold themselves accountable.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'In a village of ten families, there might be one person as honorable and sincere as I am, but not as eager to learn.'
BOOK VI. YUNG YEY.
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said, 'There is Yung!— He might occupy the place of a prince.' 2. Chung-kung asked about Tsze-sang Po-tsze. The Master said, 'He may pass. He does not mind small matters.' 3. Chung-kung said, 'If a man cherish in himself a reverential feeling of the necessity of attention to business, though he may be easy in small matters in his government of the people, that may be allowed. But if he cherish in himself that easy feeling, and also carry it out in his practice, is not such an easy mode of procedure excessive?' 4. The Master said, 'Yung's words are right.'
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said, 'There is Yung! He could serve as a prince.' 2. Chung-kung asked about Tsze-sang Po-tsze. The Master said, 'He is acceptable. He doesn’t get caught up in minor issues.' 3. Chung-kung said, 'If a person holds a deep respect for the importance of focusing on their responsibilities, then they can be lenient with small issues when leading the people, and that’s understandable. But if they have that relaxed attitude and apply it in their actions, isn’t that approach a bit excessive?' 4. The Master said, 'Yung's perspective is correct.'
CHAP. II. The Duke Ai asked which of the disciples loved to learn. Confucius replied to him, 'There was Yen Hui; HE loved to learn. He did not transfer his anger; he did not repeat a fault. Unfortunately, his appointed time was short and he died; and now there is not such another. I have not yet heard of any one who loves to learn as he did.' CHAP. III. 1. Tsze-hwa being employed on a mission to Ch'i, the disciple Zan requested grain for his mother. The Master said, 'Give her a fu.' Yen requested more. 'Give her an yu,' said the Master. Yen gave her five ping. 2. The Master said, 'When Ch'ih was proceeding to Ch'i, he had fat horses to his carriage, and wore light furs. I have heard that
CHAP. II. Duke Ai asked which of the disciples loved to learn. Confucius replied, "There was Yen Hui; he loved to learn. He didn't hold onto his anger, and he didn't make the same mistake twice. Unfortunately, his time was short, and he died; now there’s no one like him. I haven't come across anyone who loves to learn as much as he did." CHAP. III. 1. Tsze-hwa was sent on a mission to Ch'i, and the disciple Zan asked for grain for his mother. The Master said, "Give her a fu." Yen requested more. "Give her an yu," said the Master. Yen gave her five ping. 2. The Master said, "When Ch'ih was heading to Ch'i, he had fat horses pulling his carriage and wore light furs. I have heard that
a superior man helps the distressed, but does not add to the wealth of the rich.' 3. Yuan Sze being made governor of his town by the Master, he gave him nine hundred measures of grain, but Sze declined them. 4. The Master said, 'Do not decline them. May you not give them away in the neighborhoods, hamlets, towns, and villages?' CHAP. IV. The Master, speaking of Chung-kung, said, 'If the calf of a brindled cow be red and horned, although men may not wish to use it, would the spirits of the mountains and rivers put it aside?' CHAP. V. The Master said, 'Such was Hui that for three months there would be nothing in his mind contrary to perfect virtue. The others may attain to this on some days or in some months, but nothing more.'
A true man helps those in need but doesn’t contribute to the wealth of the rich. 3. When the Master appointed Yuan Sze as governor of his town, he gifted him nine hundred measures of grain, but Sze refused them. 4. The Master said, “Don’t refuse them. Can’t you distribute them in the neighborhoods, hamlets, towns, and villages?” CHAP. IV. The Master, speaking of Chung-kung, said, “If the calf of a brindled cow is red and has horns, even if people don’t want to use it, would the spirits of the mountains and rivers reject it?” CHAP. V. The Master said, “Hui was such that for three months, he had nothing in his mind that went against perfect virtue. Others may reach this state for some days or months, but not beyond that.”
CHAP. VI. Chi K'ang asked about Chung-yu, whether he was fit to be employed as an officer of government. The Master said, 'Yu is a man of decision; what difficulty would he find in being an officer of government?' K'ang asked, 'Is Ts'ze fit to be employed as an officer of government?' and was answered, 'Ts'ze is a man of intelligence; what difficulty would he find in being an officer of government?' And to the same question about Ch'iu the Master gave the same reply, saying, 'Ch'iu is a man of various ability.' CHAP. VII. The chief of the Chi family sent to ask Min Tsze- ch'ien to be governor of Pi. Min Tsze-ch'ien said, 'Decline the offer for me politely. If any one come again to me with a second invitation, I shall be obliged to go and live on the banks of the Wan.'
CHAP. VI. Chi K'ang asked about Chung-yu, whether he was suitable to serve as a government official. The Master said, 'Yu is a decisive person; what challenges would he face in being a government official?' K'ang then asked, 'Is Ts'ze suitable to serve as a government official?' The response was, 'Ts'ze is an intelligent person; what challenges would he face in being a government official?' When asked the same question about Ch'iu, the Master replied, 'Ch'iu is a person of diverse abilities.' CHAP. VII. The head of the Chi family sent to ask Min Tsze-ch'ien to be the governor of Pi. Min Tsze-ch'ien replied, 'Politely decline the offer for me. If anyone comes back with a second invitation, I will have to go and live by the banks of the Wan.'
CHAP. VIII. Po-niu being ill, the Master went to ask for him. He took hold of his hand through the window, and said, 'It is killing him. It is the appointment of Heaven, alas! That such a man should have such a sickness! That such a man should have such a sickness!' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'Admirable indeed was the virtue of Hui! With a single bamboo dish of rice, a single gourd dish of drink, and living in his mean narrow lane, while others could not have endured the distress, he did not allow his joy to be affected by it. Admirable indeed was the virtue of Hui!' CHAP. X. Yen Ch'iu said, 'It is not that I do not delight in your doctrines, but my strength is insufficient.' The Master said, 'Those whose strength is insufficient give over in the middle of the way but now you limit yourself.'
CHAP. VIII. When Po-niu was sick, the Master went to see him. He held his hand through the window and said, 'This is truly devastating. It's a decree from Heaven, alas! That such a man should have to suffer like this! That such a man should have to suffer like this!' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'Hui's virtue was truly remarkable! With just one bamboo dish of rice, one gourd of drink, and living in his modest, narrow alley, while others could not endure the hardship, he maintained his joy. Hui's virtue was truly remarkable!' CHAP. X. Yen Ch'iu said, 'It's not that I don't appreciate your teachings, but I lack the strength to follow them.' The Master replied, 'Those who lack strength give up halfway, but now you are holding yourself back.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said to Tsze-hsia, 'Do you be a scholar after the style of the superior man, and not after that of the mean man.' CHAP. XII. Tsze-yu being governor of Wu-ch'ang, the Master said to him, 'Have you got good men there?' He answered, 'There is Tan-t'ai Mieh-ming, who never in walking takes a short cut, and never comes to my office, excepting on public business.' CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'Mang Chih-fan does not boast of his merit. Being in the rear on an occasion of flight, when they were about to enter the gate, he whipped up his horse, saying, "It is not that I dare to be last. My horse would not advance."'
CHAP. XI. The Master said to Tsze-hsia, "Be a scholar like a superior person, not like an average one." CHAP. XII. When Tsze-yu was governor of Wu-ch'ang, the Master asked him, "Do you have good people there?" He replied, "There's Tan-t'ai Mieh-ming, who never takes shortcuts when walking and never comes to my office unless it's for official matters." CHAP. XIII. The Master said, "Mang Chih-fan doesn’t brag about his abilities. During a retreat, as they were about to enter the gate, he urged his horse forward, saying, 'It's not that I want to be last; my horse just won’t go any faster.'"
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'Without the specious speech of the litanist T'o and the beauty of the prince Chao of Sung, it is difficult to escape in the present age.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Who can go out but by the door? How is it that men will not walk according to these ways?' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Where the solid qualities are in excess of accomplishments, we have rusticity; where the accomplishments are in excess of the solid qualities, we have the manners of a clerk. When the accomplishments and solid qualities are equally blended, we then have the man of virtue.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Man is born for uprightness. If a man lose his uprightness, and yet live, his escape from death is the effect of mere good fortune.'
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'Without the flashy words of the litanist T'o and the charm of the prince Chao of Sung, it’s hard to stand out in today’s world.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Who can leave except through the door? Why is it that people won’t follow these paths?' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'When solid qualities outweigh skills, we have simplicity; when skills outweigh solid qualities, we have the characteristics of a clerk. When skills and solid qualities are balanced, we have a person of virtue.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Humans are born for integrity. If a person loses their integrity and still lives, their survival is just a matter of luck.'
CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'They who know the truth are not equal to those who love it, and they who love it are not equal to those who delight in it.' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'To those whose talents are above mediocrity, the highest subjects may be announced. To those who are below mediocrity, the highest subjects may not be announced.' CHAP. XX. Fan Ch'ih asked what constituted wisdom. The Master said, 'To give one's self earnestly to the duties due to men, and, while respecting spiritual beings, to keep aloof from them, may be called wisdom.' He asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'The man of virtue makes the difficulty to be overcome his first business, and success only a subsequent consideration;— this may be called perfect virtue.'
CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'Those who understand the truth aren’t as good as those who love it, and those who love it aren’t as good as those who take joy in it.' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'For those with greater talent, we can discuss the most important topics. For those with lesser talent, we cannot discuss the most important topics.' CHAP. XX. Fan Ch'ih asked what wisdom is. The Master said, 'To genuinely dedicate oneself to one’s responsibilities to others, and while respecting the spiritual realm, to keep a distance from it, can be considered wisdom.' He asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'A person of virtue focuses on overcoming challenges as their primary task, with success being a later thought; this can be called perfect virtue.'
CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'The wise find pleasure in water; the virtuous find pleasure in hills. The wise are active; the virtuous are tranquil. The wise are joyful; the virtuous are long-lived.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Ch'i, by one change, would come to the State of Lu. Lu, by one change, would come to a State where true principles predominated.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'A cornered vessel without corners.— A strange cornered vessel! A strange cornered vessel!' CHAP. XXIV. Tsai Wo asked, saying, 'A benevolent man, though it be told him,— 'There is a man in the well' will go in after him, I suppose.' Confucius said, 'Why should he do so?' A superior
CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'The wise enjoy water; the virtuous enjoy mountains. The wise are active; the virtuous are calm. The wise are happy; the virtuous live longer.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Ch'i, through one change, could reach the State of Lu. Lu, through one change, could become a State where true principles prevail.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'A vessel with corners but no corners.— What a peculiar vessel! What a peculiar vessel!' CHAP. XXIV. Tsai Wo asked, saying, 'A kind person, if he hears— 'There is a man in the well,' will surely go in after him, right?' Confucius said, 'Why would he do that?' A superior
man may be made to go to the well, but he cannot be made to go down into it. He may be imposed upon, but he cannot be fooled.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'The superior man, extensively studying all learning, and keeping himself under the restraint of the rules of propriety, may thus likewise not overstep what is right.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master having visited Nan-tsze, Tsze-lu was displeased, on which the Master swore, saying, 'Wherein I have done improperly, may Heaven reject me, may Heaven reject me!' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'Perfect is the virtue which is
man can be led to the well, but he can't be forced to go down into it. He can be deceived, but he can't be tricked.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'A noble person, who studies widely and follows the rules of decorum, can similarly avoid crossing the line of what is right.' CHAP. XXVI. After visiting Nan-tsze, Tsze-lu was upset, and the Master swore, saying, 'If I've acted wrongly, may Heaven reject me, may Heaven reject me!' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'The virtue that is perfect is
according to the Constant Mean! Rare for a long time has been its practise among the people.' CHAP. XXVIII. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Suppose the case of a man extensively conferring benefits on the people, and able to assist all, what would you say of him? Might he be called perfectly virtuous?' The Master said, 'Why speak only of virtue in connexion with him? Must he not have the qualities of a sage? Even Yao and Shun were still solicitous about this. 2. 'Now the man of perfect virtue, wishing to be established himself, seeks also to establish others; wishing to be enlarged himself, he seeks also to enlarge others. 3. 'To be able to judge of others by what is nigh in ourselves;— this may be called the art of virtue.'
according to the Constant Mean! It's been rare for a long time among the people. CHAP. XXVIII. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Imagine a man who is widely benefiting the people and can help everyone; what would you think of him? Could he be considered perfectly virtuous?' The Master replied, 'Why focus only on virtue related to him? Doesn't he also need the qualities of a sage? Even Yao and Shun were still concerned about this. 2. 'Now, a truly virtuous person, wanting to establish themselves, also seeks to support others; wanting to grow themselves, they also strive to help others grow. 3. 'Being able to judge others based on our own experiences—this can be called the art of virtue.'
BOOK VII. SHU R.
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'A transmitter and not a maker, believing in and loving the ancients, I venture to compare myself with our old P'ang.' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'The silent treasuring up of knowledge; learning without satiety; and instructing others without being wearied:— which one of these things belongs to me?' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'The leaving virtue without proper cultivation; the not thoroughly discussing what is learned; not being able to move towards righteousness of which a knowledge is gained; and not being able to change what is not good:— these are the things which occasion me solicitude.'
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'I’m a transmitter, not a creator. I believe in and admire the ancients, so I dare to compare myself to our old P'ang.' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'Quietly storing up knowledge; learning without ever getting enough; and teaching others without getting tired:— which of these applies to me?' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Neglecting virtue without proper care; not fully discussing what I’ve learned; being unable to pursue righteousness that I know about; and not being able to change what’s bad:— these are the things that worry me.'
CHAP. IV. When the Master was unoccupied with business, his
manner was easy, and he looked pleased.
CHAP. V. The Master said, 'Extreme is my decay. For a long
time, I have not dreamed, as I was wont to do, that I saw the duke
of Chau.'
CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'Let the will be set on the path
of duty.
2. 'Let every attainment in what is good be firmly grasped.
3. 'Let perfect virtue be accorded with.
4. 'Let relaxation and enjoyment be found in the polite arts.'
CHAP. IV. When the Master wasn't busy, he was relaxed and looked happy.
CHAP. V. The Master said, 'I'm fading fast. I haven't dreamed in a long time, like I used to, about seeing the duke of Chau.'
CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'Focus your will on your responsibilities.
2. 'Hold on to every achievement in doing what's good.
3. 'Pursue perfect virtue.
4. 'Find relaxation and joy in the arts of refinement.'
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'From the man bringing his bundle of dried flesh for my teaching upwards, I have never refused instruction to any one.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'I do not open up the truth to one who is not eager to get knowledge, nor help out any one who is not anxious to explain himself. When I have presented one corner of a subject to any one, and he cannot from it learn the other three, I do not repeat my lesson.' CHAP. IX. 1. When the Master was eating by the side of a mourner, he never ate to the full. 2. He did not sing on the same day in which he had been weeping. CHAP. X. 1. The Master said to Yen Yuan, 'When called to office, to undertake its duties; when not so called, to lie retired;— it is only I and you who have attained to this.' 2. Tsze-lu said, 'If you had the conduct of the armies of a great State, whom would you have to act with you?' 3. The Master said, 'I would not have him to act with me, who will unarmed attack a tiger, or cross a river without a boat, dying without any regret. My associate must be the man who proceeds to action full of solicitude, who is fond of adjusting his plans, and then carries them into execution.' CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If the search for riches is sure to be successful, though I should become a groom with whip in hand to get them, I will do so. As the search may not be successful, I will follow after that which I love.' CHAP. XII. The things in reference to which the Master exercised the greatest caution were — fasting, war, and sickness.
CHAP. VII. The Master said, "Since the man brought his bundle of dried meat for my teachings, I have never turned anyone away from instruction." CHAP. VIII. The Master said, "I don't share the truth with someone who's not eager to learn, nor do I help someone who's not willing to express themselves. When I show someone one corner of a topic, and they can't figure out the other three from that, I don't repeat my lesson." CHAP. IX. 1. When the Master was eating next to someone in mourning, he never ate his fill. 2. He wouldn't sing on the same day he had been crying. CHAP. X. 1. The Master said to Yen Yuan, "When called to take office, fulfill its duties; when not called, remain in seclusion—only you and I have achieved this." 2. Tsze-lu asked, "If you were in charge of a great state's armies, who would you want to work with you?" 3. The Master replied, "I wouldn't want anyone who would recklessly attack a tiger unarmed or cross a river without a boat, dying without a second thought. My companion must be someone who approaches action with care, who enjoys planning, and then follows through." CHAP. XI. The Master said, "If the pursuit of wealth is guaranteed to succeed, even if I have to become a stable hand with a whip to acquire it, I would do that. But since success is not guaranteed, I will pursue what I truly love." CHAP. XII. The areas where the Master was most cautious were—fasting, war, and illness.
CHAP. XIII. When the Master was in Ch'i, he heard the Shao, and for three months did not know the taste of flesh. 'I did not think'' he said, 'that music could have been made so excellent as this.' CHAP. XIV. 1. Yen Yu said, 'Is our Master for the ruler of Wei?' Tsze-kung said, 'Oh! I will ask him.' 2. He went in accordingly, and said, 'What sort of men were Po-i and Shu-ch'i?' 'They were ancient worthies,' said the Master. 'Did they have any repinings because of their course?' The Master again replied, 'They sought to act virtuously, and they did so; what was there for them to repine about?' On this, Tsze-kung went out and said, 'Our Master is not for him.'
CHAP. XIII. When the Master was in Ch'i, he heard the Shao, and for three months he didn’t eat meat. 'I never thought,' he said, 'that music could be this great.' CHAP. XIV. 1. Yen Yu asked, 'Is our Master for the ruler of Wei?' Tsze-kung said, 'Oh! I’ll ask him.' 2. He went in and said, 'What were Po-i and Shu-ch'i like?' 'They were ancient virtuous men,' said the Master. 'Did they ever regret their choices?' The Master replied, 'They aimed to act virtuously, and they did; what was there for them to regret?' With that, Tsze-kung left and said, 'Our Master is not for him.'
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'With coarse rice to eat, with water to drink, and my bended arm for a pillow;— I have still joy in the midst of these things. Riches and honours acquired by unrighteousness, are to me as a floating cloud.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'If some years were added to my life, I would give fifty to the study of the Yi, and then I might come to be without great faults.' CHAP. XVII The Master's frequent themes of discourse were— the Odes, the History, and the maintenance of the Rules of Propriety. On all these he frequently discoursed.
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'With plain rice to eat, with water to drink, and my bent arm for a pillow;— I still find joy in these things. Wealth and honor gained through wrongdoing are to me like a passing cloud.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'If I could add some years to my life, I would dedicate fifty to studying the Yi, and then I might become without major faults.' CHAP. XVII The Master's regular topics of discussion were— the Odes, History, and upholding the Rules of Propriety. He often talked about all of these.
CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Duke of Sheh asked Tsze-lu about Confucius, and Tsze-lu did not answer him. 2. The Master said, 'Why did you not say to him,— He is simply a man, who in his eager pursuit (of knowledge) forgets his food, who in the joy of its attainment forgets his sorrows, and who does not perceive that old age is coming on?' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'I am not one who was born in the possession of knowledge; I am one who is fond of antiquity, and earnest in seeking it there.' CHAP. XX. The subjects on which the Master did not talk, were— extraordinary things, feats of strength, disorder, and spiritual beings.
CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Duke of Sheh asked Tsze-lu about Confucius, but Tsze-lu didn’t respond. 2. The Master said, ‘Why didn’t you tell him— He’s just a person who, in his passionate pursuit of knowledge, forgets to eat, who, in the joy of gaining it, forgets his troubles, and who doesn’t realize that old age is approaching?’ CHAP. XIX. The Master said, ‘I wasn’t born with knowledge; I have a love for the past and am dedicated to seeking it out.’ CHAP. XX. The subjects the Master avoided discussing were— extraordinary events, displays of strength, chaos, and spiritual beings.
CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'When I walk along with two others, they may serve me as my teachers. I will select their good qualities and follow them, their bad qualities and avoid them.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Heaven produced the virtue that is in me. Hwan T'ui— what can he do to me?' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'Do you think, my disciples, that I have any concealments? I conceal nothing from you. There is nothing which I do that is not shown to you, my disciples;— that is my way.' CHAP. XXIV. There were four things which the Master taught,— letters, ethics, devotion of soul, and truthfulness.
CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'When I walk with two others, they can teach me. I'll pick out their good qualities and follow them, and their bad qualities and avoid them.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Heaven gave me the virtue I have. Hwan T'ui— what can he do to me?' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'Do you think, my students, that I have any secrets? I keep nothing from you. There's nothing I do that I don't show you, my students; that's how I am.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master taught four things— writing, ethics, dedication, and honesty.
CHAP. XXV. 1. The Master said, 'A sage it is not mine to see; could I see a man of real talent and virtue, that would satisfy me.' 2. The Master said, 'A good man it is not mine to see; could I see a man possessed of constancy, that would satisfy me. 3. 'Having not and yet affecting to have, empty and yet affecting to be full, straitened and yet affecting to be at ease:— it is difficult with such characteristics to have constancy.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master angled,— but did not use a net. He shot,— but not at birds perching. CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'There may be those who act without knowing why. I do not do so. Hearing much and selecting what is good and following it; seeing much and keeping it in memory:— this is the second style of knowledge.'
CHAP. XXV. 1. The Master said, 'I don’t get to see a wise person; if I could see someone with real talent and virtue, that would make me happy.' 2. The Master said, 'I don’t get to see a good person; if I could see someone with true determination, that would make me happy.' 3. 'Not having something but pretending to have it, being empty but pretending to be full, feeling restricted but pretending to be relaxed:— it's hard to have true determination with such traits.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master fished,— but didn’t use a net. He shot,— but not at birds that were resting. CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'Some people may act without knowing why. I don’t do that. I hear a lot, choose what’s good, and follow it; I see much and remember it:— this is the second kind of knowledge.'
CHAP. XXVIII. 1. It was difficult to talk (profitably and reputably) with the people of Hu-hsiang, and a lad of that place having had an interview with the Master, the disciples doubted. 2. The Master said, 'I admit people's approach to me without committing myself as to what they may do when they have retired. Why must one be so severe? If a man purify himself to wait upon me, I receive him so purified, without guaranteeing his past conduct.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'Is virtue a thing remote? I wish to be virtuous, and lo! virtue is at hand.' CHAP. XXX. 1. The minister of crime of Ch'an asked whether the duke Chao knew propriety, and Confucius said, 'He knew propriety.' 2. Confucius having retired, the minister bowed to Wu-ma Ch'i
CHAP. XXVIII. 1. It was hard to have meaningful and respectable conversations with the people of Hu-hsiang, and after a young man from there met with the Master, the disciples were unsure. 2. The Master said, 'I welcome people who come to me, but I don't make any commitments about what they will do once they leave. Why be so harsh? If someone comes to serve me with good intentions, I accept them as they are, without judging their past actions.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'Is virtue something far away? I want to be virtuous, and look! Virtue is right here.' CHAP. XXX. 1. The minister of crime from Ch'an asked if Duke Chao understood propriety, and Confucius replied, 'He understood propriety.' 2. After Confucius left, the minister bowed to Wu-ma Ch'i.
to come forward, and said, 'I have heard that the superior man is not a partisan. May the superior man be a partisan also? The prince married a daughter of the house of Wu, of the same surname with himself, and called her,— "The elder Tsze of Wu." If the prince knew propriety, who does not know it?' 3. Wu-ma Ch'i reported these remarks, and the Master said, 'I am fortunate! If I have any errors, people are sure to know them.' CHAP. XXXI. When the Master was in company with a person who was singing, if he sang well, he would make him repeat the song, while he accompanied it with his own voice. CHAP. XXXII. The Master said, 'In letters I am perhaps equal to other men, but the character of the superior man, carrying out in his conduct what he professes, is what I have not yet attained to.'
to come forward, and said, 'I've heard that a truly noble person isn't biased. Can a noble person also take sides? The prince married a daughter from the Wu family, with the same surname, and called her— "The elder Tsze of Wu." If the prince understood what’s proper, then who doesn’t know it?' 3. Wu-ma Ch'i reported these remarks, and the Master said, 'I am lucky! If I have any mistakes, people are sure to spot them.' CHAP. XXXI. When the Master was with someone who was singing, if he sang well, the Master would ask him to repeat the song while he joined in with his own voice. CHAP. XXXII. The Master said, 'In writing, I might be on par with others, but the true character of a noble person, who acts in accordance with their beliefs, is something I have yet to achieve.'
CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, 'The sage and the man of perfect virtue;— how dare I rank myself with them? It may simply be said of me, that I strive to become such without satiety, and teach others without weariness.' Kung-hsi Hwa said, 'This is just what we, the disciples, cannot imitate you in.' CHAP. XXXIV. The Master being very sick, Tsze-lu asked leave to pray for him. He said, 'May such a thing be done?' Tsze-lu replied, 'It may. In the Eulogies it is said, "Prayer has been made for thee to the spirits of the upper and lower worlds."' The Master said, 'My praying has been for a long time.'
CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, 'The wise person and the truly virtuous individual—how can I even consider ranking myself with them? All I can say is that I strive to become like them without ever feeling satisfied, and I teach others without feeling tired.' Kung-hsi Hwa said, 'This is exactly what we, your disciples, cannot replicate.' CHAP. XXXIV. The Master was very ill, and Tsze-lu asked if he could pray for him. The Master asked, 'Can that be done?' Tsze-lu replied, 'Yes, it can. In the Eulogies, it says, "Prayer has been made for you to the spirits of the upper and lower worlds."' The Master said, 'I have been praying for a long time.'
CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, 'Extravagance leads to insubordination, and parsimony to meanness. It is better to be mean than to be insubordinate.' CHAP. XXXVI. The Master said, 'The superior man is satisfied and composed; the mean man is always full of distress.' CHAP. XXXVII. The Master was mild, and yet dignified; majestic, and yet not fierce; respectful, and yet easy.
CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, 'Being extravagant leads to trouble, and being too stingy makes you mean. It's better to be mean than to cause chaos.' CHAP. XXXVI. The Master said, 'A truly good person is content and calm; a mean person constantly feels unhappy.' CHAP. XXXVII. The Master was gentle, yet had dignity; impressive, but not intimidating; respectful, yet approachable.
BOOK VIII. T'AI-PO.
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'T'ai-po may be said to have reached the highest point of virtuous action. Thrice he declined the kingdom, and the people in ignorance of his motives could not express their approbation of his conduct.'
CHAP. I. The Master said, 'T'ai-po is known to have reached the peak of moral behavior. He turned down the throne three times, and the people, unaware of his reasons, couldn't show their approval of his actions.'
CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Respectfulness, without the rules of propriety, becomes laborious bustle; carefulness, without the rules of propriety, becomes timidity; boldness, without the rules of propriety, becomes insubordination; straightforwardness, without the rules of propriety, becomes rudeness. 2. 'When those who are in high stations perform well all their duties to their relations, the people are aroused to virtue. When old friends are not neglected by them, the people are preserved from meanness.' CHAP. III. The philosopher Tsang being ill, he called to him the disciples of his school, and said, 'Uncover my feet, uncover my hands. It is said in the Book of Poetry, "We should be apprehensive and cautious, as if on the brink of a deep gulf, as if treading on thin ice," and so have I been. Now and hereafter, I know my escape from all injury to my person, O ye, my little children.'
CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Respect without proper etiquette turns into chaotic fuss; care without proper etiquette leads to anxiety; confidence without proper etiquette leads to rebellion; honesty without proper etiquette comes off as crudeness. 2. 'When those in high positions fulfill their responsibilities to their families, it inspires the people to act virtuously. When they don’t neglect old friends, it keeps the people from falling into pettiness.' CHAP. III. The philosopher Tsang, being unwell, called his students and said, 'Uncover my feet and my hands. The Book of Poetry says, "We should be wary and careful, as if standing at the edge of a deep pit, as if walking on thin ice," and that has been my mindset. Now and in the future, I know I will avoid harm to my health, my dear children.'
CHAP. IV. 1. The philosopher Tsang being ill, Meng Chang went to ask how he was. 2. Tsang said to him, 'When a bird is about to die, its notes are mournful; when a man is about to die, his words are good. 3. 'There are three principles of conduct which the man of high rank should consider specially important:— that in his deportment and manner he keep from violence and heedlessness; that in regulating his countenance he keep near to sincerity; and that in his words and tones he keep far from lowness and impropriety. As to such matters as attending to the sacrificial vessels, there are the proper officers for them.'
CHAP. IV. 1. The philosopher Tsang was sick, so Meng Chang went to check on him. 2. Tsang said, "When a bird is about to die, its songs are sad; when a person is about to die, their words are wise. 3. "There are three principles of conduct that a person of high status should consider especially important:— to avoid violence and recklessness in their behavior; to maintain sincerity in their expressions; and to steer clear of lowliness and bad manners in their speech and tone. As for things like managing the sacrificial vessels, that’s what the designated officers are for."
CHAP. V. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Gifted with ability, and yet putting questions to those who were not so; possessed of much, and yet putting questions to those possessed of little; having, as though he had not; full, and yet counting himself as empty; offended against, and yet entering into no altercation; formerly I had a friend who pursued this style of conduct.' CHAP. VI. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Suppose that there is an individual who can be entrusted with the charge of a young orphan prince, and can be commissioned with authority over a state of a hundred li, and whom no emergency however great can drive from his principles:— is such a man a superior man? He is a superior man indeed.' CHAP. VII. 1. The philosopher Tsang said, 'The officer may not be without breadth of mind and vigorous endurance. His burden is heavy and his course is long.
CHAP. V. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Someone who is talented but still asks questions of those who aren't; someone who has a lot but still questions those who have little; acting as if he has nothing when he's actually full; wronged and yet never argues back; I once had a friend who lived this way.' CHAP. VI. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Imagine a person who can be trusted to care for a young orphan prince and is given authority over a state of a hundred li, someone who can’t be swayed from his principles no matter the situation:— is this person a superior individual? He truly is a superior individual.' CHAP. VII. 1. The philosopher Tsang said, 'An officer must have a broad mind and strong endurance. His responsibilities are heavy and his path is long.'
2. 'Perfect virtue is the burden which he considers it is his to sustain;— is it not heavy? Only with death does his course stop;— is it not long? CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'It is by the Odes that the mind is aroused. 2. 'It is by the Rules of Propriety that the character is established. 3. 'It is from Music that the finish is received.' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'The people may be made to follow a path of action, but they may not be made to understand it.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'The man who is fond of daring and is dissatisfied with poverty, will proceed to insubordination. So will the man who is not virtuous, when you carry your dislike of him to an extreme.'
2. 'Perfect virtue is the weight he feels responsible for carrying; — isn’t it heavy? His journey only ends with death; — isn’t it a long one? CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'It is through the Odes that the mind is stirred. 2. 'It is through the Rules of Propriety that character is built. 3. 'It is from Music that refinement is gained.' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'People can be guided to take action, but they cannot be made to truly understand it.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'A person who loves to take risks and is unhappy with being poor will become rebellious. The same goes for someone who lacks virtue when your dislike for him goes too far.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'Though a man have abilities as admirable as those of the Duke of Chau, yet if he be proud and niggardly, those other things are really not worth being looked at.' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'It is not easy to find a man who has learned for three years without coming to be good.' CHAP. XIII. 1. The Master said, 'With sincere faith he unites the love of learning; holding firm to death, he is perfecting the excellence of his course. 2. 'Such an one will not enter a tottering State, nor dwell in a disorganized one. When right principles of government prevail in the kingdom, he will show himself; when they are prostrated, he will keep concealed. 3. 'When a country is well-governed, poverty and a mean condition are things to be ashamed of. When a country is ill- governed, riches and honour are things to be ashamed of.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'Even if a person has abilities as impressive as those of the Duke of Chau, if they are arrogant and greedy, those other qualities aren’t worth considering.' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'It’s rare to find someone who has been learning for three years without becoming a good person.' CHAP. XIII. 1. The Master said, 'With genuine faith, he combines a love for learning; holding firm to his principles even in the face of death, he is perfecting his path. 2. 'Such a person will not enter a shaky state or live in a disordered one. When right principles of government are upheld in the kingdom, he will step forward; when they are down, he will stay hidden. 3. 'When a country is well-governed, being poor or in a low position is something to be ashamed of. When a country is poorly governed, being wealthy and prestigious is something to be ashamed of.'
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'He who is not in any particular office, has nothing to do with plans for the administration of its duties.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'When the music master Chih first entered on his office, the finish of the Kwan Tsu was magnificent;— how it filled the ears!' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Ardent and yet not upright; stupid and yet not attentive; simple and yet not sincere:— such persons I do not understand.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Learn as if you could not reach your object, and were always fearing also lest you should lose it.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'How majestic was the manner in which Shun and Yu held possession of the empire, as if it were nothing to them!'
CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'If you're not in a specific role, you shouldn't be involved in the planning of its responsibilities.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'When the music master Chih first started his role, the performance of the Kwan Tsu was stunning;— it was so captivating!' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Eager yet not honest; oblivious yet not focused; naive yet not genuine:— I can't relate to people like this.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Learn as if you can never achieve your goal, and always be worried about losing it.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'How impressive was the way Shun and Yu governed the empire, as if it were of no concern to them!'
CHAP. XIX. 1. The Master said, 'Great indeed was Yao as a sovereign! How majestic was he! It is only Heaven that is grand, and only Yao corresponded to it. How vast was his virtue! The people could find no name for it. 2. 'How majestic was he in the works which he accomplished! How glorious in the elegant regulations which he instituted!' CHAP. XX. 1. Shun had five ministers, and the empire was well-governed. 2. King Wu said, 'I have ten able ministers.' 3. Confucius said, 'Is not the saying that talents are difficult to find, true? Only when the dynasties of T'ang and Yu met, were they more abundant than in this of Chau, yet there was a woman among them. The able ministers were no more than nine men.
CHAP. XIX. 1. The Master said, 'Yao was truly a great ruler! How impressive he was! Only Heaven can match his greatness, and Yao was the only one who lived up to it. His virtue was immense! The people couldn't even find a word for it. 2. 'How impressive he was in the achievements he made! How glorious in the refined rules he established!' CHAP. XX. 1. Shun had five ministers, and the kingdom was well-managed. 2. King Wu said, 'I have ten capable ministers.' 3. Confucius said, 'Isn't the saying that it's hard to find talent true? Only when the dynasties of T’ang and Yu came together was there more talent than in this dynasty of Chau, and there was a woman among them. The capable ministers numbered no more than nine.'
4. 'King Wan possessed two of the three parts of the empire, and with those he served the dynasty of Yin. The virtue of the house of Chau may be said to have reached the highest point indeed.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'I can find no flaw in the character of Yu. He used himself coarse food and drink, but displayed the utmost filial piety towards the spirits. His ordinary garments were poor, but he displayed the utmost elegance in his sacrificial cap and apron. He lived in a low mean house, but expended all his strength on the ditches and water-channels. I can find nothing like a flaw in Yu.'
4. "King Wan held two of the three parts of the empire, and with those, he served the Yin dynasty. The virtue of the Chau family can truly be said to have reached the highest point." CHAP. XXI. The Master said, "I see no flaws in Yu's character. He ate simple food and drank basic drinks, but he showed the highest level of respect to the spirits. His everyday clothes were humble, but he appeared very refined in his sacrificial cap and apron. He lived in a modest house, but dedicated all his energy to maintaining the ditches and water channels. I can't find anything wrong with Yu."
BOOK IX. TSZE HAN.
CHAP. I. The subjects of which the Master seldom spoke were— profitableness, and also the appointments of Heaven, and perfect virtue. CHAP. II. 1. A man of the village of Ta-hsiang said, 'Great indeed is the philosopher K'ung! His learning is extensive, and yet he does not render his name famous by any particular thing.' 2. The Master heard the observation, and said to his disciples, 'What shall I practise? Shall I practise charioteering, or shall I practise archery? I will practise charioteering.'
CHAP. I. The topics that the Master rarely discussed were— usefulness, the will of Heaven, and true virtue. CHAP. II. 1. A man from the village of Ta-hsiang said, 'The philosopher K'ung is truly impressive! His knowledge is vast, yet he doesn't make his name famous for any specific reason.' 2. The Master heard this remark and said to his students, 'What should I practice? Should I practice driving a chariot, or should I practice archery? I will practice driving a chariot.'
CHAP. III. 1. The Master said, 'The linen cap is that prescribed by the rules of ceremony, but now a silk one is worn. It is economical, and I follow the common practice. 2. 'The rules of ceremony prescribe the bowing below the hall, but now the practice is to bow only after ascending it. That is arrogant. I continue to bow below the hall, though I oppose the common practice.' CHAP. IV. There were four things from which the Master was entirely free. He had no foregone conclusions, no arbitrary predeterminations, no obstinacy, and no egoism. CHAP. V. 1. The Master was put in fear in K'wang. 2. He said, 'After the death of King Wan, was not the cause of truth lodged here in me?
CHAP. III. 1. The Master said, 'The linen cap is what the rules of ceremony recommend, but now people wear a silk one. It's practical, and I go along with what everyone else does. 2. 'The rules of ceremony say to bow below the hall, but nowadays, people only bow after they go inside. That’s arrogant. I still bow below the hall, even though I disagree with the common practice.' CHAP. IV. The Master was completely free from four things: he had no preconceived notions, no arbitrary decisions, no stubbornness, and no self-importance. CHAP. V. 1. The Master felt afraid in K'wang. 2. He said, 'After King Wan died, wasn't the cause of truth entrusted to me?'
3. 'If Heaven had wished to let this cause of truth perish, then I, a future mortal, should not have got such a relation to that cause. While Heaven does not let the cause of truth perish, what can the people of K'wang do to me?' CHAP. VI. 1. A high officer asked Tsze-kung, saying, 'May we not say that your Master is a sage? How various is his ability!' 2. Tsze-kung said, 'Certainly Heaven has endowed him unlimitedly. He is about a sage. And, moreover, his ability is various.' 3. The Master heard of the conversation and said, 'Does the high officer know me? When I was young, my condition was low, and therefore I acquired my ability in many things, but they were mean matters. Must the superior man have such variety of ability? He does not need variety of ability.' 4. Lao said, 'The Master said, "Having no official employment, I acquired many arts."'
3. "If Heaven had wanted this cause of truth to fade away, then I, a future human, wouldn’t have developed such a connection to it. Since Heaven allows the cause of truth to persist, what can the people of K'wang do to me?" CHAP. VI. 1. A high officer asked Tsze-kung, "Can we say that your Master is a sage? His abilities are so diverse!" 2. Tsze-kung replied, "Heaven has certainly given him boundless gifts. He’s close to being a sage. Plus, his skills are varied." 3. The Master overheard the conversation and said, "Does the high officer really know me? When I was young, I was from a low background, so I gained my skills in many things, but they were insignificant. Does a superior person need to have such a variety of skills? He doesn’t need that diversity." 4. Lao said, "The Master said, 'Without any official position, I learned many different skills.'"
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'Am I indeed possessed of knowledge? I am not knowing. But if a mean person, who appears quite empty-like, ask anything of me, I set it forth from one end to the other, and exhaust it.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'The FANG bird does not come; the river sends forth no map:— it is all over with me!' CHAP. IX. When the Master saw a person in a mourning dress, or any one with the cap and upper and lower garments of full dress, or a blind person, on observing them approaching, though they were younger than himself, he would rise up, and if he had to pass by them, he would do so hastily.
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'Do I really have knowledge? I don't really know. But if an average person, who seems totally clueless, asks me something, I explain everything from beginning to end and cover all the details.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'The FANG bird doesn’t come; the river doesn’t provide a map:— it’s the end for me!' CHAP. IX. When the Master saw someone in mourning clothes, or anyone wearing formal attire, or a blind person, if he noticed them approaching, even if they were younger than him, he would stand up, and if he had to walk past them, he would do so quickly.
CHAP. X. 1. Yen Yuan, in admiration of the Master's doctrines, sighed and said, 'I looked up to them, and they seemed to become more high; I tried to penetrate them, and they seemed to become more firm; I looked at them before me, and suddenly they seemed to be behind. 2. 'The Master, by orderly method, skilfully leads men on. He enlarged my mind with learning, and taught me the restraints of propriety. 3. 'When I wish to give over the study of his doctrines, I cannot do so, and having exerted all my ability, there seems something to stand right up before me; but though I wish to follow and lay hold of it, I really find no way to do so.' CHAP. XI. 1. The Master being very ill, Tsze-lu wished the disciples to act as ministers to him. 2. During a remission of his illness, he said, 'Long has the conduct of Yu been deceitful! By pretending to have ministers when I have them not, whom should I impose upon? Should I impose upon Heaven?
CHAP. X. 1. Yen Yuan, in admiration of the Master's teachings, sighed and said, 'I looked up to them, and they seemed to rise higher; I tried to understand them, and they appeared to get firmer; I looked at them in front of me, and suddenly they seemed to be behind me. 2. 'The Master, with a systematic approach, skillfully guides people. He expanded my mind with knowledge and taught me the limits of proper behavior. 3. 'When I want to stop studying his teachings, I can't bring myself to do it, and no matter how hard I try, there seems to be something directly in front of me; but even though I want to reach out and grasp it, I truly can't find a way to do so.' CHAP. XI. 1. The Master was very ill, and Tsze-lu wanted the disciples to serve him. 2. During a brief improvement in his condition, he said, 'Yu's behavior has been so deceptive! By pretending to have ministers when I actually don't, who would I be fooling? Should I deceive Heaven?
3. 'Moreover, than that I should die in the hands of ministers, is it not better that I should die in the hands of you, my disciples? And though I may not get a great burial, shall I die upon the road?' CHAP. XII. Tsze-kung said, 'There is a beautiful gem here. Should I lay it up in a case and keep it? or should I seek for a good price and sell it?' The Master said, 'Sell it! Sell it! But I would wait for one to offer the price.' CHAP. XIII. 1. The Master was wishing to go and live among the nine wild tribes of the east. 2. Some one said, 'They are rude. How can you do such a thing?' The Master said, 'If a superior man dwelt among them, what rudeness would there be?' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'I returned from Wei to Lu, and then the music was reformed, and the pieces in the Royal songs and Praise songs all found their proper places.'
3. 'Anyway, isn’t it better for me to die at the hands of you, my disciples, than to die in the hands of ministers? And even if I don’t get a grand burial, would I rather die on the road?' CHAP. XII. Tsze-kung said, 'There's a beautiful gem here. Should I put it in a case and keep it safe, or should I try to find a good price and sell it?' The Master said, 'Sell it! Sell it! But I would wait for someone to offer the right price.' CHAP. XIII. 1. The Master wanted to go live among the nine wild tribes of the east. 2. Someone said, 'They’re rough. How can you even think of doing that?' The Master replied, 'If a true gentleman lived among them, what rudeness would there be?' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'When I returned from Wei to Lu, the music was reformed, and the pieces in the Royal songs and Praise songs were all set in their proper places.'
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Abroad, to serve the high ministers and nobles; at home, to serve one's father and elder brothers; in all duties to the dead, not to dare not to exert one's self; and not to be overcome of wine:— which one of these things do I attain to?' CHAP. XVI. The Master standing by a stream, said, 'It passes on just like this, not ceasing day or night!' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'I have not seen one who loves virtue as he loves beauty.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'The prosecution of learning may be compared to what may happen in raising a mound. If there want but one basket of earth to complete the work, and I stop, the
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'When I'm abroad, I serve high officials and nobles; at home, I serve my father and older brothers; in all responsibilities to the deceased, I have to give my all; and I won’t let alcohol take over me:— which of these have I achieved?' CHAP. XVI. The Master, standing by a stream, said, 'It flows on just like this, never stopping day or night!' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'I haven't seen anyone who loves virtue as much as they love beauty.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'Pursuing knowledge is like building a mound. If I’m just one basket of earth short of finishing the job and I stop, the
stopping is my own work. It may be compared to throwing down the earth on the level ground. Though but one basketful is thrown at a time, the advancing with it is my own going forward.' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'Never flagging when I set forth anything to him;— ah! that is Hui.' CHAP. XX. The Master said of Yen Yuan, 'Alas! I saw his constant advance. I never saw him stop in his progress.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'There are cases in which the blade springs, but the plant does not go on to flower! There are cases where it flowers, but no fruit is subsequently produced!' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'A youth is to be regarded with respect. How do we know that his future will not be equal to our present? If he reach the age of forty or fifty, and has not made himself heard of, then indeed he will not be worth being regarded with respect.'
Stopping is my own work. It can be likened to placing earth on flat ground. Even though I only throw one basketful at a time, pushing forward with it is my own progress. CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'I never tire when I share anything with him;— ah! that’s Hui.' CHAP. XX. The Master said of Yen Yuan, 'Alas! I witnessed his steady progress. I never saw him halt in his advancement.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'There are times when the blade grows, but the plant doesn’t go on to bloom! There are also times when it blooms, but no fruit comes afterward!' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'A youth should be treated with respect. How do we know his future won’t be as good as our present? If he reaches the age of forty or fifty and hasn’t made a name for himself, then indeed he won’t be deserving of respect.'
CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Can men refuse to assent to the words of strict admonition? But it is reforming the conduct because of them which is valuable. Can men refuse to be pleased with words of gentle advice? But it is unfolding their aim which is valuable. If a man be pleased with these words, but does not unfold their aim, and assents to those, but does not reform his conduct, I can really do nothing with him.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles. Have no friends not equal to yourself. When you have faults, do not fear to abandon them.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'The commander of the forces of a large state may be carried off, but the will of even a common man cannot be taken from him.'
CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Can people really ignore strict warnings? But what truly matters is changing behavior because of them. Can people really turn away from gentle advice? But what matters is understanding their purpose. If someone appreciates these words but doesn’t understand their purpose, and agrees with strict warnings but doesn’t change their behavior, there’s really nothing I can do for them.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'Value loyalty and honesty as your core principles. Don’t associate with people who aren’t on your level. When you make mistakes, don’t hesitate to admit them and move on.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'The leader of a large state may be taken away, but no one can take away the will of even an ordinary person.'
CHAP. XXVI. 1. The Master said, 'Dressed himself in a tattered robe quilted with hemp, yet standing by the side of men dressed in furs, and not ashamed;— ah! it is Yu who is equal to this! 2. '"He dislikes none, he covets nothing;— what can he do but what is good!"' 3. Tsze-lu kept continually repeating these words of the ode, when the Master said, 'Those things are by no means sufficient to constitute (perfect) excellence.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'When the year becomes cold, then we know how the pine and the cypress are the last to lose their leaves.' CHAP. XXVIII. The Master said, 'The wise are free from perplexities; the virtuous from anxiety; and the bold from fear.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'There are some with whom we may study in common, but we shall find them unable to go along
CHAP. XXVI. 1. The Master said, 'Wearing a worn-out robe made of hemp, yet standing among people dressed in furs, and feeling no shame—ah! it is Yu who can do this! 2. '"He doesn’t dislike anyone, he doesn’t desire anything;—what else can he do but what is good!"' 3. Tsze-lu kept repeating these words from the ode, when the Master said, 'These qualities alone are not enough for true excellence.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'When the year turns cold, we see how the pine and the cypress are the last to shed their leaves.' CHAP. XXVIII. The Master said, 'The wise are free from confusion; the virtuous from worry; and the brave from fear.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'There are some whom we can study alongside, but we will find them unable to keep up.'
with us to principles. Perhaps we may go on with them to principles, but we shall find them unable to get established in those along with us. Or if we may get so established along with them, we shall find them unable to weigh occurring events along with us.' CHAP. XXX. 1. How the flowers of the aspen-plum flutter and turn! Do I not think of you? But your house is distant. 2. The Master said, 'It is the want of thought about it. How is it distant?'
with us to principles. Maybe we can move forward with them to principles, but we’ll discover they can't settle into those alongside us. Or if we manage to get established with them, we’ll find they can’t assess the events happening with us. CHAP. XXX. 1. How the flowers of the aspen-plum flutter and turn! Do I not think of you? But your house is far away. 2. The Master said, 'It’s the lack of thinking about it. How is it far away?'
BOOK X. HEANG TANG.
CHAP. I. 1. Confucius, in his village, looked simple and sincere, and as if he were not able to speak. 2. When he was in the prince's ancestorial temple, or in the court, he spoke minutely on every point, but cautiously. CHAP II. 1. When he was waiting at court, in speaking with the great officers of the lower grade, he spake freely, but in a straightforward manner; in speaking with those of the higher grade, he did so blandly, but precisely. 2. When the ruler was present, his manner displayed respectful uneasiness; it was grave, but self-possessed.
CHAP. I. 1. Confucius, in his village, appeared simple and sincere, as if he couldn’t speak. 2. When he was in the prince's ancestral temple or in the court, he spoke in detail about every point, but with caution. CHAP II. 1. While waiting at court, he spoke freely with the lower-ranking officials, but in a straightforward way; with those of higher rank, he spoke smoothly but accurately. 2. When the ruler was present, his demeanor showed respectful discomfort; it was serious, yet composed.
CHAP. III. 1. When the prince called him to employ him in the reception of a visitor, his countenance appeared to change, and his legs to move forward with difficulty. 2. He inclined himself to the other officers among whom he stood, moving his left or right arm, as their position required, but keeping the skirts of his robe before and behind evenly adjusted. 3. He hastened forward, with his arms like the wings of a bird. 4. When the guest had retired, he would report to the prince, 'The visitor is not turning round any more.' CHAP. IV. 1. When he entered the palace gate, he seemed to bend his body, as if it were not sufficient to admit him. 2. When he was standing, he did not occupy the middle of the gate-way; when he passed in or out, he did not tread upon the threshold. 3. When he was passing the vacant place of the prince, his countenance appeared to change, and his legs to bend under him, and his words came as if he hardly had breath to utter them. 4. He ascended the reception hall, holding up his robe with both his hands, and his body bent; holding in his breath also, as if he dared not breathe. 5. When he came out from the audience, as soon as he had descended one step, he began to relax his countenance, and had a satisfied look. When he had got to the bottom of the steps, he advanced rapidly to his place, with his arms like wings, and on occupying it, his manner still showed respectful uneasiness. CHAP. V. 1. When he was carrying the scepter of his ruler, he seemed to bend his body, as if he were not able to bear its weight. He did not hold it higher than the position of the hands in making
CHAP. III. 1. When the prince called him to help with the arrival of a guest, his expression seemed to change, and he moved forward with difficulty. 2. He leaned toward the other officers around him, adjusting his left or right arm as needed, while keeping the edges of his robe neatly arranged. 3. He quickly moved forward, his arms out like a bird's wings. 4. After the guest left, he would report to the prince, "The visitor isn't looking back anymore." CHAP. IV. 1. As he entered the palace gate, he seemed to bow his body, as if the space wasn’t enough for him. 2. While standing, he didn’t occupy the center of the entrance; when coming in or going out, he didn’t step on the threshold. 3. As he passed the prince's empty spot, his expression changed, his legs seemed to buckle, and his words came out as if he was short of breath. 4. He went up to the reception hall, lifting his robe with both hands, his body bent; he also held his breath, as if he was afraid to exhale. 5. When he came out from the audience, as soon as he stepped down one step, he relaxed his expression and looked satisfied. After reaching the bottom of the steps, he quickly moved to his place, his arms spread out like wings, and even in that position, he still showed a respectful nervousness. CHAP. V. 1. While carrying his ruler’s scepter, he seemed to bend his body, as if he couldn’t handle its weight. He didn’t hold it higher than the level of his hands when making
a bow, nor lower than their position in giving anything to another. His countenance seemed to change, and look apprehensive, and he dragged his feet along as if they were held by something to the ground. 2. In presenting the presents with which he was charged, he wore a placid appearance. 3. At his private audience, he looked highly pleased. CHAP. VI. 1. The superior man did not use a deep purple, or a puce colour, in the ornaments of his dress. 2. Even in his undress, he did not wear anything of a red or reddish colour. 3. In warm weather, he had a single garment either of coarse or fine texture, but he wore it displayed over an inner garment. 4. Over lamb's fur he wore a garment of black; over fawn's fur one of white; and over fox's fur one of yellow.
a bow, nor lower than their position in giving anything to another. His expression seemed to change, and he looked anxious, dragging his feet as if something was holding him down. 2. While presenting the gifts he was tasked with, he maintained a calm demeanor. 3. During his private audience, he appeared very pleased. CHAP. VI. 1. A refined man didn’t use deep purple or a puce color in his clothing decorations. 2. Even when he was casually dressed, he avoided wearing anything red or reddish. 3. In warm weather, he wore a single garment, either made of coarse or fine material, but he wore it over another inner garment. 4. Over lamb’s fur, he wore a black garment; over fawn's fur, he wore one that was white; and over fox’s fur, one that was yellow.
5. The fur robe of his undress was long, with the right sleeve short. 6. He required his sleeping dress to be half as long again as his body. 7. When staying at home, he used thick furs of the fox or the badger. 8. When he put off mourning, he wore all the appendages of the girdle. 9. His under-garment, except when it was required to be of the curtain shape, was made of silk cut narrow above and wide below. 10. He did not wear lamb's fur or a black cap, on a visit of condolence. 11. On the first day of the month he put on his court robes, and presented himself at court.
5. His robe for lounging was long, but the right sleeve was short. 6. He wanted his nightgown to be one and a half times the length of his body. 7. When he was at home, he wore thick furs from foxes or badgers. 8. When he stopped mourning, he wore all the accessories of the belt. 9. His undershirt, unless it needed to be curtain-shaped, was made of silk that was narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. 10. He didn't wear lamb's fur or a black cap while visiting someone who was grieving. 11. On the first day of the month, he put on his formal court attire and went to court.
CHAP. VII. 1. When fasting, he thought it necessary to have his clothes brightly clean and made of linen cloth. 2. When fasting, he thought it necessary to change his food, and also to change the place where he commonly sat in the apartment. CHAP. VIII. 1. He did not dislike to have his rice finely cleaned, nor to have his minced meat cut quite small. 2. He did not eat rice which had been injured by heat or damp and turned sour, nor fish or flesh which was gone. He did not eat what was discoloured, or what was of a bad flavour, nor anything which was ill-cooked, or was not in season. 3. He did not eat meat which was not cut properly, nor what was served without its proper sauce. 4. Though there might be a large quantity of meat, he would not allow what he took to exceed the due proportion for the rice. It was only in wine that he laid down no limit for himself, but he did not allow himself to be confused by it. 5. He did not partake of wine and dried meat bought in the market. 6. He was never without ginger when he ate. 7. He did not eat much. 8. When he had been assisting at the prince's sacrifice, he did not keep the flesh which he received overnight. The flesh of his family sacrifice he did not keep over three days. If kept over three days, people could not eat it. 9. When eating, he did not converse. When in bed, he did not speak. 10. Although his food might be coarse rice and vegetable soup, he would offer a little of it in sacrifice with a grave, respectful air. CHAP. IX. If his mat was not straight, he did not sit on it. CHAP. X. 1. When the villagers were drinking together, on those who carried staffs going out, he went out immediately after. 2. When the villagers were going through their ceremonies to drive away pestilential influences, he put on his court robes and stood on the eastern steps.
CHAP. VII. 1. When fasting, he believed it was important to keep his clothes clean and made of linen. 2. When fasting, he felt it was necessary to change his food and also the spot where he usually sat in the room. CHAP. VIII. 1. He didn’t mind having his rice thoroughly cleaned, nor did he mind having his minced meat chopped finely. 2. He wouldn’t eat rice that had gone bad from heat or moisture and turned sour, nor fish or meat that was spoiled. He avoided anything that was discolored, had a bad taste, was poorly cooked, or was out of season. 3. He wouldn’t eat meat that wasn’t cut properly or what was served without the right sauce. 4. Even if there was a lot of meat available, he made sure that what he took was proportionate to the rice. The only thing he didn’t set a limit on was wine, but he didn’t let it confuse him. 5. He didn’t consume wine or dried meat that he bought at the market. 6. He always had ginger with his meals. 7. He didn’t eat a lot. 8. After attending the prince's sacrifice, he didn’t keep the meat he received overnight. For the meat from his family’s sacrifice, he didn’t keep it for more than three days. If kept longer, it was considered inedible. 9. He kept quiet while eating. He also didn’t speak when in bed. 10. Even if his meal consisted of plain rice and vegetable soup, he would present a bit of it for sacrifice with a serious and respectful demeanor. CHAP. IX. If his mat wasn't straight, he wouldn't sit on it. CHAP. X. 1. When the villagers were drinking and those with staffs left, he would follow right after. 2. When the villagers conducted their ceremonies to ward off bad influences, he would put on his formal robes and stand on the eastern steps.
CHAP. XI. 1. When he was sending complimentary inquiries to any one in another State, he bowed twice as he escorted the messenger away. 2. Chi K'ang having sent him a present of physic, he bowed and received it, saying, 'I do not know it. I dare not taste it.' CHAP. XII. The stable being burned down, when he was at court, on his return he said, 'Has any man been hurt?' He did not ask about the horses. CHAP. XIII. 1. When the prince sent him a gift of cooked meat, he would adjust his mat, first taste it, and then give it away to others. When the prince sent him a gift of undressed meat, he would have it cooked, and offer it to the spirits of his ancestors. When the prince sent him a gift of a living animal, he would keep it alive. 2. When he was in attendance on the prince and joining in the entertainment, the prince only sacrificed. He first tasted everything.
CHAP. XI. 1. When he was sending polite inquiries to someone in another state, he bowed twice as he sent off the messenger. 2. Chi K'ang sent him a gift of medicine, and he bowed to accept it, saying, 'I’m not familiar with this. I can’t dare to try it.' CHAP. XII. When the stable burned down while he was at court, upon his return he said, 'Is anyone hurt?' He didn’t ask about the horses. CHAP. XIII. 1. When the prince sent him a gift of cooked meat, he would adjust his mat, taste it first, and then give it away to others. When the prince sent him a gift of raw meat, he would have it cooked and offer it to his ancestors' spirits. When the prince sent him a living animal, he would keep it alive. 2. When he was with the prince and participating in the entertainment, the prince only offered sacrifices. He tasted everything first.
3. When he was ill and the prince came to visit him, he had his head to the east, made his court robes be spread over him, and drew his girdle across them. 4. When the prince's order called him, without waiting for his carriage to be yoked, he went at once. CHAP. XIV. When he entered the ancestral temple of the State, he asked about everything. CHAP. XV. 1. When any of his friends died, if he had no relations who could be depended on for the necessary offices, he would say, 'I will bury him.' 2. When a friend sent him a present, though it might be a carriage and horses, he did not bow. 3. The only present for which he bowed was that of the flesh of sacrifice. CHAP. XVI. 1. In bed, he did not lie like a corpse. At home, he did not put on any formal deportment. 2. When he saw any one in a mourning dress, though it might be an acquaintance, he would change countenance; when he saw any one wearing the cap of full dress, or a blind person, though he might be in his undress, he would salute them in a ceremonious manner. 3. To any person in mourning he bowed forward to the crossbar of his carriage; he bowed in the same way to any one bearing the tables of population. 4. When he was at an entertainment where there was an abundance of provisions set before him, he would change countenance and rise up. 5. On a sudden clap of thunder, or a violent wind, he would change countenance. CHAP. XVII. 1. When he was about to mount his carriage, he would stand straight, holding the cord. 2. When he was in the carriage, he did not turn his head quite round, he did not talk hastily, he did not point with his hands. CHAP. XVIII. 1. Seeing the countenance, it instantly rises. It flies round, and by and by settles. 2. The Master said, 'There is the hen-pheasant on the hill bridge. At its season! At its season!' Tsze-lu made a motion to it. Thrice it smelt him and then rose.
3. When he was sick and the prince came to visit him, he faced east, had his ceremonial robes laid over him, and adjusted his sash. 4. When the prince summoned him, without waiting for his carriage to be prepared, he went right away. CHAP. XIV. When he entered the state ancestral temple, he inquired about everything. CHAP. XV. 1. When any of his friends passed away, if he had no reliable relatives to take care of the necessary arrangements, he would say, 'I will handle the burial.' 2. When a friend sent him a gift, even if it was a carriage and horses, he did not bow. 3. The only gift for which he bowed was the meat from a sacrifice. CHAP. XVI. 1. In bed, he did not lie still like a corpse. At home, he did not act with formal decorum. 2. When he saw someone in mourning attire, even if it was an acquaintance, his expression would change; when he saw someone wearing a formal cap, or a blind person, even if he was casually dressed, he would greet them politely. 3. To anyone in mourning, he would bow forward to the crossbar of his carriage; he would bow in the same way to anyone carrying the population registers. 4. When he was at a gathering with a lot of food laid out, he would change his expression and stand up. 5. At a sudden clap of thunder or a strong wind, he would change his expression. CHAP. XVII. 1. When he was about to get into his carriage, he would stand straight while holding the strap. 2. While in the carriage, he did not fully turn his head, he did not speak hurriedly, and he did not point with his hands. CHAP. XVIII. 1. Seeing the face, it quickly rises. It flits around, and eventually settles. 2. The Master said, 'There is the hen-pheasant on the hill bridge. It’s in season! It’s in season!' Tsze-lu gestured towards it. It sniffed him three times and then took off.
BOOK XI. HSIEN TSIN.
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said, 'The men of former times, in the matters of ceremonies and music were rustics, it is said, while the men of these latter times, in ceremonies and music, are accomplished gentlemen. 2. 'If I have occasion to use those things, I follow the men of former times.' CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Of those who were with me in Ch'an and Ts'ai, there are none to be found to enter my door.' 2. Distinguished for their virtuous principles and practice, there were Yen Yuan, Min Tsze-ch'ien, Zan Po-niu, and Chung-kung; for their ability in speech, Tsai Wo and Tsze-kung; for their adminis-
CHAP. I. 1. The Master said, 'People in the past, when it came to ceremonies and music, were like simple country folk, while people today are refined gentlemen in those areas. 2. 'When I need to use those things, I look to the people of the past.' CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Among those who were with me in Ch'an and Ts'ai, none can be found to come to my door.' 2. Notable for their virtuous principles and practices were Yen Yuan, Min Tsze-ch'ien, Zan Po-niu, and Chung-kung; for their eloquence, Tsai Wo and Tsze-kung; for their administrative-
trative talents, Zan Yu and Chi Lu; for their literary acquirements, Tsze-yu and Tsze-hsia. CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Hui gives me no assistance. There is nothing that I say in which he does not delight.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'Filial indeed is Min Tsze-ch'ien! Other people say nothing of him different from the report of his parents and brothers.' CHAP. V. Nan Yung was frequently repeating the lines about a white scepter stone. Confucius gave him the daughter of his elder brother to wife.
trative talents, Zan Yu and Chi Lu; for their literary skills, Tsze-yu and Tsze-hsia. CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Hui doesn’t help me. There’s nothing I say that he doesn’t enjoy.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'Truly filial is Min Tsze-ch'ien! Others have nothing to say about him except what his parents and brothers report.' CHAP. V. Nan Yung often repeated the lines about a white scepter stone. Confucius gave him his older brother’s daughter as a wife.
CHAP. VI. Chi K'ang asked which of the disciples loved to learn. Confucius replied to him, 'There was Yen Hui; he loved to learn. Unfortunately his appointed time was short, and he died. Now there is no one who loves to learn, as he did.' CHAP. VII. 1. When Yen Yuan died, Yen Lu begged the carriage of the Master to sell and get an outer shell for his son's coffin. 2. The Master said, 'Every one calls his son his son, whether he has talents or has not talents. There was Li; when he died, he had a coffin but no outer shell. I would not walk on foot to get a shell for him, because, having followed in the rear of the great officers, it was not proper that I should walk on foot.' CHAP. VIII. When Yen Yuan died, the Master said, 'Alas! Heaven is destroying me! Heaven is destroying me!'
CHAP. VI. Chi K'ang asked which of the disciples loved to learn. Confucius replied, "There was Yen Hui; he loved to learn. Unfortunately, his time was short, and he died. Now there’s no one who loves to learn like he did." CHAP. VII. 1. When Yen Yuan died, Yen Lu asked the Master for his carriage to sell to buy an outer shell for his son's coffin. 2. The Master said, "Everyone calls his son his son, whether he has talent or not. There was Li; when he died, he had a coffin but no outer shell. I wouldn’t walk on foot to get a shell for him because, having served alongside the great officials, it wouldn’t be proper for me to go on foot." CHAP. VIII. When Yen Yuan died, the Master said, "Alas! Heaven is punishing me! Heaven is punishing me!"
CHAP. IX. 1. When Yen Yuan died, the Master bewailed him exceedingly, and the disciples who were with him said, 'Master, your grief is excessive?' 2. 'Is it excessive?' said he. 3. 'If I am not to mourn bitterly for this man, for whom should I mourn?' CHAP. X. 1. When Yen Yuan died, the disciples wished to give him a great funeral, and the Master said, 'You may not do so.' 2. The disciples did bury him in great style. 3. The Master said, 'Hui behaved towards me as his father. I have not been able to treat him as my son. The fault is not mine; it belongs to you, O disciples.' CHAP. XI. Chi Lu asked about serving the spirits of the dead. The Master said, 'While you are not able to serve men, how can you serve their spirits?' Chi Lu added, 'I venture to ask about
CHAP. IX. 1. When Yen Yuan passed away, the Master grieved deeply, and the disciples who were with him said, 'Master, aren't you overreacting?' 2. 'Am I overreacting?' he replied. 3. 'If I shouldn't mourn deeply for this man, then who else should I mourn for?' CHAP. X. 1. When Yen Yuan died, the disciples wanted to give him a grand funeral, but the Master said, 'You shouldn't do that.' 2. The disciples went ahead and buried him with great ceremony. 3. The Master said, 'Hui treated me like a father. I haven't been able to treat him like my son. The fault is not mine; it's yours, O disciples.' CHAP. XI. Chi Lu asked about honoring the spirits of the deceased. The Master said, 'If you can't serve people, how can you serve their spirits?' Chi Lu added, 'I would like to ask about...
death?' He was answered, 'While you do not know life, how can you know about death?' CHAP. XII. 1. The disciple Min was standing by his side, looking bland and precise; Tsze-lu, looking bold and soldierly; Zan Yu and Tsze-kung, with a free and straightforward manner. The Master was pleased. 2. He said, 'Yu, there!— he will not die a natural death.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Some parties in Lu were going to take down and rebuild the Long Treasury. 2. Min Tsze-ch'ien said, 'Suppose it were to be repaired after its old style;— why must it be altered and made anew?' 3. The Master said, 'This man seldom speaks; when he does, he is sure to hit the point.'
'Death?' He was answered, 'If you don’t understand life, how can you understand death?' CHAP. XII. 1. The disciple Min was standing by his side, looking calm and precise; Tsze-lu, looking bold and soldierly; Zan Yu and Tsze-kung, with an open and straightforward demeanor. The Master was pleased. 2. He said, 'Yu, over there!— he will not die a natural death.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Some people in Lu were planning to tear down and rebuild the Long Treasury. 2. Min Tsze-ch'ien said, 'If it were to be repaired in the old style, why does it need to be changed and made new?' 3. The Master said, 'This man seldom speaks; when he does, he always hits the mark.'
CHAP. XIV. 1. The Master said, 'What has the lute of Yu to do in my door?' 2. The other disciples began not to respect Tsze-lu. The Master said, 'Yu has ascended to the hall, though he has not yet passed into the inner apartments.' CHAP. XV. 1. Tsze-kung asked which of the two, Shih or Shang, was the superior. The Master said, 'Shih goes beyond the due mean, and Shang does not come up to it.' 2. 'Then,' said Tsze-kung, 'the superiority is with Shih, I suppose.' 3. The Master said, 'To go beyond is as wrong as to fall short.' CHAP. XVI. 1. The head of the Chi family was richer than the duke of Chau had been, and yet Ch'iu collected his imposts for him, and increased his wealth.
CHAP. XIV. 1. The Master said, 'What does the lute of Yu have to do at my door?' 2. The other disciples started to lose respect for Tsze-lu. The Master said, 'Yu has entered the hall, but he hasn't yet passed into the inner rooms.' CHAP. XV. 1. Tsze-kung asked which of the two, Shih or Shang, was superior. The Master said, 'Shih goes beyond the proper mean, and Shang doesn't reach it.' 2. 'Then,' Tsze-kung said, 'the superiority is with Shih, right?' 3. The Master said, 'Going too far is just as wrong as not going far enough.' CHAP. XVI. 1. The head of the Chi family was richer than the duke of Chau had been, yet Ch'iu collected his taxes for him and increased his wealth.
2. The Master said, 'He is no disciple of mine. My little
children, beat the drum and assail him.'
CHAP. XVII. 1. Ch'ai is simple.
2. Shan is dull.
3. Shih is specious.
4. Yu is coarse.
CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Master said, 'There is Hui! He has nearly
attained to perfect virtue. He is often in want.
2. 'Ts'ze does not acquiesce in the appointments of Heaven,
and his goods are increased by him. Yet his judgments are often
correct.'
CHAP. XIX. Tsze-chang asked what were the characteristics of
2. The Master said, 'He’s not one of my students. My little
children, beat the drum and confront him.'
CHAP. XVII. 1. Ch'ai is naive.
2. Shan is dull.
3. Shih is superficial.
4. Yu is uncouth.
CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Master said, 'There’s Hui! He’s almost
reached perfect virtue. He often lacks basic needs.
2. 'Ts'ze doesn’t accept the will of Heaven,
and he increases his wealth through his own efforts. Yet his judgments are often
right.'
CHAP. XIX. Tsze-chang asked what were the characteristics of
the GOOD man. The Master said, 'He does not tread in the footsteps of others, but moreover, he does not enter the chamber of the sage.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'If, because a man's discourse appears solid and sincere, we allow him to be a good man, is he really a superior man? or is his gravity only in appearance?' CHAP. XXI. Tsze-lu asked whether he should immediately carry into practice what he heard. The Master said, 'There are your father and elder brothers to be consulted;— why should you act on that principle of immediately carrying into practice what you hear?' Zan Yu asked the same, whether he should immediately carry into practice what he heard, and the Master answered, 'Immediately carry into practice what you hear.' Kung-hsi Hwa said, 'Yu asked whether he should carry immediately into practice what he heard, and you said, "There are your father and elder brothers to be consulted." Ch'iu asked whether he should immediately carry into practice what he heard, and you said, "Carry it immediately into practice." I, Ch'ih, am perplexed, and venture to ask you for an explanation.' The Master said, 'Ch'iu is retiring and slow; therefore,
the GOOD man. The Master said, 'He doesn’t follow in the footsteps of others, but also, he doesn’t enter the sage's chamber.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'If we consider a man to be good just because his speech seems solid and sincere, is he really a superior man? Or is his seriousness just for show?' CHAP. XXI. Tsze-lu asked if he should act on what he hears right away. The Master said, 'You should consult your father and elder brothers; why should you immediately put into practice what you hear?' Zan Yu asked the same question about acting immediately on what he heard, and the Master replied, 'Put into practice what you hear right away.' Kung-hsi Hwa said, 'Yu asked if he should put into practice what he hears immediately, and you said, "Consult your father and elder brothers." Ch'iu asked if he should do it right away, and you said, "Do it immediately." I, Ch'ih, am confused and would like an explanation.' The Master said, 'Ch'iu is reserved and slow; therefore,
I urged him forward. Yu has more than his own share of energy; therefore I kept him back.' CHAP. XXII. The Master was put in fear in K'wang and Yen Yuan fell behind. The Master, on his rejoining him, said, 'I thought you had died.' Hui replied, 'While you were alive, how should I presume to die?' CHAP. XXIII. 1. Chi Tsze-zan asked whether Chung Yu and Zan Ch'iu could be called great ministers. 2. The Master said, 'I thought you would ask about some extraordinary individuals, and you only ask about Yu and Ch'iu! 3. 'What is called a great minister, is one who serves his prince according to what is right, and when he finds he cannot do so, retires.
I pushed him to move ahead. Yu has plenty of energy, so I held him back. CHAP. XXII. The Master felt afraid in K'wang, and Yen Yuan lagged behind. When the Master caught up with him, he said, 'I thought you were dead.' Hui replied, 'While you are alive, how could I dare to die?' CHAP. XXIII. 1. Chi Tsze-zan asked if Chung Yu and Zan Ch'iu could be considered great ministers. 2. The Master said, 'I thought you would ask about some remarkable individuals, but you're only asking about Yu and Ch'iu! 3. 'A great minister is someone who serves their prince according to what’s right, and if they find they can’t do that, they step down.
4. 'Now, as to Yu and Ch'iu, they may be called ordinary
ministers.'
5. Tsze-zan said, 'Then they will always follow their chief;—
will they?'
6. The Master said, 'In an act of parricide or regicide, they
would not follow him.'
CHAP. XXIV. 1. Tsze-lu got Tsze-kao appointed governor of Pi.
2. The Master said, 'You are injuring a man's son.'
3. Tsze-lu said, 'There are (there) common people and officers;
there are the altars of the spirits of the land and grain. Why must
one read books before he can be considered to have learned?'
4. The Master said, 'It is on this account that I hate your
glib-tongued people.'
CHAP. XXV. 1. Tsze-lu, Tsang Hsi, Zan Yu, and Kung-hsi Hwa
were sitting by the Master.
2. He said to them, 'Though I am a day or so older than you,
do not think of that.
4. 'Now, regarding Yu and Ch'iu, they can be considered regular
ministers.'
5. Tsze-zan asked, 'So they will always support their leader;—
won't they?'
6. The Master replied, 'In the case of a parricide or regicide, they
would not support him.'
CHAP. XXIV. 1. Tsze-lu helped get Tsze-kao appointed as governor of Pi.
2. The Master said, 'You're harming a man's son.'
3. Tsze-lu said, 'There are ordinary people and officials;
there are the altars for the spirits of the land and grain. Why does one
need to read books to be considered educated?'
4. The Master said, 'That's why I dislike your smooth-talking people.'
CHAP. XXV. 1. Tsze-lu, Tsang Hsi, Zan Yu, and Kung-hsi Hwa
were sitting with the Master.
2. He said to them, 'Even if I'm a day or so older than you,
don’t focus on that.
3. 'From day to day you are saying, "We are not known." If some ruler were to know you, what would you like to do?' 4. Tsze-lu hastily and lightly replied, 'Suppose the case of a State of ten thousand chariots; let it be straitened between other large States; let it be suffering from invading armies; and to this let there be added a famine in corn and in all vegetables:— if I were intrusted with the government of it, in three years' time I could make the people to be bold, and to recognise the rules of righteous conduct.' The Master smiled at him. 5. Turning to Yen Yu, he said, 'Ch'iu, what are your wishes?' Ch'iu replied, 'Suppose a state of sixty or seventy li square, or one of fifty or sixty, and let me have the government of it;— in three years' time, I could make plenty to abound among the people. As to teaching them the principles of propriety, and music, I must wait for the rise of a superior man to do that.'
3. "Every day you say, 'We're not well-known.' If some ruler were to recognize you, what would you want to do?" 4. Tsze-lu quickly and casually replied, "Imagine a state with ten thousand chariots; if it's caught between other powerful states, facing invading armies, and suffering from a famine in grains and all vegetables—if I were in charge of it, in three years, I could make the people strong and help them understand the rules of righteous behavior." The Master smiled at him. 5. Turning to Yen Yu, he said, "Ch'iu, what do you wish for?" Ch'iu replied, "If I had control over a state that was sixty or seventy li square, or one that was fifty or sixty, in three years, I could ensure that the people have plenty. As for teaching them about propriety and music, I will have to wait for a superior person to do that."
6. 'What are your wishes, Ch'ih,' said the Master next to Kung- hsi Hwa. Ch'ih replied, 'I do not say that my ability extends to these things, but I should wish to learn them. At the services of the ancestral temple, and at the audiences of the princes with the sovereign, I should like, dressed in the dark square-made robe and the black linen cap, to act as a small assistant.' 7. Last of all, the Master asked Tsang Hsi, 'Tien, what are your wishes?' Tien, pausing as he was playing on his lute, while it was yet twanging, laid the instrument aside, and rose. 'My wishes,' he said, 'are different from the cherished purposes of these three gentlemen.' 'What harm is there in that?' said the Master; 'do you also, as well as they, speak out your wishes.' Tien then said, 'In this, the last month of spring, with the dress of the season all complete, along with five or six young men who have assumed the cap, and six or seven boys, I would wash in the I, enjoy the breeze among the rain altars, and return home singing.' The Master heaved a sigh and said, 'I give my approval to Tien.'
6. "What are your wishes, Ch'ih?" the Master asked next to Kung-hsi Hwa. Ch'ih replied, "I can’t say that I’m skilled in these matters, but I would like to learn them. At the ancestral temple services and during the princes’ audiences with the sovereign, I would like to dress in the dark square robe and black linen cap, and serve as a small assistant." 7. Finally, the Master asked Tsang Hsi, "Tien, what are your wishes?" Tien paused while playing his lute, set it aside, and stood up. "My wishes," he said, "are different from the goals of these three gentlemen." "What's wrong with that?" the Master replied. "You should also share your wishes." Tien then said, "In this last month of spring, dressed for the season, along with five or six young men wearing caps, and six or seven boys, I would wash in the I, enjoy the breeze by the rain altars, and return home singing." The Master sighed and said, "I approve of Tien."
8. The three others having gone out, Tsang Hsi remained behind, and said, 'What do you think of the words of these three friends?' The Master replied, 'They simply told each one his wishes.' 9. Hsi pursued, 'Master, why did you smile at Yu?' 10. He was answered, 'The management of a State demands the rules of propriety. His words were not humble; therefore I smiled at him.' 11. Hsi again said, 'But was it not a State which Ch'iu proposed for himself?' The reply was, 'Yes; did you ever see a territory of sixty or seventy li or one of fifty or sixty, which was not a State?' 12. Once more, Hsi inquired, 'And was it not a State which Ch'ih proposed for himself?' The Master again replied, 'Yes; who but princes have to do with ancestral temples, and with audiences but the sovereign? If Ch'ih were to be a small assistant in these services, who could be a great one?
8. The other three left, and Tsang Hsi stayed behind, asking, 'What do you think about what those three friends said?' The Master replied, 'They simply shared their own desires.' 9. Hsi continued, 'Master, why did you smile at Yu?' 10. He answered, 'Running a State requires following proper conduct. His words weren’t humble; that’s why I smiled at him.' 11. Hsi asked again, 'But wasn’t it a State that Ch'iu was suggesting for himself?' The reply was, 'Yes; have you ever seen a territory of sixty or seventy li, or one of fifty or sixty, that wasn't considered a State?' 12. Once more, Hsi questioned, 'And wasn’t it a State that Ch'ih proposed for himself?' The Master replied again, 'Yes; only princes deal with ancestral temples, and only the ruler conducts audiences. If Ch'ih were to be a small assistant in these duties, who could be a significant one?'
BOOK XII. YEN YUAN.
CHAP. I. 1. Yen Yuan asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'To subdue one's self and return to propriety, is perfect virtue. If a man can for one day subdue himself and return to propriety, all under heaven will ascribe perfect virtue to him. Is the practice of perfect virtue from a man himself, or is it from others?' 2. Yen Yuan said, 'I beg to ask the steps of that process.' The Master replied, 'Look not at what is contrary to propriety; listen not to what is contrary to propriety; speak not what is contrary to propriety; make no movement which is contrary to propriety.' Yen Yuan then said, 'Though I am deficient in intelligence and vigour, I will make it my business to practise this lesson.'
CHAP. I. 1. Yen Yuan asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'To control oneself and return to proper behavior is perfect virtue. If someone can control themselves for just one day and return to proper behavior, everyone under heaven will recognize their perfect virtue. Is the practice of perfect virtue something that comes from within a person, or is it influenced by others?' 2. Yen Yuan said, 'I would like to ask about the steps involved in that process.' The Master replied, 'Don’t look at what goes against proper behavior; don’t listen to what goes against proper behavior; don’t speak what goes against proper behavior; don’t act in a way that goes against proper behavior.' Yen Yuan then said, 'Although I may lack intelligence and energy, I will make it my aim to practice this lesson.'
CHAP. II. Chung-kung asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'It is, when you go abroad, to behave to every one as if you were receiving a great guest; to employ the people as if you were assisting at a great sacrifice; not to do to others as you would not wish done to yourself; to have no murmuring against you in the country, and none in the family.' Chung-kung said, 'Though I am deficient in intelligence and vigour, I will make it my business to practise this lesson.' CHAP. III. 1. Sze-ma Niu asked about perfect virtue. 2. The Master said, 'The man of perfect virtue is cautious and slow in his speech.'
CHAP. II. Chung-kung asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'It means treating everyone you meet like a valued guest; managing people as if you were participating in an important ceremony; not doing to others what you wouldn't want done to you; having no complaints against you in the community, and none in your family.' Chung-kung said, 'Even if I lack intelligence and strength, I will make it my priority to practice this lesson.' CHAP. III. 1. Sze-ma Niu asked about perfect virtue. 2. The Master said, 'A person of perfect virtue is careful and measured in their words.'
3. 'Cautious and slow in his speech!' said Niu;— 'is this what is meant by perfect virtue?' The Master said, 'When a man feels the difficulty of doing, can he be other than cautious and slow in speaking?' CHAP. IV. 1. Sze-ma Niu asked about the superior man. The Master said, 'The superior man has neither anxiety nor fear.' 2. 'Being without anxiety or fear!' said Nui;— 'does this constitute what we call the superior man?' 3. The Master said, 'When internal examination discovers nothing wrong, what is there to be anxious about, what is there to fear?' CHAP. V. 1. Sze-ma Niu, full of anxiety, said, 'Other men all have their brothers, I only have not.' 2. Tsze-hsia said to him, 'There is the following saying which I have heard:—
3. "Cautious and slow in his speech!" Niu said. "Is this what we mean by perfect virtue?" The Master replied, "When someone realizes how hard it is to act correctly, can they be anything other than cautious and slow in speaking?" CHAP. IV. 1. Sze-ma Niu asked about the superior person. The Master said, "The superior person has no anxiety or fear." 2. "Being free from anxiety or fear!" Niu said. "Is this what we refer to as the superior person?" 3. The Master said, "When self-reflection reveals nothing wrong, what is there to be anxious about or to fear?" CHAP. V. 1. Sze-ma Niu, very anxious, said, "Everyone has brothers; I have none." 2. Tsze-hsia replied to him, "I once heard this saying:—
3. '"Death and life have their determined appointment; riches and honours depend upon Heaven." 4. 'Let the superior man never fail reverentially to order his own conduct, and let him be respectful to others and observant of propriety:— then all within the four seas will be his brothers. What has the superior man to do with being distressed because he has no brothers?' CHAP. VI. Tsze-chang asked what constituted intelligence. The Master said, 'He with whom neither slander that gradually soaks into the mind, nor statements that startle like a wound in the flesh, are successful, may be called intelligent indeed. Yea, he with whom neither soaking slander, nor startling statements, are successful, may be called farseeing.'
3. "Death and life have their set times; wealth and honor depend on fate." 4. "A good person should always conduct themselves with respect and be mindful of others and proper behavior—then everyone in the world will be like family to him. Why would a good person feel troubled about not having brothers?" CHAP. VI. Tsze-chang asked what makes someone intelligent. The Master said, "A person who is not affected by slander that gradually seeps into the mind, nor by statements that hit hard like a wound, can truly be called intelligent. Yes, a person who is not swayed by either subtle slander or shocking statements can be called insightful."
CHAP. VII. 1. Tsze-kung asked about government. The Master said, 'The requisites of government are that there be sufficiency of food, sufficiency of military equipment, and the confidence of the people in their ruler.' 2. Tsze-kung said, 'If it cannot be helped, and one of these must be dispensed with, which of the three should be foregone first?' 'The military equipment,' said the Master. 3. Tsze-kung again asked, 'If it cannot be helped, and one of the remaining two must be dispensed with, which of them should be foregone?' The Master answered, 'Part with the food. From of old, death has been the lot of all men; but if the people have no faith in their rulers, there is no standing for the state.' CHAP. VIII. 1. Chi Tsze-ch'ang said, 'In a superior man it is only the substantial qualities which are wanted;— why should we seek for ornamental accomplishments?'
CHAP. VII. 1. Tsze-kung asked about government. The Master said, "The essentials of good governance are enough food, enough military resources, and the people's trust in their leader." 2. Tsze-kung asked, "If it's unavoidable and one of these must be sacrificed, which should go first?" "The military resources," the Master replied. 3. Tsze-kung asked again, "If it's unavoidable and we have to give up one of the other two, which should we forgo?" The Master answered, "Let go of the food. Historically, death is the fate of all humans; but if the people lose faith in their leaders, the state cannot endure." CHAP. VIII. 1. Chi Tsze-ch'ang said, "In a truly good person, only the essential qualities matter—why should we focus on superficial skills?"
2. Tsze-kung said, 'Alas! Your words, sir, show you to be a superior man, but four horses cannot overtake the tongue. 3. Ornament is as substance; substance is as ornament. The hide of a tiger or a leopard stripped of its hair, is like the hide of a dog or a goat stripped of its hair.' CHAP. IX. 1. The Duke Ai inquired of Yu Zo, saying, 'The year is one of scarcity, and the returns for expenditure are not sufficient;— what is to be done?' 2. Yu Zo replied to him, 'Why not simply tithe the people?' 3. 'With two tenths, said the duke, 'I find it not enough;— how could I do with that system of one tenth?' 4. Yu Zo answered, 'If the people have plenty, their prince will not be left to want alone. If the people are in want, their prince cannot enjoy plenty alone.'
2. Tsze-kung said, "Wow! Your words, sir, show you to be a great man, but four horses can't catch up to a quick tongue. 3. Appearance is as important as reality; reality is as important as appearance. The skin of a tiger or a leopard without its fur is like the skin of a dog or a goat without its fur." CHAP. IX. 1. Duke Ai asked Yu Zo, "This year is tough, and the returns on spending aren't enough; what should we do?" 2. Yu Zo replied, "Why not just collect a tenth from the people?" 3. "With two-tenths," said the duke, "I find it insufficient; how could I manage with just one-tenth?" 4. Yu Zo answered, "If the people have enough, their ruler won't be left needing. If the people are struggling, their ruler can't enjoy abundance alone."
CHAP. X. 1. Tsze-chang having asked how virtue was to be exalted, and delusions to be discovered, the Master said, 'Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles, and be moving continually to what is right;— this is the way to exalt one's virtue. 2. 'You love a man and wish him to live; you hate him and wish him to die. Having wished him to live, you also wish him to die. This is a case of delusion. 3. '"It may not be on account of her being rich, yet you come to make a difference."' CHAP. XI. 1. The Duke Ching, of Ch'i, asked Confucius about government. 2. Confucius replied, 'There is government, when the prince is prince, and the minister is minister; when the father is father, and the son is son.' 3. 'Good!' said the duke; 'if, indeed; the prince be not prince, the minister not minister, the father not father, and the son not son, although I have my revenue, can I enjoy it?'
CHAP. X. 1. Tsze-chang asked how to elevate virtue and recognize delusions. The Master said, 'Prioritize faithfulness and sincerity, and continually strive for what is right—this is how to elevate one’s virtue. 2. 'You care for someone and want them to live; you dislike them and wish them to die. When you want them to live, but also want them to die, that’s a delusion. 3. '"It may not be because she’s wealthy, yet you treat her differently."' CHAP. XI. 1. Duke Ching of Ch'i asked Confucius about governance. 2. Confucius replied, 'There is good governance when the prince acts as a prince, and the minister acts as a minister; when the father fulfills the role of a father, and the son fulfills the role of a son.' 3. 'Good!' said the duke; 'if the prince isn’t acting like a prince, the minister isn’t acting like a minister, the father isn’t acting like a father, and the son isn’t acting like a son, even if I have my income, can I really enjoy it?'
CHAP. XII. 1. The Master said, 'Ah! it is Yu, who could with half a word settle litigations!' 2. Tsze-lu never slept over a promise. CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'In hearing litigations, I am like any other body. What is necessary, however, is to cause the people to have no litigations.' CHAP. XIV. Tsze-chang asked about government. The Master said, 'The art of governing is to keep its affairs before the mind without weariness, and to practise them with undeviating consistency.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'By extensively studying all learning, and keeping himself under the restraint of the rules of propriety, one may thus likewise not err from what is right.'
CHAP. XII. 1. The Master said, 'Ah! it's Yu, who could resolve disputes with just a few words!' 2. Tsze-lu never forgot a promise. CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'When it comes to hearing disputes, I'm just like everyone else. What's important, though, is to ensure that people have no disputes to begin with.' CHAP. XIV. Tsze-chang asked about governing. The Master said, 'The skill in governing is to keep its matters in mind without getting tired of them and to practice them consistently.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'By thoroughly studying all areas of knowledge and following the rules of propriety, one can also avoid straying from what is right.'
CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'The superior man seeks to perfect the admirable qualities of men, and does not seek to perfect their bad qualities. The mean man does the opposite of this.' CHAP. XVII. Chi K'ang asked Confucius about government. Confucius replied, 'To govern means to rectify. If you lead on the people with correctness, who will dare not to be correct?' CHAP. XVIII. Chi K'ang, distressed about the number of thieves in the state, inquired of Confucius how to do away with them. Confucius said, 'If you, sir, were not covetous, although you should reward them to do it, they would not steal.' CHAP. XIX. Chi K'ang asked Confucius about government, saying, 'What do you say to killing the unprincipled for the good of the principled?' Confucius replied, 'Sir, in carrying on your government, why should you use killing at all? Let your evinced desires be for what is good, and the people will be good. The relation
CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'A wise person works to improve the positive qualities in others and doesn’t focus on their flaws. The ordinary person does the opposite.' CHAP. XVII. Chi K'ang asked Confucius about governance. Confucius replied, 'To govern means to set things right. If you lead the people with integrity, who would dare to be dishonest?' CHAP. XVIII. Chi K'ang, worried about the number of thieves in the state, asked Confucius how to eliminate them. Confucius said, 'If you, sir, were not greedy, even if you offered rewards, they still wouldn’t steal.' CHAP. XIX. Chi K'ang asked Confucius about governance, saying, 'What do you think about executing the corrupt for the benefit of the ethical?' Confucius replied, 'Sir, in managing your government, why should you resort to killing at all? Focus your desires on what is good, and the people will be good.' The relationship
between superiors and inferiors, is like that between the wind and the grass. The grass must bend, when the wind blows across it.' CHAP. XX. 1. Tsze-chang asked, 'What must the officer be, who may be said to be distinguished?' 2. The Master said, 'What is it you call being distinguished?' 3. Tsze-chang replied, 'It is to be heard of through the State, to be heard of throughout his clan.' 4. The Master said, 'That is notoriety, not distinction. 5. 'Now the man of distinction is solid and straightforward, and loves righteousness. He examines people's words, and looks at their countenances. He is anxious to humble himself to others. Such a man will be distinguished in the country; he will be distinguished in his clan. 6. 'As to the man of notoriety, he assumes the appearance of
between superiors and inferiors is like the relationship between the wind and the grass. The grass must bend when the wind blows across it.' CHAP. XX. 1. Tsze-chang asked, 'What does an officer need to be like to be considered distinguished?' 2. The Master said, 'What do you mean by distinguished?' 3. Tsze-chang replied, 'It's someone who is known throughout the State and recognized within his clan.' 4. The Master said, 'That's notoriety, not distinction. 5. 'A distinguished person is solid and straightforward, values righteousness, carefully considers people's words, and observes their expressions. He is eager to lower himself to others. Such a person will be distinguished in the country and within his clan. 6. 'In contrast, a person known for notoriety presents an image of
virtue, but his actions are opposed to it, and he rests in this character without any doubts about himself. Such a man will be heard of in the country; he will be heard of in the clan.' CHAP. XXI. 1. Fan Ch'ih rambling with the Master under the trees about the rain altars, said, 'I venture to ask how to exalt virtue, to correct cherished evil, and to discover delusions.' 2. The Master said, 'Truly a good question! 3. 'If doing what is to be done be made the first business, and success a secondary consideration;— is not this the way to exalt virtue? To assail one's own wickedness and not assail that of others;— is not this the way to correct cherished evil? For a morning's anger to disregard one's own life, and involve that of his parents;— is not this a case of delusion?' CHAP. XXII. 1. Fan Ch'ih asked about benevolence. The Master said, 'It is to love all men.' He asked about knowledge. The Master said, 'It is to know all men.'
virtue, yet his actions go against it, and he remains confident in this character without any self-doubt. Such a person will be recognized in the community; he will be known in the group. CHAP. XXI. 1. Fan Ch'ih was walking with the Master under the trees near the rain altars and asked, 'I’d like to know how to elevate virtue, fix ingrained wrongdoing, and uncover misconceptions.' 2. The Master replied, 'That’s a really good question! 3. 'If making sure the right actions are taken is prioritized over seeking success— isn’t this how to elevate virtue? To confront one’s own faults rather than those of others— isn’t this how to fix ingrained wrongdoing? For one morning's anger to disregard one's own life and affect that of their parents— isn’t this a clear case of misunderstanding?' CHAP. XXII. 1. Fan Ch'ih asked about benevolence. The Master said, 'It means to love all people.' He then asked about knowledge. The Master said, 'It means to understand all people.'
2. Fan Ch'ih did not immediately understand these answers. 3. The Master said, 'Employ the upright and put aside all the crooked;— in this way the crooked can be made to be upright.' 4. Fan Ch'ih retired, and, seeing Tsze-hsia, he said to him, 'A Little while ago, I had an interview with our Master, and asked him about knowledge. He said, 'Employ the upright, and put aside all the crooked;— in this way, the crooked will be made to be upright.' What did he mean?' 5. Tsze-hsia said, 'Truly rich is his saying! 6. 'Shun, being in possession of the kingdom, selected from among all the people, and employed Kao-yao, on which all who were devoid of virtue disappeared. T'ang, being in possession of the kingdom, selected from among all the people, and employed I Yin, and all who were devoid of virtue disappeared.' CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-kung asked about friendship. The Master said, 'Faithfully admonish your friend, and skillfully lead him on. If you find him impracticable, stop. Do not disgrace yourself.'
2. Fan Ch'ih didn't immediately get these answers. 3. The Master said, "Choose the good and set aside the bad; this way, the bad can be changed to good." 4. Fan Ch'ih went away and, seeing Tsze-hsia, said to him, "Not long ago, I talked with our Master and asked him about knowledge. He said, 'Choose the good and set aside the bad; this way, the bad will be changed to good.' What did he mean?" 5. Tsze-hsia replied, "His words are truly profound! 6. 'Shun, when he had the kingdom, picked the best from the people and appointed Kao-yao, causing all the immoral people to vanish. T'ang, when he had the kingdom, chose from among the people and appointed I Yin, and all the immoral people disappeared.'" CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-kung asked about friendship. The Master said, "Give honest advice to your friend and guide him wisely. If he proves to be difficult, know when to step back. Don't bring shame to yourself."
CHAP. XXIV. The philosopher Tsang said, 'The superior man on grounds of culture meets with his friends, and by their friendship helps his virtue.'
CHAP. XXIV. The philosopher Tsang said, 'A wise man builds friendships based on knowledge, and through those friendships, he nurtures his character.'
BOOK XIII. TSZE-LU.
CHAP. I. 1. Tsze-lu asked about government. The Master said, 'Go before the people with your example, and be laborious in their affairs.' 2. He requested further instruction, and was answered, 'Be not weary (in these things).' CHAP. II. 1. Chung-kung, being chief minister to the Head of the Chi family, asked about government. The Master said, 'Employ
CHAP. I. 1. Tsze-lu asked about government. The Master said, 'Lead by example and work hard for the people's interests.' 2. He asked for more guidance, and was told, 'Don't get tired of these matters.' CHAP. II. 1. Chung-kung, serving as chief minister to the Head of the Chi family, inquired about government. The Master said, 'Utilize
first the services of your various officers, pardon small faults, and raise to office men of virtue and talents.' 2. Chung-kung said, 'How shall I know the men of virtue and talent, so that I may raise them to office?' He was answered, 'Raise to office those whom you know. As to those whom you do not know, will others neglect them?' CHAP. III. 1. Tsze-lu said, 'The ruler of Wei has been waiting for you, in order with you to administer the government. What will you consider the first thing to be done?' 2. The Master replied, 'What is necessary is to rectify names.' 3. 'So, indeed!' said Tsze-lu. 'You are wide of the mark! Why must there be such rectification?' 4. The Master said, 'How uncultivated you are, Yu! A superior man, in regard to what he does not know, shows a cautious reserve. 5. 'If names be not correct, language is not in accordance with
first, the services of your various officers, forgive minor faults, and promote individuals with virtue and skills to positions of authority.' 2. Chung-kung asked, 'How can I identify those with virtue and talent so that I can promote them?' He was told, 'Promote those you know. As for the ones you don’t know, will others ignore them?' CHAP. III. 1. Tsze-lu said, 'The ruler of Wei has been waiting for you so that you can help govern. What do you think should be the first thing to do?' 2. The Master replied, 'The first step is to clarify names.' 3. 'Exactly!' said Tsze-lu. 'You’re missing the point! Why is there a need for such clarification?' 4. The Master said, 'How unrefined you are, Yu! A noble person, regarding what he doesn’t understand, practices cautious restraint. 5. 'If names are not accurate, language does not align with
the truth of things. If language be not in accordance with the truth of things, affairs cannot be carried on to success. 6. 'When affairs cannot be carried on to success, proprieties and music will not flourish. When proprieties and music do not flourish, punishments will not be properly awarded. When punishments are not properly awarded, the people do not know how to move hand or foot. 7. 'Therefore a superior man considers it necessary that the names he uses may be spoken appropriately, and also that what he speaks may be carried out appropriately. What the superior man requires, is just that in his words there may be nothing incorrect.' CHAP. IV. 1. Fan Ch'ih requested to be taught husbandry. The Master said, 'I am not so good for that as an old husbandman.' He
the truth of things. If language doesn’t align with the truth of things, then things can’t succeed. 6. 'When things can’t succeed, customs and music won’t thrive. When customs and music don’t thrive, punishments won’t be properly given. When punishments aren’t properly given, the people don’t know how to act. 7. 'So, a wise person thinks it’s important that the names he uses are spoken correctly, and that what he says is put into action correctly. What the wise person demands is simply that there’s nothing incorrect in his words.' CHAP. IV. 1. Fan Ch'ih asked to be taught farming. The Master said, 'I’m not as good at that as an experienced farmer.' He
requested also to be taught gardening, and was answered, 'I am not so good for that as an old gardener.' 2. Fan Ch'ih having gone out, the Master said, 'A small man, indeed, is Fan Hsu! 3. If a superior love propriety, the people will not dare not to be reverent. If he love righteousness, the people will not dare not to submit to his example. If he love good faith, the people will not dare not to be sincere. Now, when these things obtain, the people from all quarters will come to him, bearing their children on their backs;— what need has he of a knowledge of husbandry?' CHAP. V. The Master said, 'Though a man may be able to recite the three hundred odes, yet if, when intrusted with a governmental charge, he knows not how to act, or if, when sent to any quarter on a mission, he cannot give his replies unassisted, notwithstanding the extent of his learning, of what practical use is it?'
requested also to be taught gardening, and was answered, 'I’m not as good at that as an old gardener.' 2. Fan Ch'ih having gone out, the Master said, 'Fan Hsu is really a small man! 3. If a leader values propriety, the people won’t dare to be disrespectful. If he values righteousness, the people won’t dare to ignore his example. If he values honesty, the people won’t dare to be insincere. When these things happen, people from everywhere will come to him, carrying their children on their backs;— what does he need to know about farming for? CHAP. V. The Master said, 'Even if a man can recite all three hundred odes, if he doesn’t know how to act when trusted with a government position, or if he can’t respond on his own when sent on a mission, then, despite his extensive learning, what practical use is that?'
CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'When a prince's personal conduct is correct, his government is effective without the issuing of orders. If his personal conduct is not correct, he may issue orders, but they will not be followed.' CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'The governments of Lu and Wei are brothers.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said of Ching, a scion of the ducal family of Wei, that he knew the economy of a family well. When he began to have means, he said, 'Ha! here is a collection!' When they were a little increased, he said, 'Ha! this is complete!' When he had become rich, he said, 'Ha! this is admirable!' CHAP. IX. 1. When the Master went to Wei, Zan Yu acted as driver of his carriage. 2. The Master observed, 'How numerous are the people!' 3. Yu said, 'Since they are thus numerous, what more shall be done for them?' 'Enrich them,' was the reply.
CHAP. VI. The Master said, 'When a prince behaves well, his government runs smoothly without needing to give orders. If his behavior is wrong, he can give orders, but they won’t be followed.' CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'The governments of Lu and Wei are like brothers.' CHAP. VIII. The Master spoke of Ching, a member of the ducal family of Wei, saying he understood family finances well. When he first got some money, he said, 'Wow! Look at this collection!' As it grew a bit more, he said, 'Wow! This is complete!' Once he became wealthy, he said, 'Wow! This is impressive!' CHAP. IX. 1. When the Master visited Wei, Zan Yu drove his carriage. 2. The Master noted, 'Look how many people there are!' 3. Yu asked, 'If there are so many, what else should be done for them?' 'Make them wealthy,' was the answer.
4. 'And when they have been enriched, what more shall be done?' The Master said, 'Teach them.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'If there were (any of the princes) who would employ me, in the course of twelve months, I should have done something considerable. In three years, the government would be perfected.' CHAP. XI. The Master said, '"If good men were to govern a country in succession for a hundred years, they would be able to transform the violently bad, and dispense with capital punishments." True indeed is this saying!' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'If a truly royal ruler were to arise, it would still require a generation, and then virtue would prevail.'
4. 'Once they have been enriched, what else should be done?' The Master said, 'Teach them.' CHAP. X. The Master said, 'If any of the princes were to hire me, in a year, I would accomplish something significant. In three years, the government would be perfected.' CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If good people were to govern a country in succession for a hundred years, they would be able to transform the extremely bad and eliminate capital punishments.' Truly, this saying is correct! CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'If a genuinely noble ruler were to arise, it would still take a generation, and then virtue would prevail.'
CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'If a minister make his own conduct correct, what difficulty will he have in assisting in government? If he cannot rectify himself, what has he to do with rectifying others?' CHAP. XIV. The disciple Zan returning from the court, the Master said to him, 'How are you so late?' He replied, 'We had government business.' The Master said, 'It must have been family affairs. If there had been government business, though I am not now in office, I should have been consulted about it.' CHAP. XV. 1. The Duke Ting asked whether there was a single sentence which could make a country prosperous. Confucius replied, 'Such an effect cannot be expected from one sentence. 2. 'There is a saying, however, which people have— "To be a prince is difficult; to be a minister is not easy." 3. 'If a ruler knows this,— the difficulty of being a prince,— may there not be expected from this one sentence the prosperity of his country?' 4. The duke then said, 'Is there a single sentence which can ruin a country?' Confucius replied, 'Such an effect as that cannot be expected from one sentence. There is, however, the saying which people have— "I have no pleasure in being a prince, but only in that no one can offer any opposition to what I say!" 5. 'If a ruler's words be good, is it not also good that no one oppose them? But if they are not good, and no one opposes them, may there not be expected from this one sentence the ruin of his country?' CHAP. XVI. 1. The Duke of Sheh asked about government. 2. The Master said, 'Good government obtains, when those who are near are made happy, and those who are far off are attracted.'
CHAP. XIII. The Master said, "If a minister behaves properly, how hard can it be for him to help run the government? If he can't even get himself right, what can he do about fixing others?" CHAP. XIV. When the disciple Zan came back from the court, the Master asked him, "Why are you so late?" He replied, "We had government business." The Master said, "It must have been family matters. If it were really government business, even though I'm not in office now, I would have been consulted." CHAP. XV. 1. Duke Ting asked if there was a single phrase that could make a country thrive. Confucius replied, "You can't expect such results from just one sentence. 2. "However, there is a saying: 'Being a prince is tough; being a minister isn't easy.' 3. "If a ruler understands this—the difficulty of being a prince—could that one sentence lead to the prosperity of his country?" 4. The duke then asked, "Is there a single sentence that could destroy a country?" Confucius answered, "You can't expect such devastation from just one sentence. There is, however, a saying: 'I take no joy in being a prince, only in making sure no one can challenge what I say!' 5. "If a ruler's words are good, isn't it a good thing if no one opposes them? But if they're not good and no one speaks out, could that one sentence possibly bring about the ruin of his country?" CHAP. XVI. 1. The Duke of Sheh inquired about governance. 2. The Master said, "Good governance happens when those who are close are made happy, and those who are distant are drawn in."
CHAP. XVII. Tsze-hsia, being governor of Chu-fu, asked about government. The Master said, 'Do not be desirous to have things done quickly; do not look at small advantages. Desire to have things done quickly prevents their being done thoroughly. Looking at small advantages prevents great affairs from being accomplished.' CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Duke of Sheh informed Confucius, saying, 'Among us here there are those who may be styled upright in their conduct. If their father have stolen a sheep, they will bear witness to the fact.' 2. Confucius said, 'Among us, in our part of the country, those who are upright are different from this. The father conceals the misconduct of the son, and the son conceals the misconduct of the father. Uprightness is to be found in this.'
CHAP. XVII. Tsze-hsia, serving as governor of Chu-fu, asked about governance. The Master said, "Don't be eager to get things done quickly; don't focus on small benefits. Wanting things done fast prevents them from being done well. Focusing on small benefits stops big achievements from happening." CHAP. XVIII. 1. The Duke of Sheh told Confucius, "Here among us, there are people who can be considered upright in their actions. If their father steals a sheep, they will testify to it." 2. Confucius replied, "Here in our region, those who are upright are different. The father hides the son's wrongdoings, and the son hides the father's wrongdoings. True uprightness is found in this."
CHAP. XIX. Fan Ch'ih asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, 'It is, in retirement, to be sedately grave; in the management of business, to be reverently attentive; in intercourse with others, to be strictly sincere. Though a man go among rude, uncultivated tribes, these qualities may not be neglected.' CHAP. XX. 1. Tsze-kung asked, saying, 'What qualities must a man possess to entitle him to be called an officer? The Master said, 'He who in his conduct of himself maintains a sense of shame, and when sent to any quarter will not disgrace his prince's commission, deserves to be called an officer.' 3. Tsze-kung pursued, 'I venture to ask who may be placed in the next lower rank?' And he was told, 'He whom the circle of his relatives pronounce to be filial, whom his fellow-villagers and neighbours pronounce to be fraternal.' 3. Again the disciple asked, 'I venture to ask about the class still next in order.' The Master said, 'They are determined to be sincere in what they say, and to carry out what they do. They are obstinate little men. Yet perhaps they may make the next class.'
CHAP. XIX. Fan Ch'ih asked about perfect virtue. The Master said, "In solitude, be calmly serious; in handling business, be respectfully attentive; in social interactions, be genuinely sincere. Even if a person finds themselves among rough, unrefined people, they should not neglect these qualities." CHAP. XX. 1. Tsze-kung asked, "What qualities must someone have to be called an officer?" The Master said, "Someone who maintains a sense of shame in their conduct and, when sent on a mission, does not disgrace their prince's orders deserves to be called an officer." 3. Tsze-kung continued, "May I ask who belongs to the next lower rank?" He was told, "Someone whom their relatives call filial and whom their fellow villagers and neighbors call fraternal." 3. The disciple asked again, "Could you tell me about the class just below that?" The Master said, "They are committed to being sincere in their words and to following through on their actions. They can be stubborn little people, but they might still make it to the next class."
4. Tsze-kung finally inquired, 'Of what sort are those of the present day, who engage in government?' The Master said 'Pooh! they are so many pecks and hampers, not worth being taken into account.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'Since I cannot get men pursuing the due medium, to whom I might communicate my instructions, I must find the ardent and the cautiously-decided. The ardent will advance and lay hold of truth; the cautiously-decided will keep themselves from what is wrong.' CHAP. XXII. 1. The Master said, 'The people of the south have a saying— "A man without constancy cannot be either a wizard or a doctor." Good! 2. 'Inconstant in his virtue, he will be visited with disgrace.'
4. Tsze-kung finally asked, 'What are the people like these days who are involved in government?' The Master said, 'Oh! They are just a bunch of insignificant people, not worth considering.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'Since I can't find anyone who is seeking the right balance to whom I can share my teachings, I have to look for those who are passionate and those who are careful in their decisions. The passionate will move forward and grab onto the truth; the careful will avoid what is wrong.' CHAP. XXII. 1. The Master said, 'People in the south have a saying— "A man without consistency can't be either a magician or a healer." That's true! 2. 'If he is inconsistent in his virtue, he will face disgrace.'
3. The Master said, 'This arises simply from not attending to the prognostication.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'The superior man is affable, but not adulatory; the mean man is adulatory, but not affable.' CHAP. XXIV. Tsze-kung asked, saying, 'What do you say of a man who is loved by all the people of his neighborhood?' The Master replied, 'We may not for that accord our approval of him.' 'And what do you say of him who is hated by all the people of his neighborhood?' The Master said, 'We may not for that conclude that he is bad. It is better than either of these cases that the good in the neighborhood love him, and the bad hate him.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'The superior man is easy to serve and difficult to please. If you try to please him in any way which is not accordant with right, he will not be pleased. But in his
3. The Master said, 'This just comes from not paying attention to the signs.' CHAP. XXIII. The Master said, 'A great person is friendly, but not flattering; an average person is flattering, but not friendly.' CHAP. XXIV. Tsze-kung asked, 'What do you think of someone who is loved by everyone in his neighborhood?' The Master replied, 'That doesn’t necessarily mean we should approve of him.' 'And what about someone who is hated by everyone in his neighborhood?' The Master said, 'That doesn’t mean he is bad either. It’s better if the good in the neighborhood love him, and the bad hate him.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'A great person is easy to work with but hard to satisfy. If you try to please him in a way that isn't right, he won't be happy. But in his
employment of men, he uses them according to their capacity. The mean man is difficult to serve, and easy to please. If you try to please him, though it be in a way which is not accordant with right, he may be pleased. But in his employment of men, he wishes them to be equal to everything.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'The superior man has a dignified ease without pride. The mean man has pride without a dignified ease.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue.' CHAP. XXVIII. Tsze-lu asked, saying, 'What qualities must a man possess to entitle him to be called a scholar?' The Master said, 'He must be thus,— earnest, urgent, and bland:— among his friends, earnest and urgent; among his brethren, bland.'
The way he employs men reflects their abilities. A mediocre person is hard to serve but easy to satisfy. If you try to make him happy, even if it’s not the right way, he might be pleased. However, in his employment of people, he expects them to be capable of anything. CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'A superior person has a calm dignity without being arrogant. A mediocre person has arrogance without that dignified calm.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'Those who are strong, resilient, simple, and humble are close to virtue.' CHAP. XXVIII. Tsze-lu asked, 'What qualities must a person have to be considered a scholar?' The Master said, 'He should be earnest, eager, and kind:— earnest and eager with friends; kind with peers.'
CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'Let a good man teach the people seven years, and they may then likewise be employed in war.' CHAP. XXX. The Master said, 'To lead an uninstructed people to war, is to throw them away.'
CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'If a good person teaches the people for seven years, they can then also be used in war.' CHAP. XXX. The Master said, 'To lead an untrained people into war is to waste them.'
BOOK XIV. HSIEN WAN.
CHAP. I. Hsien asked what was shameful. The Master said, 'When good government prevails in a state, to be thinking only of salary; and, when bad government prevails, to be thinking, in the same way, only of salary;— this is shameful.'
CHAP. I. Hsien asked what was shameful. The Master said, 'When good leadership exists in a state, focusing solely on salary; and, when poor leadership exists, still only thinking about salary—this is shameful.'
CHAP. II. 1. 'When the love of superiority, boasting, resentments, and covetousness are repressed, this may be deemed perfect virtue.' 2. The Master said, 'This may be regarded as the achievement of what is difficult. But I do not know that it is to be deemed perfect virtue.' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'The scholar who cherishes the love of comfort is not fit to be deemed a scholar.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'When good government prevails in a state, language may be lofty and bold, and actions the same. When bad government prevails, the actions may be lofty and bold, but the language may be with some reserve.' CHAP. V. The Master said, 'The virtuous will be sure to speak correctly, but those whose speech is good may not always be virtuous. Men of principle are sure to be bold, but those who are bold may not always be men of principle.'
CHAP. II. 1. 'When the desire to be superior, bragging, grudges, and greed are kept in check, this can be seen as true virtue.' 2. The Master said, 'This can be considered an accomplishment of something challenging. But I'm not sure it can be called true virtue.' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'A scholar who values comfort is not worthy of being called a scholar.' CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'When good governance exists in a state, language can be grand and confident, and actions reflect that. When bad governance exists, actions may appear grand and confident, but the language will likely be more restrained.' CHAP. V. The Master said, 'The virtuous are sure to speak accurately, but those who speak well may not always be virtuous. People of principle are sure to be bold, but those who are bold may not always be people of principle.'
CHAP. VI. Nan-kung Kwo, submitting an inquiry to Confucius, said, 'I was skillful at archery, and Ao could move a boat along upon the land, but neither of them died a natural death. Yu and Chi personally wrought at the toils of husbandry, and they became possessors of the kingdom.' The Master made no reply; but when Nan-kung Kwo went out, he said, 'A superior man indeed is this! An esteemer of virtue indeed is this!' CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'Superior men, and yet not always virtuous, there have been, alas! But there never has been a mean man, and, at the same time, virtuous.'
CHAP. VI. Nan-kung Kwo asked Confucius, "I was good at archery, and Ao could pull a boat on land, but neither of them died peacefully. Yu and Chi worked the fields themselves, and they ended up owning the kingdom." The Master didn't respond, but after Nan-kung Kwo left, he said, "What an admirable person! Truly someone who values virtue!" CHAP. VII. The Master said, "There have been superior men who weren't always virtuous, but there has never been an inferior man who was also virtuous."
CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'Can there be love which does not lead to strictness with its object? Can there be loyalty which does not lead to the instruction of its object?' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'In preparing the governmental notifications, P'i Shan first made the rough draft; Shi-shu examined and discussed its contents; Tsze-yu, the manager of Foreign intercourse, then polished the style; and, finally, Tsze-ch'an of Tung-li gave it the proper elegance and finish.' CHAP. X. 1. Some one asked about Tsze-ch'an. The Master said, 'He was a kind man.' 2. He asked about Tsze-hsi. The Master said, 'That man! That man!' 3. He asked about Kwan Chung. 'For him,' said the Master, 'the city of Pien, with three hundred families, was taken from the chief of the Po family, who did not utter a murmuring word, though, to the end of his life, he had only coarse rice to eat.'
CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'Is there love that doesn’t involve being strict with its object? Is there loyalty that doesn’t guide its object?' CHAP. IX. The Master said, 'When preparing the governmental notifications, P'i Shan first created the rough draft; Shi-shu reviewed and discussed its content; Tsze-yu, who managed foreign relations, then refined the writing; and finally, Tsze-ch'an of Tung-li added the finishing touches and elegance.' CHAP. X. 1. Someone asked about Tsze-ch'an. The Master said, 'He was a kind person.' 2. He asked about Tsze-hsi. The Master said, 'That man! That man!' 3. He asked about Kwan Chung. 'For him,' said the Master, 'the city of Pien, with three hundred families, was taken from the head of the Po family, who didn't complain even though he lived his whole life eating only plain rice.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'To be poor without murmuring is difficult. To be rich without being proud is easy.' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'Mang Kung-ch'o is more than fit to be chief officer in the families of Chao and Wei, but he is not fit to be great officer to either of the States Tang or Hsieh.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Tsze-lu asked what constituted a COMPLETE man. The Master said, 'Suppose a man with the knowledge of Tsang Wu-chung, the freedom from covetousness of Kung-ch'o, the bravery of Chwang of Pien, and the varied talents of Zan Ch'iu; add to these the accomplishments of the rules of propriety and music:— such a one might be reckoned a COMPLETE man.' 2. He then added, 'But what is the necessity for a complete man of the present day to have all these things? The man, who in the
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'It's tough to be poor without complaining. It's easy to be rich without getting arrogant.' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'Mang Kung-ch'o is more than qualified to be the chief officer in the families of Chao and Wei, but he’s not suitable to be a high-ranking officer in either of the States Tang or Hsieh.' CHAP. XIII. 1. Tsze-lu asked what makes a COMPLETE man. The Master said, 'Imagine a person with the knowledge of Tsang Wu-chung, the lack of greed of Kung-ch'o, the courage of Chwang of Pien, and the diverse skills of Zan Ch'iu; plus the skills in propriety and music—such a person could be considered a COMPLETE man.' 2. He then added, 'But why does a complete man today need all these qualities? The person who in the
view of gain, thinks of righteousness; who in the view of danger is prepared to give up his life; and who does not forget an old agreement however far back it extends:— such a man may be reckoned a COMPLETE man.' CHAP. XIV. 1. The Master asked Kung-ming Chia about Kung- shu Wan, saying, 'Is it true that your master speaks not, laughs not, and takes not?' 2. Kung-ming Chia replied, 'This has arisen from the reporters going beyond the truth.— My master speaks when it is the time to speak, and so men do not get tired of his speaking. He laughs when there is occasion to be joyful, and so men do not get tired of his laughing. He takes when it is consistent with righteousness to do so, and so men do not get tired of his taking.' The Master said, 'So! But is it so with him?'
view of gain, thinks about what is right; who, in the face of danger, is ready to sacrifice his life; and who doesn't forget an old agreement no matter how long ago it was made:— such a person can be considered a COMPLETE person.' CHAP. XIV. 1. The Master asked Kung-ming Chia about Kung-shu Wan, saying, 'Is it true that your master doesn't speak, doesn't laugh, and doesn't take anything?' 2. Kung-ming Chia replied, 'This has come from reporters stretching the truth.— My master speaks when it's the right time to speak, so people don't get tired of his words. He laughs when there's a reason to be happy, so people don't get tired of his laughter. He takes when it's right to do so, so people don't get tired of his taking.' The Master said, 'Really? But is it really like that with him?'
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Tsang Wu-chung, keeping possession of Fang, asked of the duke of Lu to appoint a successor to him in his family. Although it may be said that he was not using force with his sovereign, I believe he was.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'The duke Wan of Tsin was crafty and not upright. The duke Hwan of Ch'i was upright and not crafty.' CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-lu said, 'The Duke Hwan caused his brother Chiu to be killed, when Shao Hu died with his master, but Kwan Chung did not die. May not I say that he was wanting in virtue?'
CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'Tsang Wu-chung, who held onto Fang, asked the duke of Lu to appoint a successor in his family. While it might be argued that he didn't use force against his sovereign, I think he did.' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'Duke Wan of Tsin was cunning and not honest. Duke Hwan of Ch'i was honest and not cunning.' CHAP. XVII. 1. Tsze-lu said, 'Duke Hwan had his brother Chiu killed when Shao Hu died with his master, but Kwan Chung survived. Can I not say he lacked virtue?'
2. The Master said, 'The Duke Hwan assembled all the princes together, and that not with weapons of war and chariots:— it was all through the influence of Kwan Chung. Whose beneficence was like his? Whose beneficence was like his?' CHAP. XVIII. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Kwan Chung, I apprehend, was wanting in virtue. When the Duke Hwan caused his brother Chiu to be killed, Kwan Chung was not able to die with him. Moreover, he became prime minister to Hwan.' 2. The Master said, 'Kwan Chung acted as prime minister to the Duke Hwan, made him leader of all the princes, and united and rectified the whole kingdom. Down to the present day, the people enjoy the gifts which he conferred. But for Kwan Chung, we should now be wearing our hair unbound, and the lappets of our coats buttoning on the left side. 3. 'Will you require from him the small fidelity of common
2. The Master said, 'Duke Hwan brought all the princes together, and it wasn’t through weapons or chariots—it was entirely due to Kwan Chung's influence. Who else has shown such kindness? Who else has shown such kindness?' CHAP. XVIII. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Kwan Chung, I think, lacked virtue. When Duke Hwan had his brother Chiu killed, Kwan Chung didn’t die with him. Besides, he became the prime minister to Hwan.' 2. The Master said, 'Kwan Chung served as prime minister to Duke Hwan, made him the leader of all the princes, and united and improved the entire kingdom. Even today, people benefit from the contributions he made. If it weren't for Kwan Chung, we would still be wearing our hair down and our coats buttoned on the left side. 3. 'Are you expecting from him the minor loyalty of ordinary people?'
men and common women, who would commit suicide in a stream or ditch, no one knowing anything about them?' CHAP. XIX. 1. The great officer, Hsien, who had been family- minister to Kung-shu Wan, ascended to the prince's court in company with Wan. 2. The Master, having heard of it, said, 'He deserved to be considered WAN (the accomplished).' CHAP. XX. 1. The Master was speaking about the unprincipled course of the duke Ling of Wei, when Ch'i K'ang said, 'Since he is of such a character, how is it he does not lose his State?' 2. Confucius said, 'The Chung-shu Yu has the superintendence of his guests and of strangers; the litanist, T'o, has the management
men and ordinary women, who would take their own lives in a stream or ditch, with no one knowing anything about them?' CHAP. XIX. 1. The high-ranking official, Hsien, who had been the family minister to Kung-shu Wan, went to the prince's court alongside Wan. 2. The Master, upon hearing this, said, 'He deserves to be regarded as WAN (the accomplished).' CHAP. XX. 1. The Master was talking about the unethical actions of Duke Ling of Wei, when Ch'i K'ang asked, 'Given his character, how does he not lose his state?' 2. Confucius replied, 'The Chung-shu Yu is in charge of his guests and outsiders; the litanist, T'o, oversees the management
of his ancestral temple; and Wang-sun Chia has the direction of the army and forces:— with such officers as these, how should he lose his State?' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good.' CHAP. XXII. 1. Chan Ch'ang murdered the Duke Chien of Ch'i. 2. Confucius bathed, went to court, and informed the duke Ai, saying, 'Chan Hang has slain his sovereign. I beg that you will undertake to punish him.' 3. The duke said, 'Inform the chiefs of the three families of it.' 4. Confucius retired, and said, 'Following in the rear of the great officers, I did not dare not to represent such a matter, and my prince says, "Inform the chiefs of the three families of it."' 5. He went to the chiefs, and informed them, but they would not act. Confucius then said, 'Following in the rear of the great officers, I did not dare not to represent such a matter.' CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-lu asked how a ruler should be served. The Master said, 'Do not impose on him, and, moreover, withstand him to his face.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'The progress of the superior man is upwards; the progress of the mean man is downwards.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'In ancient times, men learned with a view to their own improvement. Now-a-days, men learn with a view to the approbation of others.' CHAP. XXVI. 1. Chu Po-yu sent a messenger with friendly inquiries to Confucius. 2. Confucius sat with him, and questioned him. 'What,' said he, 'is your master engaged in?' The messenger replied, 'My master is
of his ancestral temple; and Wang-sun Chia is in charge of the army and forces:— with officers like these, how could he lose his State?' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'Someone who speaks without humility will struggle to make their words meaningful.' CHAP. XXII. 1. Chan Ch'ang killed Duke Chien of Ch'i. 2. Confucius bathed, went to court, and informed Duke Ai, saying, 'Chan Hang has killed his lord. I request that you take action against him.' 3. The duke replied, 'Notify the leaders of the three families about this.' 4. Confucius left and said, 'Following behind the high officials, I felt it necessary to address such a serious issue, and my prince says, "Notify the leaders of the three families."' 5. He went to inform the leaders, but they refused to act. Confucius then stated, 'Following behind the high officials, I felt it necessary to address such a serious issue.' CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-lu asked how to serve a ruler. The Master said, 'Do not impose on him, and also confront him directly.' CHAP. XXIV. The Master said, 'The progress of a superior person is upwards; the progress of an average person is downwards.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'In ancient times, people learned for their own betterment. Nowadays, people learn for the approval of others.' CHAP. XXVI. 1. Chu Po-yu sent a messenger with friendly inquiries to Confucius. 2. Confucius sat with him and asked, 'What,' he said, 'is your master doing?' The messenger replied, 'My master is
anxious to make his faults few, but he has not yet succeeded.' He then went out, and the Master said, 'A messenger indeed! A messenger indeed!' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'He who is not in any particular office, has nothing to do with plans for the administration of its duties.' CHAP. XXVIII. The philosopher Tsang said, 'The superior man, in his thoughts, does not go out of his place.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.' CHAP. XXX. 1. The Master said, 'The way of the superior man is threefold, but I am not equal to it. Virtuous, he is free from anxieties; wise, he is free from perplexities; bold, he is free from fear. 2. Tsze-kung said, 'Master, that is what you yourself say.'
anxious to minimize his faults, but he hasn't achieved that yet.' He then stepped outside, and the Master commented, 'A messenger indeed! A messenger indeed!' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'Someone who isn't in a specific role shouldn't be involved in planning how to manage its responsibilities.' CHAP. XXVIII. The philosopher Tsang said, 'The superior person doesn't let their thoughts wander outside their role.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'The superior person is modest in their speech but excels in their actions.' CHAP. XXX. 1. The Master said, 'The path of the superior person has three elements, but I can't measure up. Virtuous, they are free from worries; wise, they are free from confusion; courageous, they are free from fear. 2. Tsze-kung said, 'Master, that's what you yourself say.'
CHAP. XXXI. Tsze-kung was in the habit of comparing men together. The Master said, 'Tsze must have reached a high pitch of excellence! Now, I have not leisure for this.' CHAP. XXXII. The Master said, 'I will not be concerned at men's not knowing me; I will be concerned at my own want of ability.' CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, 'He who does not anticipate attempts to deceive him, nor think beforehand of his not being believed, and yet apprehends these things readily (when they occur);— is he not a man of superior worth?' CHAP. XXXIV. 1. Wei-shang Mau said to Confucius, 'Ch'iu, how is it that you keep roosting about? Is it not that you are an insinuating talker?' 2. Confucius said, 'I do not dare to play the part of such a talker, but I hate obstinacy.'
CHAP. XXXI. Tsze-kung often compared people to each other. The Master said, 'Tsze must be extremely accomplished! As for me, I don’t have the time for this.' CHAP. XXXII. The Master said, 'I won't worry about people not recognizing me; I'll worry about my own lack of ability.' CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, 'Isn't someone who doesn't anticipate attempts to deceive them, nor considers that they might not be believed, and yet recognizes these things quickly when they happen, a person of great worth?' CHAP. XXXIV. 1. Wei-shang Mau said to Confucius, 'Ch'iu, why do you keep hanging around? Isn't it because you're a smooth talker?' 2. Confucius replied, 'I don't dare to be that kind of talker, but I can't stand stubbornness.'
CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, 'A horse is called a ch'i, not
because of its strength, but because of its other good qualities.'
CHAP. XXXVI. 1. Some one said, 'What do you say concerning
the principle that injury should be recompensed with kindness?'
2. The Master said, 'With what then will you recompense
kindness?
3. 'Recompense injury with justice, and recompense kindness
with kindness.'
CHAP. XXXVII. 1. The Master said, 'Alas! there is no one that
knows me.'
2. Tsze-kung said, 'What do you mean by thus saying— that
no one knows you?' The Master replied, 'I do not murmur against
CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, 'A horse is called a ch'i, not
because of its strength, but because of its other good qualities.'
CHAP. XXXVI. 1. Someone asked, 'What do you think about the
idea that injuries should be repaid with kindness?'
2. The Master responded, 'Then how will you repay
kindness?
3. 'Repay injuries with justice, and repay kindness
with kindness.'
CHAP. XXXVII. 1. The Master said, 'Alas! there is no one who
understands me.'
2. Tsze-kung asked, 'What do you mean when you say that
no one understands you?' The Master replied, 'I do not complain about
Heaven. I do not grumble against men. My studies lie low, and my penetration rises high. But there is Heaven;— that knows me!' CHAP. XXXVIII. 1. The Kung-po Liao, having slandered Tsze-lu to Chi-sun, Tsze-fu Ching-po informed Confucius of it, saying, 'Our master is certainly being led astray by the Kung-po Liao, but I have still power enough left to cut Liao off, and expose his corpse in the market and in the court.' 2. The Master said, 'If my principles are to advance, it is so ordered. If they are to fall to the ground, it is so ordered. What can the Kung-po Liao do where such ordering is concerned?'
Heaven. I don’t complain about people. My focus is grounded, but my insight is high. But there is Heaven; that knows me! CHAP. XXXVIII. 1. The Kung-po Liao, having slandered Tsze-lu to Chi-sun, Tsze-fu Ching-po informed Confucius of it, saying, 'Our master is certainly being misled by the Kung-po Liao, but I still have enough power left to cut Liao off and display his corpse in the market and in the court.' 2. The Master said, 'If my principles are meant to thrive, it will be so. If they are meant to fail, it will be so. What can the Kung-po Liao do regarding such matters?'
CHAP. XXXIX. 1. The Master said, 'Some men of worth retire
from the world.
2. Some retire from particular states.
3. Some retire because of disrespectful looks.
4. Some retire because of contradictory language.'
CHAP. XL. The Master said, 'Those who have done this are
seven men.'
CHAP. XLI. Tsze-lu happening to pass the night in Shih-man,
the gatekeeper said to him, 'Whom do you come from?' Tsze-lu said,
'From Mr. K'ung.' 'It is he,— is it not?'— said the other, 'who knows
the impracticable nature of the times and yet will be doing in
them.'
CHAP. XLII. 1. The Master was playing, one day, on a musical
stone in Wei, when a man, carrying a straw basket, passed the door
CHAP. XXXIX. 1. The Master said, 'Some good men withdraw
from society.
2. Some withdraw from specific places.
3. Some withdraw due to disrespectful glances.
4. Some withdraw because of conflicting statements.'
CHAP. XL. The Master said, 'These actions have been taken by
seven men.'
CHAP. XLI. Tsze-lu, while spending the night in Shih-man,
was asked by the gatekeeper, 'Who are you here from?' Tsze-lu replied,
'From Mr. K'ung.' 'It's him, isn't it?' the gatekeeper said, 'who understands
the impossible nature of the times yet continues to take action within them.'
CHAP. XLII. 1. One day, while the Master was playing a musical
stone in Wei, a man carrying a straw basket walked by the door
of the house where Confucius was, and said, 'His heart is full who so beats the musical stone.' 2. A little while after, he added, 'How contemptible is the one-ideaed obstinacy those sounds display! When one is taken no notice of, he has simply at once to give over his wish for public employment. "Deep water must be crossed with the clothes on; shallow water may be crossed with the clothes held up."' 3. The Master said, 'How determined is he in his purpose! But this is not difficult!' CHAP. XLIII. 1. Tsze-chang said, 'What is meant when the Shu says that Kao-tsung, while observing the usual imperial mourning, was for three years without speaking?' 2. The Master said, 'Why must Kao-tsung be referred to as an example of this? The ancients all did so. When the sovereign died, the officers all attended to their several duties, taking instructions from the prime minister for three years.'
of the house where Confucius was, and said, 'His heart is full who so beats the musical stone.' 2. A little while after, he added, 'How contemptible is the one-ideaed obstinacy those sounds display! When someone is ignored, they just have to give up their hopes for public employment. "Deep water must be crossed with the clothes on; shallow water may be crossed with the clothes held up."' 3. The Master said, 'How determined he is in his purpose! But this is not difficult!' CHAP. XLIII. 1. Tsze-chang said, 'What does the Shu mean when it says that Kao-tsung, while observing the usual imperial mourning, was for three years without speaking?' 2. The Master said, 'Why must Kao-tsung be used as an example of this? The ancients all did the same. When the sovereign died, the officers all attended to their respective duties, taking instructions from the prime minister for three years.'
CHAP. XLIV. The Master said, 'When rulers love to observe the rules of propriety, the people respond readily to the calls on them for service.' CHAP. XLV. Tsze-lu asked what constituted the superior man. The Master said, 'The cultivation of himself in reverential carefulness.' 'And is this all?' said Tsze-lu. 'He cultivates himself so as to give rest to others,' was the reply. 'And is this all?' again asked Tsze-lu. The Master said, 'He cultivates himself so as to give rest to all the people. He cultivates himself so as to give rest to all the people:— even Yao and Shun were still solicitous about this.' CHAP. XLVI. Yuan Zang was squatting on his heels, and
CHAP. XLIV. The Master said, 'When leaders prioritize following proper behavior, the people are quick to respond to their requests for help.' CHAP. XLV. Tsze-lu asked what makes a superior person. The Master replied, 'It’s about developing oneself with careful respect.' 'Is that everything?' asked Tsze-lu. 'He develops himself to bring peace to others,' was the answer. 'Is that everything?' Tsze-lu asked again. The Master said, 'He develops himself to bring peace to all the people. He develops himself to bring peace to all the people:— even Yao and Shun were still concerned about this.' CHAP. XLVI. Yuan Zang was squatting on his heels, and
so waited the approach of the Master, who said to him, 'In youth not humble as befits a junior; in manhood, doing nothing worthy of being handed down; and living on to old age:— this is to be a pest.' With this he hit him on the shank with his staff. CHAP. XLVI. 1. A youth of the village of Ch'ueh was employed by Confucius to carry the messages between him and his visitors. Some one asked about him, saying, 'I suppose he has made great progress.' 2. The Master said, 'I observe that he is fond of occupying the seat of a full-grown man; I observe that he walks shoulder to shoulder with his elders. He is not one who is seeking to make progress in learning. He wishes quickly to become a man.'
so waited for the Master to arrive, who said to him, 'In your youth, you weren't humble enough for someone younger; in your adulthood, you didn't do anything worth being remembered; and as you get older:— this is what makes you a burden.' With that, he struck him on the leg with his staff. CHAP. XLVI. 1. A young man from the village of Ch'ueh was assigned by Confucius to deliver messages between him and his visitors. Someone asked about him, saying, 'I assume he has made significant progress.' 2. The Master replied, 'I've noticed that he likes to take the place of an adult; I see that he walks alongside his elders. He's not someone who is trying to advance in learning. He just wants to grow up quickly.'
BOOK XV. WEI LING KUNG.
CHAP. I. 1. The Duke Ling of Wei asked Confucius about tactics. Confucius replied, 'I have heard all about sacrificial vessels, but I have not learned military matters.' On this, he took his departure the next day. 2. When he was in Chan, their provisions were exhausted, and his followers became so ill that they were unable to rise. 3. Tsze-lu, with evident dissatisfaction, said, 'Has the superior man likewise to endure in this way?' The Master said, 'The superior man may indeed have to endure want, but the mean man, when he is in want, gives way to unbridled license.'
CHAP. I. 1. Duke Ling of Wei asked Confucius about military strategies. Confucius replied, 'I know a lot about ceremonial vessels, but I haven't studied military affairs.' After this, he left the next day. 2. When they were in Chan, their supplies ran out, and his followers became so sick that they couldn't get up. 3. Tsze-lu, clearly frustrated, said, 'Does the superior person really have to suffer like this?' The Master replied, 'The superior person may indeed have to endure hardship, but the ordinary person, when in need, gives in to uncontrolled behavior.'
CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you think, I suppose, that
I am one who learns many things and keeps them in memory?'
2. Tsze-kung replied, 'Yes,— but perhaps it is not so?'
3. 'No,' was the answer; 'I seek a unity all-pervading.'
CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Yu, those who know virtue are
few.'
CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'May not Shun be instanced as
having governed efficiently without exertion? What did he do? He
did nothing but gravely and reverently occupy his royal seat.'
CHAP. V. 1. Tsze-chang asked how a man should conduct
himself, so as to be everywhere appreciated.
2. The Master said, 'Let his words be sincere and truthful, and
his actions honourable and careful;— such conduct may be practised
among the rude tribes of the South or the North. If his words be
CHAP. II. 1. The Master said, 'Ts'ze, you probably think that
I am someone who learns a lot and remembers it all?'
2. Tsze-kung replied, 'Yes—but maybe that’s not the case?'
3. 'No,' he responded; 'I seek a universal understanding.'
CHAP. III. The Master said, 'Yu, there aren't many who truly understand virtue.'
CHAP. IV. The Master said, 'Isn’t Shun an example of someone who governed effectively without making a fuss? What did he do? He simply sat solemnly and respectfully on his throne.'
CHAP. V. 1. Tsze-chang asked how a person should behave in order to be appreciated everywhere.
2. The Master said, 'His words should be genuine and honest, and his actions should be honorable and mindful; this kind of behavior can be practiced among the uncivilized tribes of the South or the North. If his words are...
not sincere and truthful and his actions not honourable and careful, will he, with such conduct, be appreciated, even in his neighborhood? 3. 'When he is standing, let him see those two things, as it were, fronting him. When he is in a carriage, let him see them attached to the yoke. Then may he subsequently carry them into practice.' 4. Tsze-chang wrote these counsels on the end of his sash. CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'Truly straightforward was the historiographer Yu. When good government prevailed in his State, he was like an arrow. When bad government prevailed, he was like an arrow. 2. A superior man indeed is Chu Po-yu! When good government prevails in his state, he is to be found in office. When bad government prevails, he can roll his principles up, and keep them in his breast.'
not sincere and truthful, and his actions not honorable and careful, will he, with such behavior, be respected, even in his neighborhood? 3. 'When he stands, let him see those two things, so to speak, in front of him. When he is in a carriage, let him see them attached to the yoke. Then may he put them into practice later.' 4. Tsze-chang wrote these pieces of advice on the end of his sash. CHAP. VI. 1. The Master said, 'Truly straightforward was the historian Yu. When good government was in charge of his state, he was like an arrow. When bad government was in charge, he was still like an arrow. 2. A truly superior man is Chu Po-yu! When good government prevails in his state, he is found in office. When bad government prevails, he can keep his principles close to his heart.'
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'When a man may be spoken with, not to speak to him is to err in reference to the man. When a man may not be spoken with, to speak to him is to err in reference to our words. The wise err neither in regard to their man nor to their words.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'The determined scholar and the man of virtue will not seek to live at the expense of injuring their virtue. They will even sacrifice their lives to preserve their virtue complete.' CHAP. IX. Tsze-kung asked about the practice of virtue. The Master said, 'The mechanic, who wishes to do his work well, must first sharpen his tools. When you are living in any state, take service with the most worthy among its great officers, and make friends of the most virtuous among its scholars.' CHAP. X. 1. Yen Yuan asked how the government of a country should be administered. 2. The Master said, 'Follow the seasons of Hsia.
CHAP. VII. The Master said, 'When you can communicate with someone, not doing so is a mistake regarding that person. When you cannot communicate with someone, trying to is a mistake about our words. The wise make no mistakes concerning either people or their words.' CHAP. VIII. The Master said, 'A dedicated scholar and a person of virtue will not try to live if it means compromising their virtue. They would even be willing to sacrifice their lives to keep their virtue intact.' CHAP. IX. Tsze-kung asked about practicing virtue. The Master said, 'A craftsman who wants to do a good job must first sharpen his tools. When you live in any state, serve the most worthy among its leaders, and befriend the most virtuous among its scholars.' CHAP. X. 1. Yen Yuan asked how a country should be governed. 2. The Master said, 'Follow the seasons of Hsia.'
3. 'Ride in the state carriage of Yin.
4. 'Wear the ceremonial cap of Chau.
5. 'Let the music be the Shao with its pantomimes.
6. Banish the songs of Chang, and keep far from specious
talkers. The songs of Chang are licentious; specious talkers are
dangerous.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If a man take no thought about
what is distant, he will find sorrow near at hand.'
CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'It is all over! I have not seen one
who loves virtue as he loves beauty.'
CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'Was not Tsang Wan like one
who had stolen his situation? He knew the virtue and the talents
3. 'Ride in the royal carriage of Yin.
4. 'Wear the ceremonial cap of Chau.
5. 'Let the music be the Shao with its performances.
6. Don't listen to the songs of Chang, and stay away from misleading talkers. The songs of Chang are immoral; misleading talkers are dangerous.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, 'If a person doesn't think about what’s far away, they will find trouble nearby.'
CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'It’s hopeless! I haven’t seen anyone who loves virtue as much as they love beauty.'
CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'Wasn’t Tsang Wan like someone who had taken his position unfairly? He understood virtue and talents.'
of Hui of Liu-hsia, and yet did not procure that he should stand with him in court.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'He who requires much from himself and little from others, will keep himself from being the object of resentment.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'When a man is not in the habit of saying— "What shall I think of this? What shall I think of this?" I can indeed do nothing with him!' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'When a number of people are together, for a whole day, without their conversation turning on righteousness, and when they are fond of carrying out the suggestions of a small shrewdness;— theirs is indeed a hard case.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'The superior man in everything considers righteousness to be essential. He performs it according to the rules of propriety. He brings it forth in humility. He completes it with sincerity. This is indeed a superior man.'
of Hui of Liu-hsia, and yet did not ensure that he stood with him in court. CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'Those who demand a lot from themselves and little from others will avoid being resented.' CHAP. XV. The Master said, 'When a person doesn’t often ask— "What should I think about this? What should I think about this?" I truly can't do anything with him!' CHAP. XVI. The Master said, 'When a group of people spends an entire day together without talking about righteousness and prefer to act on minor cleverness;— they are indeed in a difficult situation.' CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'The noble person considers righteousness essential in everything. They practice it according to proper etiquette. They express it with humility. They fulfill it with sincerity. This is truly a noble person.'
CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'The superior man is distressed by his want of ability. He is not distressed by men's not knowing him.' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'The superior man dislikes the thought of his name not being mentioned after his death.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'What the superior man seeks, is in himself. What the mean man seeks, is in others.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'The superior man is dignified, but does not wrangle. He is sociable, but not a partizan.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'The superior man does not promote a man simply on account of his words, nor does he put aside good words because of the man.'
CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'The truly great person feels troubled by their lack of ability. They are not bothered by others not recognizing them.' CHAP. XIX. The Master said, 'The truly great person dislikes the idea of their name being forgotten after they die.' CHAP. XX. The Master said, 'What the truly great person seeks is within themselves. What the average person seeks is in others.' CHAP. XXI. The Master said, 'The truly great person is dignified but doesn't argue. They are friendly but not biased.' CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'The truly great person doesn’t promote someone just because of their words, nor do they disregard good words because of who said them.'
CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-kung asked, saying, 'Is there one word which may serve as a rule of practice for all one's life?' The Master said, 'Is not RECIPROCITY such a word? What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.' CHAP. XXIV. 1. The Master said, 'In my dealings with men, whose evil do I blame, whose goodness do I praise, beyond what is proper? If I do sometimes exceed in praise, there must be ground for it in my examination of the individual. 2. 'This people supplied the ground why the three dynasties pursued the path of straightforwardness.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Even in my early days, a historiographer would leave a blank in his text, and he who had a horse would lend him to another to ride. Now, alas! there are no such things.'
CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-kung asked, “Is there one word that can guide us in life?” The Master replied, “Isn’t RECIPROCITY that word? Don’t do to others what you don’t want done to you.” CHAP. XXIV. 1. The Master said, “In my interactions with people, whose faults do I blame or whose goodness do I praise more than is appropriate? If I do sometimes praise too much, there must be a valid reason based on my assessment of the person. 2. “The people’s behavior is why the three dynasties followed the principle of honesty.” CHAP. XXV. The Master said, “Even in my youth, a historian would leave space in his writing, and someone with a horse would lend it to another to ride. Now, unfortunately, such things no longer exist.”
CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'Specious words confound virtue. Want of forbearance in small matters confounds great plans.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'When the multitude hate a man, it is necessary to examine into the case. When the multitude like a man, it is necessary to examine into the case.' CHAP. XXVIII. The Master said, 'A man can enlarge the principles which he follows; those principles do not enlarge the man.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'To have faults and not to reform them,— this, indeed, should be pronounced having faults.' CHAP. XXX. The Master said, 'I have been the whole day
CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'Pretty words confuse virtue. Lack of patience in small matters undermines big plans.' CHAP. XXVII. The Master said, 'When many people dislike someone, it's important to look into the situation. When many people like someone, it's also important to look into the situation.' CHAP. XXVIII. The Master said, 'A person can expand the principles they follow; those principles do not expand the person.' CHAP. XXIX. The Master said, 'Having faults and not fixing them—this is what truly counts as having faults.' CHAP. XXX. The Master said, 'I have been the whole day
without eating, and the whole night without sleeping:— occupied with thinking. It was of no use. The better plan is to learn.' CHAP. XXXI. The Master said, 'The object of the superior man is truth. Food is not his object. There is plowing;— even in that there is sometimes want. So with learning;— emolument may be found in it. The superior man is anxious lest he should not get truth; he is not anxious lest poverty should come upon him.' CHAP. XXXII. 1. The Master said, 'When a man's knowledge is sufficient to attain, and his virtue is not sufficient to enable him to hold, whatever he may have gained, he will lose again. 2. 'When his knowledge is sufficient to attain, and he has virtue enough to hold fast, if he cannot govern with dignity, the people will not respect him. 3. 'When his knowledge is sufficient to attain, and he has virtue enough to hold fast; when he governs also with dignity, yet if he try to move the people contrary to the rules of propriety:— full excellence is not reached.'
without eating, and the whole night without sleeping:— occupied with thinking. It was pointless. A better approach is to learn.' CHAP. XXXI. The Master said, 'The goal of a great person is truth. Food is not their focus. There’s farming;— even in that, there can sometimes be a lack. The same goes for learning;— benefits can be found in it. The great person worries more about not finding the truth than about falling into poverty.' CHAP. XXXII. 1. The Master said, 'When a person's knowledge is enough to achieve something, but their character isn't strong enough to keep it, whatever they gain will be lost. 2. 'When their knowledge is enough to achieve something, and they have the character to keep it, if they cannot lead with dignity, people will not respect them. 3. 'When their knowledge is enough to achieve something, and they have the character to keep it; when they also lead with dignity, yet if they try to move people against the rules of decorum:— true excellence is not attained.'
CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, 'The superior man cannot be known in little matters; but he may be intrusted with great concerns. The small man may not be intrusted with great concerns, but he may be known in little matters.' CHAP. XXXIV. The Master said, 'Virtue is more to man than either water or fire. I have seen men die from treading on water and fire, but I have never seen a man die from treading the course of virtue.' CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, 'Let every man consider virtue as what devolves on himself. He may not yield the performance of it even to his teacher.'
CHAP. XXXIII. The Master said, "A great person can't be measured by small things, but they can be trusted with important matters. A small person can't be trusted with important matters, but they can be known by small things." CHAP. XXXIV. The Master said, "Virtue matters more to a person than water or fire. I've seen people die from being in water and fire, but I've never seen anyone die from following the path of virtue." CHAP. XXXV. The Master said, "Everyone should see virtue as their own responsibility. They shouldn't hand over their obligation to perform it, even to their teacher."
CHAP. XXXVI. The Master said, 'The superior man is correctly firm, and not firm merely.' CHAP. XXXVII. The Master said, 'A minister, in serving his prince, reverently discharges his duties, and makes his emolument a secondary consideration.' CHAP. XXXVIII. The Master said, 'In teaching there should be no distinction of classes.' CHAP. XXXIX. The Master said, 'Those whose courses are different cannot lay plans for one another.' CHAP. XL. The Master said, 'In language it is simply required that it convey the meaning.' CHAP. XLI. 1. The Music-master, Mien, having called upon him, when they came to the steps, the Master said, 'Here are the steps.' When they came to the mat for the guest to sit upon, he
CHAP. XXXVI. The Master said, 'A true gentleman is confidently strong, not just strong.' CHAP. XXXVII. The Master said, 'A minister, when serving his ruler, perform his duties respectfully, making his salary a secondary concern.' CHAP. XXXVIII. The Master said, 'In teaching, there should be no differences based on class.' CHAP. XXXIX. The Master said, 'People on different paths can't plan for each other.' CHAP. XL. The Master said, 'In language, the only requirement is that it conveys meaning.' CHAP. XLI. 1. The Music-master, Mien, came to see him, and when they reached the steps, the Master said, 'Here are the steps.' When they arrived at the mat for the guest to sit on, he
said, 'Here is the mat.' When all were seated, the Master informed him, saying, 'So and so is here; so and so is here.' 2. The Music-master, Mien, having gone out, Tsze-chang asked, saying. 'Is it the rule to tell those things to the Music- master?' 3. The Master said, 'Yes. This is certainly the rule for those who lead the blind.'
said, 'Here is the mat.' When everyone was seated, the Master told him, saying, 'So and so is here; so and so is here.' 2. The Music-master, Mien, had gone out, and Tsze-chang asked, 'Is it customary to inform the Music-master about these things?' 3. The Master replied, 'Yes. This is definitely the rule for those who guide the blind.'
BOOK XVI. KE SHE.
CHAP. I. 1. The head of the Chi family was going to attack Chwan-yu. 2. Zan Yu and Chi-lu had an interview with Confucius, and said, 'Our chief, Chi, is going to commence operations against Chwan-yu.' 3. Confucius said, 'Ch'iu, is it not you who are in fault here? 4. 'Now, in regard to Chwan-yu, long ago, a former king appointed its ruler to preside over the sacrifices to the eastern Mang; moreover, it is in the midst of the territory of our State; and its ruler is a minister in direct connexion with the sovereign:— What has your chief to do with attacking it?' 5. Zan Yu said, 'Our master wishes the thing; neither of us two ministers wishes it.' 6. Confucius said, 'Ch'iu, there are the words of Chau Zan,— "When he can put forth his ability, he takes his place in the ranks of office; when he finds himself unable to do so, he retires from it. How can he be used as a guide to a blind man, who does not support him when tottering, nor raise him up when fallen?" 7. 'And further, you speak wrongly. When a tiger or rhinoceros escapes from his cage; when a tortoise or piece of jade is injured in its repository:— whose is the fault?' 8. Zan Yu said, 'But at present, Chwan-yu is strong and near to Pi; if our chief do not now take it, it will hereafter be a sorrow to his descendants.' 9. Confucius said. 'Ch'iu, the superior man hates that declining to say— "I want such and such a thing," and framing explanations for the conduct. 10. 'I have heard that rulers of States and chiefs of families are not troubled lest their people should be few, but are troubled lest they should not keep their several places; that they are not troubled with fears of poverty, but are troubled with fears of a want of contented repose among the people in their several places. For when the people keep their several places, there will be no poverty; when harmony prevails, there will be no scarcity of people; and when there is such a contented repose, there will be no rebellious upsettings. 11. 'So it is.— Therefore, if remoter people are not submissive, all
CHAP. I. 1. The head of the Chi family was planning to attack Chwan-yu. 2. Zan Yu and Chi-lu met with Confucius and said, "Our leader, Chi, is going to start operations against Chwan-yu." 3. Confucius replied, "Ch'iu, aren't you the one at fault here? 4. "Now, regarding Chwan-yu, a former king long ago appointed its ruler to oversee the sacrifices to the eastern Mang; also, it lies within our State's territory, and its ruler is a minister directly connected to the sovereign—what right does your leader have to attack it?" 5. Zan Yu said, "Our master wants this; neither of us as ministers desires it." 6. Confucius said, "Ch'iu, there's a saying from Chau Zan: 'When someone can contribute, they step into a role of responsibility; when they find themselves unable, they withdraw. How can one guide a blind person if they won't support them when they're unsteady or lift them up when they fall?' 7. 'Moreover, you are mistaken. When a tiger or rhinoceros escapes from its cage or when a tortoise or piece of jade gets damaged in its storage—whose fault is that?' 8. Zan Yu replied, "But right now, Chwan-yu is strong and close to Pi; if our leader doesn't act now, it will later be a regret for his descendants." 9. Confucius said, "Ch'iu, the noble person dislikes not being straightforward, saying, 'I want this and that' and instead making excuses for their actions. 10. "I've heard that leaders of states and chiefs of families aren't worried about having too few people, but about ensuring that their people remain in their proper roles; they're not anxious about poverty, but about a lack of peace and contentment among the people in their respective roles. Because when people stay in their assigned roles, there won't be poverty; when harmony exists, there won't be a shortage of people; and when there is such peace and contentment, there won't be uprisings. 11. 'That's how it is—therefore, if distant people aren't compliant, all..."
the influences of civil culture and virtue are to be cultivated to attract them to be so; and when they have been so attracted, they must be made contented and tranquil. 12. 'Now, here are you, Yu and Ch'iu, assisting your chief. Remoter people are not submissive, and, with your help, he cannot attract them to him. In his own territory there are divisions and downfalls, leavings and separations, and, with your help, he cannot preserve it. 13. 'And yet he is planning these hostile movements within the State.— I am afraid that the sorrow of the Chi-sun family will not be on account of Chwan-yu, but will be found within the screen of their own court.'
The influences of civil culture and virtue need to be nurtured to draw people in, and once they are drawn in, they should be made content and at peace. 12. 'Now, you two, Yu and Ch'iu, are helping your leader. Distant people are not compliant, and without your support, he can't win them over. In his own area, there are splits and collapses, departures and separations, and without your help, he can't maintain it. 13. 'Yet he is planning these aggressive actions within the State.— I worry that the grief of the Chi-sun family won't stem from Chwan-yu but will actually emerge from behind their own court's walls.'
CHAP. II. 1. Confucius said, 'When good government prevails in the empire, ceremonies, music, and punitive military expeditions proceed from the son of Heaven. When bad government prevails in the empire, ceremonies, music, and punitive military expeditions proceed from the princes. When these things proceed from the princes, as a rule, the cases will be few in which they do not lose their power in ten generations. When they proceed from the Great officers of the princes, as a rule, the cases will be few in which they do not lose their power in five generations. When the subsidiary ministers of the great officers hold in their grasp the orders of the state, as a rule, the cases will be few in which they do not lose their power in three generations. 2. 'When right principles prevail in the kingdom, government will not be in the hands of the Great officers. 3. 'When right principles prevail in the kingdom, there will be no discussions among the common people.'
CHAP. II. 1. Confucius said, 'When good governance exists in the empire, ceremonies, music, and military actions come from the Son of Heaven. When bad governance exists in the empire, ceremonies, music, and military actions come from the princes. Generally, when these things come from the princes, there are few cases where they don't lose their power in ten generations. When they come from the great officers of the princes, there are few cases where they don't lose their power in five generations. When the lower ministers of the great officers control the state orders, there are few cases where they don't lose their power in three generations. 2. 'When just principles prevail in the kingdom, the great officers won't be in charge of the government. 3. 'When just principles prevail in the kingdom, there won't be any debates among the common people.'
CHAP. III. Confucius said, 'The revenue of the state has left the ducal House now for five generations. The government has been in the hands of the Great officers for four generations. On this account, the descendants of the three Hwan are much reduced.' CHAP. IV. Confucius said, 'There are three friendships which are advantageous, and three which are injurious. Friendship with the upright; friendship with the sincere; and friendship with the man of much observation:— these are advantageous. Friendship with the man of specious airs; friendship with the insinuatingly soft; and friendship with the glib-tongued:— these are injurious.' CHAP. V. Confucius said, 'There are three things men find enjoyment in which are advantageous, and three things they find enjoyment in which are injurious. To find enjoyment in the discriminating study of ceremonies and music; to find enjoyment in
CHAP. III. Confucius said, 'The state’s income has been away from the ducal house for five generations. The government has been under the control of the high officials for four generations. Because of this, the descendants of the three Hwan have significantly declined.' CHAP. IV. Confucius said, 'There are three types of friendships that are beneficial, and three that are harmful. Friendships with the honest, friendships with the genuine, and friendships with the observant—these are beneficial. Friendships with the insincere, friendships with the deceptively sweet, and friendships with the smooth talkers—these are harmful.' CHAP. V. Confucius said, 'There are three things that people enjoy which are beneficial, and three things that they enjoy which are harmful. To find enjoyment in the thoughtful study of rituals and music; to find enjoyment in
speaking of the goodness of others; to find enjoyment in having many worthy friends:— these are advantageous. To find enjoyment in extravagant pleasures; to find enjoyment in idleness and sauntering; to find enjoyment in the pleasures of feasting:— these are injurious.' CHAP. VI. Confucius said, 'There are three errors to which they who stand in the presence of a man of virtue and station are liable. They may speak when it does not come to them to speak;— this is called rashness. They may not speak when it comes to them to speak;— this is called concealment. They may speak without looking at the countenance of their superior;— this is called blindness.' CHAP. VII. Confucius said, 'There are three things which the superior man guards against. In youth, when the physical powers
Talking about the goodness of others and finding joy in having many worthy friends are beneficial. However, finding joy in excessive pleasures, idleness, or indulging in feasting is harmful. CHAP. VI. Confucius said, 'There are three mistakes that people can make when they're in the presence of a virtuous and respected person. They might speak when it’s not their turn, which is called rashness. They might stay silent when they should speak, which is called concealment. They might speak without paying attention to the expression of their superior, which is called blindness.' CHAP. VII. Confucius said, 'There are three things that a superior person is cautious about. In their youth, when their physical abilities...
are not yet settled, he guards against lust. When he is strong and the physical powers are full of vigor, he guards against quarrelsomeness. When he is old, and the animal powers are decayed, he guards against covetousness.' CHAP. VIII. 1. Confucius said, 'There are three things of which the superior man stands in awe. He stands in awe of the ordinances of Heaven. He stands in awe of great men. He stands in awe of the words of sages. 2. 'The mean man does not know the ordinances of Heaven, and consequently does not stand in awe of them. He is disrespectful to great men. He makes sport of the words of sages.' CHAP. IX. Confucius said, 'Those who are born with the possession of knowledge are the highest class of men. Those who learn, and so, readily, get possession of knowledge, are the next.
are not yet settled, he protects himself from lust. When he's strong and full of energy, he protects himself from arguments. When he's old, and his physical strength has faded, he protects himself from greed. CHAP. VIII. 1. Confucius said, 'There are three things that a superior man respects. He respects the laws of Heaven. He respects great leaders. He respects the words of wise people. 2. 'The average person doesn't understand the laws of Heaven and therefore doesn't respect them. He disrespects great leaders. He mocks the words of wise people.' CHAP. IX. Confucius said, 'Those who are born with knowledge are the highest class of people. Those who learn and easily acquire knowledge are the next.'
Those who are dull and stupid, and yet compass the learning, are another class next to these. As to those who are dull and stupid and yet do not learn;— they are the lowest of the people.' CHAP. X. Confucius said, 'The superior man has nine things which are subjects with him of thoughtful consideration. In regard to the use of his eyes, he is anxious to see clearly. In regard to the use of his ears, he is anxious to hear distinctly. In regard to his countenance, he is anxious that it should be benign. In regard to his demeanor, he is anxious that it should be respectful. In regard to his speech, he is anxious that it should be sincere. In regard to his doing of business, he is anxious that it should be reverently careful. In regard to what he doubts about, he is anxious to question others. When he is angry, he thinks of the difficulties (his anger may involve him in). When he sees gain to be got, he thinks of righteousness.' CHAP. XI. 1. Confucius said, 'Contemplating good, and pursuing it, as if they could not reach it; contemplating evil, and shrinking from it, as they would from thrusting the hand into boiling water:— I have seen such men, as I have heard such words. 2. 'Living in retirement to study their aims, and practising
Those who are dull and uninformed, yet manage to learn, are another category next to these. As for those who are dull and uninformed and don’t learn;— they are the lowest of the people. CHAP. X. Confucius said, 'A superior person has nine things he carefully considers. When it comes to his eyesight, he wants to see clearly. When it comes to his hearing, he wants to hear distinctly. Regarding his expression, he aims for it to be friendly. Regarding his behavior, he strives to be respectful. Regarding his speech, he aims for it to be honest. Regarding his work, he is careful and reverent. When he has doubts, he seeks to ask others. When he gets angry, he thinks about the challenges his anger may cause. When he sees an opportunity for gain, he considers righteousness.' CHAP. XI. 1. Confucius said, 'Reflecting on good, and striving for it as if they could never achieve it; reflecting on evil, and avoiding it as if it were boiling water:— I have seen such people, as I have heard such words. 2. 'Living in seclusion to understand their goals, and practicing
righteousness to carry out their principles:— I have heard these words, but I have not seen such men.' CHAP. XII. 1. The duke Ching of Ch'i had a thousand teams, each of four horses, but on the day of his death, the people did not praise him for a single virtue. Po-i and Shu-ch'i died of hunger at the foot of the Shau-yang mountain, and the people, down to the present time, praise them. 2. 'Is not that saying illustrated by this?'
righteousness to uphold their values:— I’ve heard these words, but I haven’t seen such men.' CHAP. XII. 1. Duke Ching of Ch'i had a thousand teams, each with four horses, but on the day he died, the people didn’t praise him for a single good quality. Po-i and Shu-ch'i died of hunger at the base of Shau-yang Mountain, and even now, people praise them. 2. 'Doesn’t that saying show this?'
CHAP. XIII. 1. Ch'an K'ang asked Po-yu, saying, 'Have you heard any lessons from your father different from what we have all heard?' 2. Po-yu replied, 'No. He was standing alone once, when I passed below the hall with hasty steps, and said to me, "Have you learned the Odes?" On my replying "Not yet," he added, "If you do not learn the Odes, you will not be fit to converse with." I retired and studied the Odes.
CHAP. XIII. 1. Ch'an K'ang asked Po-yu, "Have you heard any teachings from your father that are different from what we all know?" 2. Po-yu responded, "No. One time he was standing alone when I hurried past the hall, and he asked me, 'Have you learned the Odes?' When I said, 'Not yet,' he replied, 'If you don't learn the Odes, you won't be able to hold a conversation.' So, I went back and studied the Odes."
3. 'Another day, he was in the same way standing alone, when I passed by below the hall with hasty steps, and said to me, 'Have you learned the rules of Propriety?' On my replying 'Not yet,' he added, 'If you do not learn the rules of Propriety, your character cannot be established.' I then retired, and learned the rules of Propriety. 4. 'I have heard only these two things from him.' 5. Ch'ang K'ang retired, and, quite delighted, said, 'I asked one thing, and I have got three things. I have heard about the Odes. I have heard about the rules of Propriety. I have also heard that the superior man maintains a distant reserve towards his son.' CHAP. XIV. The wife of the prince of a state is called by him FU ZAN. She calls herself HSIAO T'UNG. The people of the State call
3. 'One day, he was standing alone in the same way when I hurried by under the hall and he asked me, 'Have you learned the rules of Propriety?' When I replied 'Not yet,' he said, 'If you don’t learn the rules of Propriety, your character can't be established.' I then went away and learned the rules of Propriety. 4. 'I've only heard these two things from him.' 5. Ch'ang K'ang went away, quite pleased, and said, 'I asked one question, and I got three answers. I learned about the Odes. I learned about the rules of Propriety. I also learned that a superior man keeps a respectful distance from his son.' CHAP. XIV. The wife of a prince in a state is called by him FU ZAN. She calls herself HSIAO T'UNG. The people of the State call
her CHUN FU ZAN, and, to the people of other States, they call her K'WA HSIAO CHUN. The people of other states also call her CHUN FU ZAN.
her CHUN FU ZAN, and to people from other States, they call her K'WA HSIAO CHUN. People from other states also refer to her as CHUN FU ZAN.
BOOK XVII. YANG HO.
CHAP. I. 1. Yang Ho wished to see Confucius, but Confucius would not go to see him. On this, he sent a present of a pig to Confucius, who, having chosen a time when Ho was not at home, went to pay his respects for the gift. He met him, however, on the way. 2. Ho said to Confucius, 'Come, let me speak with you.' He then asked, 'Can he be called benevolent who keeps his jewel in his
CHAP. I. 1. Yang Ho wanted to meet Confucius, but Confucius refused to go see him. So, he sent a pig as a gift to Confucius, who chose a time when Ho wasn't home to express his gratitude. However, he ran into Ho on the way. 2. Ho said to Confucius, 'Come, I want to talk to you.' He then asked, 'Can someone who keeps their jewel in their
bosom, and leaves his country to confusion?' Confucius replied, 'No.' 'Can he be called wise, who is anxious to be engaged in public employment, and yet is constantly losing the opportunity of being so?' Confucius again said, 'No.' 'The days and months are passing away; the years do not wait for us.' Confucius said, 'Right; I will go into office.' CHAP. II. The Master said, 'By nature, men are nearly alike; by practice, they get to be wide apart.' CHAP. III. The Master said, 'There are only the wise of the highest class, and the stupid of the lowest class, who cannot be changed.'
"Is someone foolish if he sits idle with his heart filled with ambition, leaving his country in chaos?" Confucius replied, "No." "Can someone be considered wise if he eagerly seeks public service yet keeps missing out on opportunities?" Confucius again said, "No." "The days and months keep passing; the years won't wait for us." Confucius said, "That's true; I will take office." CHAP. II. The Master said, "By nature, people are mostly the same; through experience, they become very different." CHAP. III. The Master said, "Only the wisest and the most foolish cannot be changed."
CHAP. IV. 1. The Master, having come to Wu-ch'ang, heard there the sound of stringed instruments and singing. 2. Well pleased and smiling, he said, 'Why use an ox knife to kill a fowl?' 3. Tsze-yu replied, 'Formerly, Master, I heard you say,— "When the man of high station is well instructed, he loves men; when the man of low station is well instructed, he is easily ruled."' 4. The Master said, 'My disciples, Yen's words are right. What I said was only in sport.' CHAP. V. Kung-shan Fu-zao, when he was holding Pi, and in an attitude of rebellion, invited the Master to visit him, who was rather inclined to go. 2. Tsze-lu was displeased, and said, 'Indeed, you cannot go! Why must you think of going to see Kung-shan?'
CHAP. IV. 1. The Master arrived in Wu-ch'ang and heard the sounds of stringed instruments and singing. 2. Feeling pleased and smiling, he said, 'Why use an ox knife to kill a chicken?' 3. Tsze-yu replied, 'Master, I remember you once said,— "When a person of high status is well taught, he cares for others; when a person of low status is well taught, he is easy to manage."' 4. The Master said, 'My students, Yen’s words are correct. What I said was just a joke.' CHAP. V. Kung-shan Fu-zao, while he was in a rebellious state at Pi, invited the Master to visit him, and the Master was somewhat inclined to go. 2. Tsze-lu was unhappy about this and said, 'You absolutely cannot go! Why would you even consider visiting Kung-shan?'
3. The Master said, 'Can it be without some reason that he has invited ME? If any one employ me, may I not make an eastern Chau?' CHAP. VI. Tsze-chang asked Confucius about perfect virtue. Confucius said, 'To be able to practise five things everywhere under heaven constitutes perfect virtue.' He begged to ask what they were, and was told, 'Gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness. If you are grave, you will not be treated with disrespect. If you are generous, you will win all. If you are sincere, people will repose trust in you. If you are earnest, you will accomplish much. If you are kind, this will enable you to employ the services of others.
3. The Master said, "Is there a reason he invited ME? If someone hires me, can't I just make an eastern Chau?" CHAP. VI. Tsze-chang asked Confucius about perfect virtue. Confucius replied, "Being able to practice five things everywhere in the world defines perfect virtue." He asked what they were, and was told, "Gravity, generosity, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness. If you are serious, you won’t be disrespected. If you are generous, you’ll gain everyone's respect. If you are sincere, people will trust you. If you are earnest, you will achieve a lot. If you are kind, that will help you work with others."
CHAP. VII. 1. Pi Hsi inviting him to visit him, the Master was inclined to go. 2. Tsze-lu said, 'Master, formerly I have heard you say, "When a man in his own person is guilty of doing evil, a superior man will not associate with him." Pi Hsi is in rebellion, holding possession of Chung-mau; if you go to him, what shall be said?' 3. The Master said, 'Yes, I did use these words. But is it not said, that, if a thing be really hard, it may be ground without being made thin? Is it not said, that, if a thing be really white, it may be steeped in a dark fluid without being made black? 4. 'Am I a bitter gourd! How can I be hung up out of the way of being eaten?'
CHAP. VII. 1. Pi Hsi invited the Master to visit him, and the Master was considering it. 2. Tsze-lu said, "Master, I remember you saying before, 'When a person is guilty of wrongdoing, a superior person won’t associate with them.' Pi Hsi is in rebellion, taking control of Chung-mau; if you go to see him, what will people say?" 3. The Master replied, "Yes, I did say that. But isn’t it true that if something is really tough, it can be ground down without becoming thin? Isn’t it also true that if something is truly white, it can be soaked in something dark without turning black? 4. 'Am I a bitter gourd! How can I be hung up so that I won't be eaten?'"
CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'Yu, have you heard the six words to which are attached six becloudings?' Yu replied, 'I have not.' 2. 'Sit down, and I will tell them to you. 3. 'There is the love of being benevolent without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to a foolish simplicity. There is the love of knowing without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to dissipation of mind. There is the love of being sincere without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to an injurious disregard of consequences. There is the love of straightforwardness without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to rudeness. There is the love of boldness without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to insubordination. There is the love of firmness without the love of learning;— the beclouding here leads to extravagant conduct.'
CHAP. VIII. 1. The Master said, 'Yu, have you heard about the six phrases that come with six forms of confusion?' Yu replied, 'I have not.' 2. 'Sit down, and I will explain them to you. 3. 'There’s the desire to be kind without the desire to learn;— this confusion results in foolish simplicity. There’s the desire to know without the desire to learn;— this confusion leads to a scattered mind. There’s the desire to be sincere without the desire to learn;— this confusion causes a harmful disregard for consequences. There’s the desire to be straightforward without the desire to learn;— this confusion results in rudeness. There’s the desire to be bold without the desire to learn;— this confusion leads to rebellion. There’s the desire to be steadfast without the desire to learn;— this confusion results in reckless behavior.'
CHAP. IX. 1. The Master said, 'My children, why do you not
study the Book of Poetry?
2. 'The Odes serve to stimulate the mind.
3. 'They may be used for purposes of self-contemplation.
4. 'They teach the art of sociability.
5. 'They show how to regulate feelings of resentment.
6. 'From them you learn the more immediate duty of serving
one's father, and the remoter one of serving one's prince.
7. 'From them we become largely acquainted with the names
of birds, beasts, and plants.'
CHAP. X. The Master said to Po-yu, 'Do you give yourself to
the Chau-nan and the Shao-nan. The man who has not studied the
Chau-nan and the Shao-nan, is like one who stands with his face
right against a wall. Is he not so?'
CHAP. IX. 1. The Master said, 'My children, why don’t you
study the Book of Poetry?
2. 'The Odes help to inspire the mind.
3. 'They can be used for self-reflection.
4. 'They teach the skill of being social.
5. 'They show how to manage feelings of anger.
6. 'From them, you learn the immediate duty of serving
your father, and the broader one of serving your prince.
7. 'From them, we become familiar with the names
of birds, animals, and plants.'
CHAP. X. The Master said to Po-yu, 'Focus on the
Chau-nan and the Shao-nan. A person who hasn’t studied the
Chau-nan and the Shao-nan is like someone who stands with their face
pressed against a wall. Isn’t that right?'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, '"It is according to the rules of propriety," they say.— "It is according to the rules of propriety," they say. Are gems and silk all that is meant by propriety? "It is music," they say.— "It is music," they say. Are bells and drums all that is meant by music?' CHAP. XII. The Master said, 'He who puts on an appearance of stern firmness, while inwardly he is weak, is like one of the small, mean people;— yea, is he not like the thief who breaks through, or climbs over, a wall?' CHAP. XIII. The Master said, 'Your good, careful people of the villages are the thieves of virtue.' CHAP. XIV. The Master said, 'To tell, as we go along, what we have heard on the way, is to cast away our virtue.'
CHAP. XI. The Master said, "It's all about following the rules of propriety," they say. "It's all about following the rules of propriety," they say. Is that all propriety means—gems and silk? "It's about music," they say. "It's about music," they say. Are bells and drums all there is to music? CHAP. XII. The Master said, "Someone who acts tough on the outside but is weak inside is just like those small-minded people; yes, aren't they like the thief who sneaks through or climbs over a wall?" CHAP. XIII. The Master said, "The good, careful people in the villages are the real thieves of virtue." CHAP. XIV. The Master said, "To share what we've heard as we travel is to throw away our virtue."
CHAP. XV. 1. The Master said, 'There are those mean creatures! How impossible it is along with them to serve one's prince! 2. 'While they have not got their aims, their anxiety is how to get them. When they have got them, their anxiety is lest they should lose them. 3. 'When they are anxious lest such things should be lost, there is nothing to which they will not proceed.' CHAP. XVI. 1. The Master said, 'Anciently, men had three failings, which now perhaps are not to be found. 2. 'The high-mindedness of antiquity showed itself in a disregard of small things; the high-mindedness of the present day shows itself in wild license. The stern dignity of antiquity showed itself in grave reserve; the stern dignity of the present day shows itself in quarrelsome perverseness. The stupidity of antiquity showed itself in straightforwardness; the stupidity of the present day shows itself in sheer deceit.'
CHAP. XV. 1. The Master said, 'Look at those petty people! How impossible it is to serve your ruler when you're with them! 2. 'When they haven't achieved their goals, they worry about how to get them. Once they have them, they worry about losing them. 3. 'When they're anxious about losing what they have, they'll stop at nothing to keep it.' CHAP. XVI. 1. The Master said, 'In ancient times, people had three faults that probably don't exist now. 2. 'The nobility of the past showed itself in ignoring petty matters; today's nobility shows itself in reckless behavior. The serious dignity of the past was reflected in composed restraint; today's serious dignity is displayed in argumentative stubbornness. The ignorance of the past was marked by honesty; today's ignorance is characterized by blatant deceit.'
CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with virtue.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'I hate the manner in which purple takes away the luster of vermilion. I hate the way in which the songs of Chang confound the music of the Ya. I hate those who with their sharp mouths overthrow kingdoms and families.' CHAP. XIX. 1. The Master said, 'I would prefer not speaking.' 2. Tsze-kung said, 'If you, Master, do not speak, what shall we, your disciples, have to record?' 3. The Master said, 'Does Heaven speak? The four seasons pursue their courses, and all things are continually being produced, but does Heaven say anything?'
CHAP. XVII. The Master said, 'Flattering words and a charming appearance rarely go hand in hand with true goodness.' CHAP. XVIII. The Master said, 'I dislike how purple dulls the brightness of vermilion. I dislike how the songs of Chang drown out the music of the Ya. I dislike those who, with their sharp tongues, bring down nations and families.' CHAP. XIX. 1. The Master said, 'I'd rather stay silent.' 2. Tsze-kung said, 'If you, Master, remain silent, what will we, your students, have to write down?' 3. The Master said, 'Does Heaven speak? The four seasons follow their cycles, and everything keeps being created, but does Heaven say anything?'
CHAP. XX. Zu Pei wished to see Confucius, but Confucius declined, on the ground of being sick, to see him. When the bearer of this message went out at the door, (the Master) took his lute and sang to it, in order that Pei might hear him. CHAP. XXI. 1. Tsai Wo asked about the three years' mourning for parents, saying that one year was long enough. 2. 'If the superior man,' said he, 'abstains for three years from the observances of propriety, those observances will be quite lost. If for three years he abstains from music, music will be ruined. 3. 'Within a year the old grain is exhausted, and the new grain has sprung up, and, in procuring fire by friction, we go through all the changes of wood for that purpose. After a complete year, the mourning may stop.' 4. The Master said, 'If you were, after a year, to eat good rice, and wear embroidered clothes, would you feel at ease?' 'I should,' replied Wo.
CHAP. XX. Zu Pei wanted to see Confucius, but Confucius declined, saying he was sick. When the messenger left, the Master picked up his lute and played a song for Pei to hear. CHAP. XXI. 1. Tsai Wo asked about the three years of mourning for parents, saying that one year was long enough. 2. "If a superior man," he said, "stops the practices of propriety for three years, those practices will be completely forgotten. If he avoids music for three years, music will suffer. 3. "Within a year, the old grain runs out, and the new grain comes up. When creating fire by friction, we go through all the changes of wood. After a full year, the mourning can end." 4. The Master said, "If, after a year, you were to eat good rice and wear embroidered clothes, would you feel comfortable?" "I would," Wo replied.
5. The Master said, 'If you can feel at ease, do it. But a superior man, during the whole period of mourning, does not enjoy pleasant food which he may eat, nor derive pleasure from music which he may hear. He also does not feel at ease, if he is comfortably lodged. Therefore he does not do what you propose. But now you feel at ease and may do it.' 6. Tsai Wo then went out, and the Master said, 'This shows Yu's want of virtue. It is not till a child is three years old that it is allowed to leave the arms of its parents. And the three years' mourning is universally observed throughout the empire. Did Yu enjoy the three years' love of his parents?'
5. The Master said, 'If you feel comfortable, go ahead. But a noble person, during the entire mourning period, doesn’t enjoy delicious food or find joy in music. They also don’t feel at ease, even if they have a nice place to stay. That’s why he won’t do what you're suggesting. But now you feel comfortable and can do it.' 6. Tsai Wo then left, and the Master said, 'This shows that Yu lacks virtue. A child isn’t allowed to leave its parents' arms until they’re three years old. The three-year mourning period is observed all across the country. Did Yu really experience the love of his parents for those three years?'
CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'Hard is it to deal with him, who will stuff himself with food the whole day, without applying his mind to anything good! Are there not gamesters and chess players? To be one of these would still be better than doing nothing at all.' CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-lu said, 'Does the superior man esteem valour?' The Master said, 'The superior man holds righteousness to be of highest importance. A man in a superior situation, having valour without righteousness, will be guilty of insubordination; one of the lower people having valour without righteousness, will commit robbery.' CHAP. XXIV. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Has the superior man his hatreds also?' The Master said, 'He has his hatreds. He hates those who proclaim the evil of others. He hates the man who,
CHAP. XXII. The Master said, 'It's tough to deal with someone who just stuffs themselves with food all day without thinking about anything worthwhile! Are there not gamblers and chess players? Being one of them would still be better than doing nothing at all.' CHAP. XXIII. Tsze-lu said, 'Does the noble person value courage?' The Master said, 'The noble person considers righteousness to be of the utmost importance. A person in a higher position who has courage but lacks righteousness will act rebelliously; someone of lower status who has courage without righteousness will commit theft.' CHAP. XXIV. 1. Tsze-kung said, 'Does the noble person have any hatreds?' The Master said, 'He has his hatreds. He hates those who talk badly about others. He hates the person who,
being in a low station, slanders his superiors. He hates those who have valour merely, and are unobservant of propriety. He hates those who are forward and determined, and, at the same time, of contracted understanding.' 2. The Master then inquired, 'Ts'ze, have you also your hatreds?' Tsze-kung replied, 'I hate those who pry out matters, and ascribe the knowledge to their wisdom. I hate those who are only not modest, and think that they are valourous. I hate those who make known secrets, and think that they are straightforward.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Of all people, girls and servants are the most difficult to behave to. If you are familiar with them, they lose their humility. If you maintain a reserve towards them, they are discontented.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'When a man at forty is the object of dislike, he will always continue what he is.'
being in a low position, bad-mouths his superiors. He despises those who are just brave but disregard proper behavior. He can't stand those who are pushy and determined, yet have a limited mindset. 2. The Master then asked, 'Ts'ze, do you have your own dislikes?' Tsze-kung replied, 'I dislike those who dig into things and claim the knowledge as their own cleverness. I dislike those who lack modesty and believe they are brave. I dislike those who reveal secrets and think they are being honest.' CHAP. XXV. The Master said, 'Of all people, girls and servants are the hardest to deal with. If you get too close, they lose their humility. If you keep your distance, they become unhappy.' CHAP. XXVI. The Master said, 'When a man at forty is disliked, he will likely remain that way.'
BOOK XVIII. WEI TSZE.
CHAP. I. 1. The Viscount of Wei withdrew from the court. The Viscount of Chi became a slave to Chau. Pi-kan remonstrated with him and died. 2. Confucius said, 'The Yin dynasty possessed these three men of virtue.' CHAP. II. Hui of Liu-hsia being chief criminal judge, was thrice dismissed from his office. Some one said to him, 'Is it not yet time for you, sir, to leave this?' He replied, 'Serving men in an upright way, where shall I go to, and not experience such a thrice- repeated
CHAP. I. 1. The Viscount of Wei stepped back from the court. The Viscount of Chi became a servant to Chau. Pi-kan protested against this and died. 2. Confucius said, 'The Yin dynasty had these three virtuous men.' CHAP. II. Hui of Liu-hsia, who was the chief criminal judge, was dismissed from his position three times. Someone asked him, 'Isn’t it time for you to leave, sir?' He replied, 'If I serve people with integrity, where can I go and not face such repeated dismissals?'
dismissal? If I choose to serve men in a crooked way, what necessity is there for me to leave the country of my parents?' CHAP. III. The duke Ching of Ch'i, with reference to the manner in which he should treat Confucius, said, 'I cannot treat him as I would the chief of the Chi family. I will treat him in a manner between that accorded to the chief of the Chi, and that given to the chief of the Mang family.' He also said, 'I am old; I cannot use his doctrines.' Confucius took his departure. CHAP. IV. The people of Ch'i sent to Lu a present of female musicians, which Chi Hwan received, and for three days no court was held. Confucius took his departure. CHAP. V. 1. The madman of Ch'u, Chieh-yu, passed by Confucius, singing and saying, 'O FANG! O FANG! How is your
dismissal? If I choose to serve people in a dishonest way, why should I leave my homeland?' CHAP. III. Duke Ching of Ch'i, regarding how to treat Confucius, said, 'I can't treat him like I would the head of the Chi family. I’ll treat him in a way that's somewhere between how I treat the head of the Chi and the head of the Mang family.' He also mentioned, 'I’m old; I can’t follow his teachings.' Confucius then left. CHAP. IV. The people of Ch'i sent Lu a gift of female musicians, which Chi Hwan accepted, and for three days, there was no court session. Confucius then left. CHAP. V. 1. The madman of Ch'u, Chieh-yu, passed by Confucius, singing and saying, 'O FANG! O FANG! How is your
virtue degenerated! As to the past, reproof is useless; but the future may still be provided against. Give up your vain pursuit. Give up your vain pursuit. Peril awaits those who now engage in affairs of government.' 2. Confucius alighted and wished to converse with him, but Chieh-yu hastened away, so that he could not talk with him. CHAP. VI. 1. Ch'ang-tsu and Chieh-ni were at work in the field together, when Confucius passed by them, and sent Tsze-lu to inquire for the ford. 2. Ch'ang-tsu said, 'Who is he that holds the reins in the carriage there?' Tsze-lu told him, 'It is K'ung Ch'iu.' 'Is it not K'ung Ch'iu of Lu?' asked he. 'Yes,' was the reply, to which the other rejoined, 'He knows the ford.' 3. Tsze-lu then inquired of Chieh-ni, who said to him, 'Who
virtue has declined! Regarding the past, criticism is pointless; however, we can still prepare for the future. Let go of your pointless pursuits. Let go of your pointless pursuits. Danger lies ahead for those who are currently involved in government affairs.' 2. Confucius got off and wanted to talk to him, but Chieh-yu hurried away, so they couldn’t have a conversation. CHAP. VI. 1. Ch'ang-tsu and Chieh-ni were working in the field together when Confucius passed by and sent Tsze-lu to ask about the ford. 2. Ch'ang-tsu asked, 'Who is the one driving the carriage over there?' Tsze-lu told him, 'It’s K'ung Ch'iu.' 'Isn’t that K'ung Ch'iu from Lu?' he asked. 'Yes,' Tsze-lu replied, to which Ch'ang-tsu said, 'He knows the ford.' 3. Tsze-lu then asked Chieh-ni, who said to him, 'Who
are you, sir?' He answered, 'I am Chung Yu.' 'Are you not the disciple of K'ung Ch'iu of Lu?' asked the other. 'I am,' replied he, and then Chieh-ni said to him, 'Disorder, like a swelling flood, spreads over the whole empire, and who is he that will change its state for you? Than follow one who merely withdraws from this one and that one, had you not better follow those who have withdrawn from the world altogether?' With this he fell to covering up the seed, and proceeded with his work, without stopping. 4. Tsze-lu went and reported their remarks, when the Master observed with a sigh, 'It is impossible to associate with birds and beasts, as if they were the same with us. If I associate not with these people,— with mankind,— with whom shall I associate? If right principles prevailed through the empire, there would be no use for me to change its state.'
"Who are you, sir?" He replied, "I am Chung Yu." "Aren't you the disciple of K'ung Ch'iu from Lu?" asked the other. "I am," he said, and then Chieh-ni told him, "Chaos, like a rising tide, spreads across the entire empire. Who can change its condition for you? Instead of following someone who merely distances themselves from this or that issue, wouldn't it be better to follow those who have completely withdrawn from the world?" With that, he started covering the seed and continued his work without pause. 4. Tsze-lu went and shared their comments, and the Master sighed, saying, "It's impossible to associate with birds and beasts as if they're the same as us. If I don't associate with these people— with mankind— then who should I associate with? If true principles were upheld throughout the empire, I wouldn't need to change its state."
CHAP. VII. 1. Tsze-lu, following the Master, happened to fall behind, when he met an old man, carrying across his shoulder on a staff a basket for weeds. Tsze-lu said to him, 'Have you seen my master, sir!' The old man replied, 'Your four limbs are unaccustomed to toil; you cannot distinguish the five kinds of grain:— who is your master?' With this, he planted his staff in the ground, and proceeded to weed. 2. Tsze-lu joined his hands across his breast, and stood before him. 3. The old man kept Tsze-lu to pass the night in his house, killed a fowl, prepared millet, and feasted him. He also introduced to him his two sons. 4. Next day, Tsze-lu went on his way, and reported his adventure. The Master said, 'He is a recluse,' and sent Tsze-lu back to see him again, but when he got to the place, the old man was gone. 5. Tsze-lu then said to the family, 'Not to take office is not
CHAP. VII. 1. Tsze-lu, following the Master, happened to fall behind when he met an old man carrying a basket for weeds over his shoulder on a staff. Tsze-lu asked him, "Have you seen my master, sir?" The old man answered, "Your arms are not used to hard work; you can't even tell the five types of grain—who is your master?" With that, he planted his staff in the ground and got back to weeding. 2. Tsze-lu clasped his hands across his chest and stood in front of him. 3. The old man invited Tsze-lu to spend the night at his house, killed a chicken, cooked millet, and hosted him. He also introduced his two sons to him. 4. The next day, Tsze-lu continued on his way and shared his experience. The Master said, "He is a recluse," and sent Tsze-lu back to see him again, but when he reached the spot, the old man had disappeared. 5. Tsze-lu then said to the family, "Not taking on an official position is not
righteous. If the relations between old and young may not be neglected, how is it that he sets aside the duties that should be observed between sovereign and minister? Wishing to maintain his personal purity, he allows that great relation to come to confusion. A superior man takes office, and performs the righteous duties belonging to it. As to the failure of right principles to make progress, he is aware of that.' CHAP. VIII. 1. The men who have retired to privacy from the world have been Po-i, Shu-ch'i, Yu-chung, I-yi, Chu-chang, Hui of Liu-hsia, and Shao-lien. 2. The Master said, 'Refusing to surrender their wills, or to submit to any taint in their persons;— such, I think, were Po-i and Shu-ch'i. 3. 'It may be said of Hui of Liu-hsia, and of Shao-lien, that they surrendered their wills, and submitted to taint in their persons,
righteous. If the relationships between the young and the old should not be neglected, how can he ignore the responsibilities that exist between a ruler and his ministers? In his desire to maintain personal integrity, he allows that important relationship to fall apart. A noble person takes office and fulfills the rightful duties that come with it. He understands the reasons why right principles fail to advance. CHAP. VIII. 1. The individuals who have withdrawn from society include Po-i, Shu-ch’i, Yu-chung, I-yi, Chu-chang, Hui of Liu-hsia, and Shao-lien. 2. The Master said, 'They refused to compromise their principles or to accept any impurity in themselves;— that, I believe, describes Po-i and Shu-ch’i. 3. 'It can be said of Hui of Liu-hsia and Shao-lien that they compromised their principles and accepted impurity in themselves,
but their words corresponded with reason, and their actions were such as men are anxious to see. This is all that is to be remarked in them. 4. 'It may be said of Yu-chung and I-yi, that, while they hid themselves in their seclusion, they gave a license to their words; but, in their persons, they succeeded in preserving their purity, and, in their retirement, they acted according to the exigency of the times. 5. 'I am different from all these. I have no course for which I am predetermined, and no course against which I am predetermined.' CHAP. IX. 1. The grand music master, Chih, went to Ch'i. 2. Kan, the master of the band at the second meal, went to Ch'u. Liao, the band master at the third meal, went to Ts'ai. Chueh, the band master at the fourth meal, went to Ch'in. 3. Fang-shu, the drum master, withdrew to the north of the river.
but their words were reasonable, and their actions reflected what people are eager to see. That’s all there is to say about them. 4. 'You could say about Yu-chung and I-yi that, while they kept to themselves, they allowed their words to flow freely; but in their personal lives, they managed to maintain their integrity, and in their seclusion, they acted according to what was needed at the time. 5. 'I am different from all of them. I have no predetermined path, and I have no path I’m against.' CHAP. IX. 1. The great music master, Chih, went to Ch'i. 2. Kan, the leader of the band at the second meal, went to Ch'u. Liao, the band leader at the third meal, went to Ts'ai. Chueh, the band leader at the fourth meal, went to Ch'in. 3. Fang-shu, the drum master, moved north of the river.
4. Wu, the master of the hand drum, withdrew to the Han. 5. Yang, the assistant music master, and Hsiang, master of the musical stone, withdrew to an island in the sea. CHAP. X. The duke of Chau addressed his son, the duke of Lu, saying, 'The virtuous prince does not neglect his relations. He does not cause the great ministers to repine at his not employing them. Without some great cause, he does not dismiss from their offices the members of old families. He does not seek in one man talents for every employment.' CHAP. XI. To Chau belonged the eight officers, Po-ta, Po-
4. Wu, the master of the hand drum, retreated to the Han. 5. Yang, the assistant music master, and Hsiang, the master of the musical stone, withdrew to an island in the sea. CHAP. X. The duke of Chau spoke to his son, the duke of Lu, saying, 'A virtuous prince doesn’t overlook his connections. He doesn’t make the great ministers unhappy by not using their talents. Unless there’s a significant reason, he doesn’t remove members of old families from their positions. He doesn’t expect one person to have all the skills for every job.' CHAP. XI. The eight officers belonged to Chau: Po-ta, Po-
kwo, Chung-tu, Chung-hwu, Shu-ya, Shu-hsia, Chi-sui, and Chi-kwa.
kwo, Chung-tu, Chung-hwu, Shu-ya, Shu-hsia, Chi-sui, and Chi-kwa.
BOOK XIX. TSZE-CHANG.
CHAP. I. Tsze-chang said, 'The scholar, trained for public duty, seeing threatening danger, is prepared to sacrifice his life. When the opportunity of gain is presented to him, he thinks of righteousness. In sacrificing, his thoughts are reverential. In mourning, his thoughts are about the grief which he should feel. Such a man commands our approbation indeed.' CHAP. II. Tsze-chang said, 'When a man holds fast to virtue, but without seeking to enlarge it, and believes right principles, but without firm sincerity, what account can be made of his existence or non-existence?'
CHAP. I. Tsze-chang said, 'A scholar trained for public service, when faced with danger, is ready to risk his life. When he's presented with the chance to gain something, he prioritizes righteousness. In making sacrifices, he is thoughtful and respectful. In mourning, he reflects on the sorrow he should feel. Such a person truly earns our respect.' CHAP. II. Tsze-chang said, 'When a person clings to virtue but doesn’t seek to expand it, and believes in right principles but lacks genuine sincerity, what value is there in his existence or non-existence?'
CHAP. III. The disciples of Tsze-hsia asked Tsze-chang about the principles that should characterize mutual intercourse. Tsze- chang asked, 'What does Tsze-hsia say on the subject?' They replied, 'Tsze-hsia says:— "Associate with those who can advantage you. Put away from you those who cannot do so."' Tsze-chang observed, 'This is different from what I have learned. The superior man honours the talented and virtuous, and bears with all. He praises the good, and pities the incompetent. Am I possessed of great talents and virtue?— who is there among men whom I will not bear with? Am I devoid of talents and virtue?— men will put me away from them. What have we to do with the putting away of others?' CHAP. IV. Tsze-hsia said, 'Even in inferior studies and employments there is something worth being looked at; but if it be
CHAP. III. The followers of Tsze-hsia asked Tsze-chang about the principles that should guide mutual interactions. Tsze-chang replied, "What does Tsze-hsia say about this?" They answered, "Tsze-hsia says: 'Surround yourself with people who can benefit you. Distance yourself from those who cannot.'" Tsze-chang remarked, "This is different from what I've learned. A superior person respects those who are talented and virtuous, and accepts everyone. They praise the good and have compassion for the less capable. Am I truly talented and virtuous?— Is there anyone among people whom I wouldn't accept? Am I lacking in talents and virtue?— People will distance themselves from me. Why should we concern ourselves with pushing others away?" CHAP. IV. Tsze-hsia said, "Even in lesser studies and jobs, there's something to learn; but if it be
attempted to carry them out to what is remote, there is a danger of their proving inapplicable. Therefore, the superior man does not practise them.' CHAP. V. Tsze-hsia said, 'He, who from day to day recognises what he has not yet, and from month to month does not forget what he has attained to, may be said indeed to love to learn.' CHAP. VI. Tsze-hsia said, 'There are learning extensively, and having a firm and sincere aim; inquiring with earnestness, and reflecting with self-application:— virtue is in such a course.' CHAP. VII. Tsze-hsia said, 'Mechanics have their shops to dwell in, in order to accomplish their works. The superior man learns, in order to reach to the utmost of his principles.'
attempted to apply them to what is distant, there is a risk of them becoming irrelevant. Therefore, the wise person does not practice them. CHAP. V. Tsze-hsia said, 'Those who recognize what they lack each day, and who do not forget what they have accomplished each month, can truly be said to love learning.' CHAP. VI. Tsze-hsia said, 'There is value in learning widely, having a clear and sincere purpose, asking questions with enthusiasm, and reflecting with dedication—virtue lies in this approach.' CHAP. VII. Tsze-hsia said, 'Craftspeople have their workshops to perfect their skills. The wise person learns to fully understand their principles.'
CHAP. VIII. Tsze-hsia said, 'The mean man is sure to gloss his faults.' CHAP. IX. Tsze-hsia said, 'The superior man undergoes three changes. Looked at from a distance, he appears stern; when approached, he is mild; when he is heard to speak, his language is firm and decided.' CHAP. X. Tsze-hsia said, 'The superior man, having obtained their confidence, may then impose labours on his people. If he have not gained their confidence, they will think that he is oppressing them. Having obtained the confidence of his prince, one may then remonstrate with him. If he have not gained his confidence, the prince will think that he is vilifying him.' CHAP. XI. Tsze-hsia said, 'When a person does not transgress the boundary line in the great virtues, he may pass and repass it in the small virtues.'
CHAP. VIII. Tsze-hsia said, 'A mean person will definitely downplay their faults.' CHAP. IX. Tsze-hsia said, 'A superior person undergoes three changes. From a distance, they seem strict; when you get closer, they are gentle; and when you hear them speak, their words are strong and assertive.' CHAP. X. Tsze-hsia said, 'Once a superior person has earned the trust of their people, they can then assign tasks to them. If they haven't gained that trust, people will see them as oppressive. Once they have the prince's trust, they can speak out. If they haven't earned that trust, the prince will think they are slandering him.' CHAP. XI. Tsze-hsia said, 'When someone stays within the boundaries of great virtues, they can be flexible with smaller virtues.'
CHAP. XII. 1. Tsze-yu said, 'The disciples and followers of Tsze-hsia, in sprinkling and sweeping the ground, in answering and replying, in advancing and receding, are sufficiently accomplished. But these are only the branches of learning, and they are left ignorant of what is essential.— How can they be acknowledged as sufficiently taught?' 2. Tsze-hsia heard of the remark and said, 'Alas! Yen Yu is wrong. According to the way of the superior man in teaching, what departments are there which he considers of prime importance, and delivers? what are there which he considers of secondary importance, and allows himself to be idle about? But as in the case of plants, which are assorted according to their classes, so he deals with his disciples. How can the way of a superior man be such as to make fools of any of them? Is it not the sage alone, who can unite in one the beginning and the consummation of learning?'
CHAP. XII. 1. Tsze-yu said, 'The students and followers of Tsze-hsia, in attending to tasks like sprinkling and sweeping the ground, in answering and responding, in moving forward and stepping back, are skilled enough. But those are just the surface aspects of learning, and they lack understanding of what truly matters. — How can they be considered adequately educated?' 2. Tsze-hsia heard this comment and said, 'Oh no! Yen Yu is mistaken. According to the principles of a superior teacher, what areas does he prioritize and teach? What areas does he consider less important and neglect? Just like plants are categorized according to their types, he manages his students in the same way. How can the approach of a superior person be such that it leads to foolishness in any of them? Isn’t it only the sage who can integrate both the beginning and the culmination of learning?'
CHAP. XIII. Tsze-hsia said, 'The officer, having discharged all his duties, should devote his leisure to learning. The student, having completed his learning, should apply himself to be an officer.' CHAP. XIV. Tsze-hsia said, 'Mourning, having been carried to the utmost degree of grief, should stop with that.' CHAP. XV. Tsze-hsia said, 'My friend Chang can do things which are hard to be done, but yet he is not perfectly virtuous.' CHAP. XVI. The philosopher Tsang said, 'How imposing is the manner of Chang! It is difficult along with him to practise virtue.' CHAP. XVII. The philosopher Tsang said, 'I heard this from our Master:— "Men may not have shown what is in them to the full extent, and yet they will be found to do so, on occasion of mourning for their parents."'
CHAP. XIII. Tsze-hsia said, 'After finishing all his responsibilities, an officer should spend his free time learning. A student, once he has completed his studies, should focus on becoming an officer.' CHAP. XIV. Tsze-hsia said, 'When mourning reaches the deepest level of sorrow, it should come to an end.' CHAP. XV. Tsze-hsia said, 'My friend Chang can accomplish difficult tasks, but he is not entirely virtuous.' CHAP. XVI. The philosopher Tsang said, 'Chang has such an impressive demeanor! It's challenging to practice virtue alongside him.' CHAP. XVII. The philosopher Tsang said, 'I heard this from our Master:— "People might not fully reveal their true selves, but they will do so when mourning for their parents."'
CHAP. XVIII. The philosopher Tsang said, 'I have heard this from our Master:— "The filial piety of Mang Chwang, in other matters, was what other men are competent to, but, as seen in his not changing the ministers of his father, nor his father's mode of government, it is difficult to be attained to."' CHAP. XIX. The chief of the Mang family having appointed Yang Fu to be chief criminal judge, the latter consulted the philosopher Tsang. Tsang said, 'The rulers have failed in their duties, and the people consequently have been disorganised, for a long time. When you have found out the truth of any accusation, be grieved for and pity them, and do not feel joy at your own ability.' CHAP. XX. Tsze-kung said, 'Chau's wickedness was not so great as that name implies. Therefore, the superior man hates to dwell
CHAP. XVIII. The philosopher Tsang said, "I've heard this from our Master: 'Mang Chwang's filial piety was on par with what other men are capable of, but his commitment to keeping his father's ministers and his father's way of governing is hard to match.'" CHAP. XIX. The head of the Mang family appointed Yang Fu as the chief criminal judge, and he consulted the philosopher Tsang. Tsang said, "The rulers have not done their jobs, and as a result, the people have been disorganized for a long time. When you uncover the truth of any accusation, feel sorrow and compassion for them, and don’t take pride in your own skill." CHAP. XX. Tsze-kung said, "Chau's wrongdoing wasn't as severe as that name suggests. That’s why a superior person dislikes settling into negativity."
in a low-lying situation, where all the evil of the world will flow in upon him.' CHAP. XXI. Tsze-kung said, 'The faults of the superior man are like the eclipses of the sun and moon. He has his faults, and all men see them; he changes again, and all men look up to him.' CHAP. XXII. 1. Kung-sun Ch'ao of Wei asked Tsze-kung, saying, 'From whom did Chung-ni get his learning?' 2. Tsze-kung replied, 'The doctrines of Wan and Wu have not yet fallen to the ground. They are to be found among men. Men of talents and virtue remember the greater principles of them, and others, not possessing such talents and virtue, remember the smaller. Thus, all possess the doctrines of Wan and Wu. Where could our Master go that he should not have an opportunity of learning them? And yet what necessity was there for his having a regular master?'
in a low area, where all the negativity of the world will come crashing down on him. CHAP. XXI. Tsze-kung said, 'The faults of a great person are like the eclipses of the sun and moon. He makes mistakes, and everyone sees them; he improves, and everyone looks up to him.' CHAP. XXII. 1. Kung-sun Ch'ao of Wei asked Tsze-kung, saying, 'From whom did Chung-ni learn his knowledge?' 2. Tsze-kung replied, 'The teachings of Wan and Wu are still relevant. They're found among people. Those with talent and virtue remember the main ideas, while others, lacking such qualities, remember the smaller ones. So, everyone has access to the teachings of Wan and Wu. Where could our Master go that he wouldn't have the chance to learn them? And yet, why did he need a formal teacher?'
CHAP. XXIII. 1. Shu-sun Wu-shu observed to the great officers in the court, saying, 'Tsze-kung is superior to Chung-ni.' 2. Tsze-fu Ching-po reported the observation to Tsze-kung, who said, 'Let me use the comparison of a house and its encompassing wall. My wall only reaches to the shoulders. One may peep over it, and see whatever is valuable in the apartments. 3. 'The wall of my Master is several fathoms high. If one do not find the door and enter by it, he cannot see the ancestral temple with its beauties, nor all the officers in their rich array. 4. 'But I may assume that they are few who find the door. Was not the observation of the chief only what might have been expected?'
CHAP. XXIII. 1. Shu-sun Wu-shu pointed out to the high-ranking officials in the court, saying, 'Tsze-kung is better than Chung-ni.' 2. Tsze-fu Ching-po reported this remark to Tsze-kung, who replied, 'Let me compare it to a house and its surrounding wall. My wall only goes up to the shoulders. People can easily look over it and see what is valuable inside. 3. 'The wall of my Master is several fathoms high. If someone doesn’t find the door and go in through it, they won’t see the ancestral temple with its beauty, nor all the officials in their splendid outfits. 4. 'But I assume that few actually find the door. Wasn't the chief's remark just what we would expect?'
CHAP. XXIV. Shu-sun Wu-shu having spoken revilingly of Chung-ni, Tsze-kung said, 'It is of no use doing so. Chung-ni cannot be reviled. The talents and virtue of other men are hillocks and mounds which may be stepped over. Chung-ni is the sun or moon, which it is not possible to step over. Although a man may wish to cut himself off from the sage, what harm can he do to the sun or moon? He only shows that he does not know his own capacity. CHAP. XXV. 1. Ch'an Tsze-ch'in, addressing Tsze-kung, said, 'You are too modest. How can Chung-ni be said to be superior to you?' 2. Tsze-kung said to him, 'For one word a man is often deemed to be wise, and for one word he is often deemed to be foolish. We ought to be careful indeed in what we say. 3. 'Our Master cannot be attained to, just in the same way as the heavens cannot be gone up to by the steps of a stair.
CHAP. XXIV. Shu-sun Wu-shu spoke disrespectfully about Chung-ni, and Tsze-kung said, "That's pointless. You can't insult Chung-ni. The talents and virtues of other people are like small hills that can be easily walked over. Chung-ni is like the sun or the moon, which cannot be bypassed. Even if someone tries to distance themselves from the sage, they can't harm the sun or the moon. They only reveal their own ignorance. CHAP. XXV. 1. Ch'an Tsze-ch'in, talking to Tsze-kung, said, "You’re being too humble. How can anyone say that Chung-ni is better than you?" 2. Tsze-kung replied, "A person can be seen as wise for one statement and foolish for another. We really need to be careful about what we say. 3. "Our Master is unreachable, just like the heavens can’t be climbed with a staircase."
4. 'Were our Master in the position of the ruler of a State or the chief of a Family, we should find verified the description which has been given of a sage's rule:— he would plant the people, and forthwith they would be established; he would lead them on, and forthwith they would follow him; he would make them happy, and forthwith multitudes would resort to his dominions; he would stimulate them, and forthwith they would be harmonious. While he lived, he would be glorious. When he died, he would be bitterly lamented. How is it possible for him to be attained to?'
4. 'If our Master were in the position of a state leader or the head of a family, we would see the description of a wise ruler come to life: he would guide the people, and they would quickly become established; he would lead them, and they would promptly follow him; he would make them happy, and then many would flock to his domain; he would inspire them, and they would soon live in harmony. While he lived, he would be revered. When he died, he would be deeply mourned. How could such a figure ever be achieved?'
BOOK XX. YAO YUEH.
CHAP. I. 1. Yao said, 'Oh! you, Shun, the Heaven-determined order of succession now rests in your person. Sincerely hold fast the due Mean. If there shall be distress and want within the four seas, the Heavenly revenue will come to a perpetual end.' 2. Shun also used the same language in giving charge to Yu. 3. T'ang said, 'I the child Li, presume to use a dark-coloured victim, and presume to announce to Thee, O most great and sovereign God, that the sinner I dare not pardon, and thy ministers, O God, I do not keep in obscurity. The examination of them is by thy mind, O God. If, in my person, I commit offences, they are not to be attributed to you, the people of the myriad regions. If you in the myriad regions commit offences, these offences must rest on my person.'
CHAP. I. 1. Yao said, 'Oh! You, Shun, the order of succession decided by Heaven now lies with you. Stay true to the proper balance. If there’s hardship and lack throughout the four seas, the blessings from Heaven will come to an end forever.' 2. Shun also used the same words when he entrusted Yu with his duties. 3. T'ang said, 'I, the child Li, humbly bring a dark-colored offering and announce to You, O greatest and sovereign God, that I cannot pardon the sinner, and I do not hide your ministers, O God. Their examination is in your hands, O God. If, through me, I commit offenses, they shouldn’t be blamed on you, the people of the countless regions. If you in those countless regions commit offenses, then those offenses are my responsibility.'
4. Chau conferred great gifts, and the good were enriched. 5. 'Although he has his near relatives, they are not equal to my virtuous men. The people are throwing blame upon me, the One man.' 6. He carefully attended to the weights and measures, examined the body of the laws, restored the discarded officers, and the good government of the kingdom took its course. 7. He revived States that had been extinguished, restored families whose line of succession had been broken, and called to office those who had retired into obscurity, so that throughout the kingdom the hearts of the people turned towards him. 8. What he attached chief importance to, were the food of the people, the duties of mourning, and sacrifices. 9. By his generosity, he won all. By his sincerity, he made the people repose trust in him. By his earnest activity, his achievements were great. By his justice, all were delighted.
4. Chau gave out great gifts, and the good people were rewarded. 5. "Even though he has his close relatives, they’re not as good as my virtuous men. The people are blaming me, the one man." 6. He carefully managed the weights and measures, reviewed the laws, reinstated the dismissed officials, and the kingdom prospered under good governance. 7. He revived states that had been lost, restored families whose line had been broken, and brought back into public service those who had faded into obscurity, so that throughout the kingdom, the people’s hearts turned toward him. 8. He prioritized the welfare of the people, the duties of mourning, and sacrifices. 9. Through his generosity, he gained everyone's admiration. With his sincerity, he earned the people's trust. His hard work led to significant achievements. Because of his fairness, everyone was pleased.
CHAP. II. 1. Tsze-chang asked Confucius, saying, 'In what way should a person in authority act in order that he may conduct government properly?' The Master replied, 'Let him honour the five excellent, and banish away the four bad, things;— then may he conduct government properly.' Tsze-chang said, 'What are meant by the five excellent things?' The Master said, 'When the person in authority is beneficent without great expenditure; when he lays tasks on the people without their repining; when he pursues what he desires without being covetous; when he maintains a dignified ease without being proud; when he is majestic without being fierce.' 2. Tsze-chang said, 'What is meant by being beneficent without great expenditure?' The Master replied, 'When the person in authority makes more beneficial to the people the things from which
CHAP. II. 1. Tsze-chang asked Confucius, saying, 'How should someone in power act to properly run the government?' The Master replied, 'They should respect the five good principles and eliminate the four bad ones; only then can they govern effectively.' Tsze-chang asked, 'What are the five good principles?' The Master said, 'When the person in power is generous without wasting money; when they give tasks to the people without causing complaints; when they chase their desires without being greedy; when they carry themselves with dignity without being arrogant; and when they are commanding without being harsh.' 2. Tsze-chang asked, 'What does it mean to be generous without wasting money?' The Master replied, 'When the person in power makes beneficial for the people the things from which
they naturally derive benefit;— is not this being beneficent without great expenditure? When he chooses the labours which are proper, and makes them labour on them, who will repine? When his desires are set on benevolent government, and he secures it, who will accuse him of covetousness? Whether he has to do with many people or few, or with things great or small, he does not dare to indicate any disrespect;— is not this to maintain a dignified ease without any pride? He adjusts his clothes and cap, and throws a dignity into his looks, so that, thus dignified, he is looked at with awe;— is not this to be majestic without being fierce?' 3. Tsze-chang then asked, 'What are meant by the four bad things?' The Master said, 'To put the people to death without having instructed them;— this is called cruelty. To require from them, suddenly, the full tale of work, without having given them warning;— this is called oppression. To issue orders as if without urgency, at first, and, when the time comes, to insist on them with severity;— this is called injury. And, generally, in the giving pay
they naturally gain benefits; isn’t this being kind without a lot of cost? When he selects the tasks that are suitable and has others work on them, who will complain? When his focus is on caring governance and he achieves it, who will accuse him of greed? Whether he deals with many people or just a few, or handles matters big or small, he doesn’t dare show any disrespect; isn’t this maintaining a dignified calm without being arrogant? He adjusts his clothes and cap and puts a dignified expression on his face, so that, looking this way, he is regarded with respect; isn’t this being impressive without being intimidating? 3. Tsze-chang then asked, 'What are the four bad things?' The Master said, 'Putting people to death without having educated them—this is called cruelty. Demanding the full workload from them suddenly, without prior notice—this is called oppression. Giving orders as if there’s no urgency at first, and then insisting on them harshly when the time comes—this is called injury. And, generally, in the matter of compensation...
or rewards to men, to do it in a stingy way;— this is called acting the part of a mere official.' CHAP III. 1. The Master said, 'Without recognising the ordinances of Heaven, it is impossible to be a superior man. 2. 'Without an acquaintance with the rules of Propriety, it is impossible for the character to be established. 3. 'Without knowing the force of words, it is impossible to know men.'
or rewards to men, doing it in a stingy way;— this is what it means to act like a mere official.' CHAP III. 1. The Master said, 'Without acknowledging the rules of Heaven, it's impossible to be a truly superior person. 2. 'Without understanding the principles of Proper Behavior, it's impossible to establish your character. 3. 'Without knowing the impact of words, it's impossible to understand people.'
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