Selection from the Sacred Confucian Analects – Chapters 1 & 4, Part 2 of 2

World leaders cite Confucius’ well-known sayings, and international scholars are still fascinated by His sophisticated ideas. Confucianism places great importance on personal and government morality, correctness of social relationships, justice, and sincerity.

Chapter 4 Li Ren 里仁 Confucius 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?” “If you fix your mind upon a virtuous life, you will be free from evil.” “Riches and honors are objects of men's desire; but if cannot be obtained in the proper way, I would not have them. Poverty and a low position in life are objects of men's dislike; but if cannot be avoided in the proper way, I would not leave them. A wise man who leaves his virtues is no longer entitled to the name of a wise man. A wise man never for one single moment in his life loses sight of a virtuous life; in moments of haste and hurry, as in moments of danger and peril, he always clings to it. " “Men’s faults are characteristic. By observing a man’s failings you can judge of his virtues.” Confucius said, “When a man has learned wisdom in the morning, he may be content to die at night.” “It is useless to speak to a gentleman who wants to give himself up to serious studies and who yet is ashamed because of his poor food or bad clothes.” “A wise man in his judgment of the world, has no predilections nor prejudices; he is on the side of what is right.”

“A wise manregards the virtuous worth of a man; a fool only his position. A wise man expects justice; a fool only expects favors.” “Be not concerned for want of a position; be concerned how to fit yourself for a position. Be not concerned that you are not known, but seek to do something to deserve a reputation.” “A wise man sees what is right in a question; a fool, what is advantageous to himself.” “When you see a good person, think of becoming like him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.” “Men of old kept silence for fear lest what they said should not come up to what they did.” “The cautious seldom err.” “A wise man wants to be slow in speech and diligent in conduct.” “A person with virtues is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have like-minded people around him.”