Confucius Never Taken A Step Quote

Have you heard of “Confucius Never Taken A Step To Reach That Thousand Miles Journey” ?

What I am trying to say is that the popular quote “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” is NOT by Confucius.

It is by Lao Tzu.

“The journey of a thousand li starts from where one stands.” – Lao Tzu

“千里之行，始於足下” (Mandarin)

(The Tao Te Ching By Lao Tzu, Translated By Wing-tsit Chan, 1963, 64)

(The quote is also found in: The Way Of Lao Tzu (Tao te ching) By Lao Tzu, Translated By Wing-tsit Chan, Ravenio Books, 2015, 64)

(The quote in Mandarin is found .)

Note: li (里) means miles.

So is this popularly-used quote “Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life”, which is also NOT by Confucius.

In fact, this quote is anonymous.

They are definitely NOT from “The Analects of Confucius” (論語).

By the way, there is this similar quotation “Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

(It is found in: Princeton Alumni Weekly, Volume 83, Princeton Alumni weekly, 1982, Section 5, Toshiko Takaezu By Ann Woolfolk, P. 32)

There are many shorter beautifully-coined quotes found in books and websites attributed to Confucius are spurious.

It’s time to stop misquoting him.

As Confucius or K’ung-tze said:

“If you err, do not be afraid to correct yourself.”

“ 過則勿憚改 “ (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book I, 1.8, P. 2) source

Another translation is:

“And when in the wrong let him not hesitate to amend.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book I, Concerning Fundamental Principles, Ch. VIII, P. 131) source

This maxim is certainly from “The Analects of Confucius” .

This great Chinese thinker and social philosopher came out with many wise sayings and theories about the law, life, and the government.

It was said that Confucius did not put into writing the principles of his philosophy; these were handed down only through his disciples.

In ancient China his thoughts had inspired people to learn about nature, the world, and the human behavior.

He also helped the government and the Chinese emperors by teaching them lessons on how they should rule their kingdom successfully.

Confucius Never Taken A Step

Here are some of my favorite Confucius wise words about life, law and government.

“People make errors according to the type of person they are. By observing their errors, you can understand ren (benevolence).” – Confucius

“ 人之過也、各於其黨。觀過、斯知仁矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:7, P. 15) source

Another translation is:

“A man’s faults all conform to his type of mind. Observe his faults and you may know his virtues.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. VII, P. 229)

“To err and not change – that, we may say, is to err.” – Confucius

“ 過而不改、是謂過矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:30, P. 86) source

Another translation is:

“To err and not reform may indeed be called error.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius by William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XV, Wei Ling Kung, Chiefly On The Maintenance Of Principles And Character, Ch. XXIX, P. 757)

“It used to be that with people, when I heard what they said I trusted their conduct would match. Now I listen to what they say and observe their conduct. It is because of you that I have changed.” – Confucius

“ 始吾於人也，聽其言而信其行；今吾於人也，聽其言而觀其行。於予與改是 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book V, 5:10) source

Another translation is:

“Formerly my attitude towards others was to hear what they said and give them credit for their deeds. Now my attitude towards others is to listen to what they say and note what they do. It is through Yu I have made this change.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.III, Book V, Concerning Certain Disciples And Others, Ch. IX, PP. 259 & 261)

Note: Yu is Zai Yu, who was a prominent disciple of Confucius, known for his gift in speech.

“If you desire goodness, the people will be good. The virtue of the junzi (noble man) is like the wind and the virtue of common people is like the grasses: when the wind blows over the grasses, they will surely bend.” – Confucius

“ 如殺無道、以就有道、何如孔子對曰。子爲政、焉用殺子欲善、而民善矣。君子之德風。小人之德草。草上之風必偃 “ (Mandarin)

(The Analects of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XII, 12:19) source

Another translation is:

“If your inspirations are for good, Sir, the people will be good. The moral character of those in high position is the breeze, the character of those below is the grass. When the grass has the breeze upon it, it assuredly bends.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VI, Book XII, Yen Yuan, Concerning Virtue, Nobility And Polity, Ch. XIX, PP . 589 & 591)

“The junzi (noble man) holds three things in awe. He holds the decree of Tian (Heaven) in awe, he holds great men in awe, and he holds the words of the Sage in awe. The small man does not know the decree of Tian and so does not hold it in awe, he is disrespectful towards great men, and he disgraces the words of the Sage. The junzi perfects what is beautiful in people, he does not perfect what is ugly. The small man does just the opposite.” – Confucius

“ 君子有三畏。畏天命、畏大人、畏聖人之言。小人不知天命而不畏也、狎大人、侮聖人之言 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:8) source

Another translation is:

“The man of noble mind holds three things in awe. He holds the Divine Will in awe; he holds the great in awe; and he holds the precepts of the Sages in awe. The baser man, not knowing the Divine Will, does not stand in awe of it; he takes liberties with the great; and makes a mock of the precepts of the Sages.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. VIII, PP. 795 & 797)

“The wise are not confused, the ren (benevolent) are not beset with cares, the valorous are not fearful.” – Confucius

“ 知者不惑，仁者不憂，勇者不懼 “(Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IX, 9:29) source

Another translation is:

“The enlightened are free from doubt; the Virtuous from anxiety, and the brave from fear.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.V, Book IX, Tzu Han Chiefly Personal, Ch. XXVIII, P. 457)

“To know when you know something, and to know when you don’t know, that’s knowledge.” – Confucius

“ 知之為知之，不知為不知，是知也 “(Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:17) source

Another translation is:

“Shall I teach you the meaning of knowledge? When you know a thing to recognize that you know it, and when you do not know that you do not know, – that is knowledge.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.1, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. VII, PP. 165 & 167)

“Knowing it is not so good as loving it; loving it is not so good as taking joy in it.” – Confucius

“ 知之者不如好之者，好之者不如樂之者 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book VI, 6:20) source

Another translation is:

“He who knows the Truth is not equal to him who loves it. and he who loves it is not equal to him who delights in it.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.III, Book VI, Concerning Certain Disciples And Other Subjects, Ch. XVIII, P. 309)

“The junzi (noble man) is apprehensive that he may leave the world without his name remaining praised there.” – Confucius

“ 君子疾沒世而名不稱焉 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:20) source

Another translation is:

“The nobler man hate to ends his days and leave his name undistinguished.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XV, Wei Ling Kung, Chiefly On The Maintenance Of Principles And Character, Ch. XIX, P. 745) source

“To concentrate on what is right for the people; to be attentively respectful towards ghosts and spirits but keep them at a distance – this may be called knowledge.

…People who are ren (benevolent) are first to shoulder difficulties and last to reap rewards. This may be called ren.” – Confucius

“ 務民之義，敬鬼神而遠之，可謂知矣。仁者先難而後獲，可謂仁矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book VI, 6:22) source

Another translation is:

“To devote oneself earnestly to one’s duty to humanity and, while respecting the spirits, to avoid them, may be called Wisdom.

The man of Virtue puts duties first, however difficult, and makes what he will gain thereby and after consideration, – and this may be called Virtue.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.III, Book VI, Concerning Certain Disciples And Other Subjects, Ch. XX, P. 311)

“A person who can bring new warmth to the old while understanding the new is worthy to take as a teacher.” – Confucius

“ 溫故而知新、可以爲師矣 “ (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:11) source

Another translation is:

“He who keeps on reviewing his old and acquiring new knowledge may become a teacher of others.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius by William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.1, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch.XI, P. 161) source

“Virtue is never alone; it always has neighbors.” – Confucius

“ 德不孤、必有鄰 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:25) source

Another translation is:

“Virtue never dwells alone; it always has neighbours.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. XXV, P. 243)

“A young man should be filial within his home and respectful of elders when outside, should be careful and trustworthy, broadly caring of people at large, and should cleave to those who are ren (benevolent). If he has energy left over, he may study the refinements of culture (wen).” – Confucius

“ 弟子、入則孝、出則弟、謹而信、凡愛衆、而親仁。行有餘力、則以學文 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book I, 1:6) source

Another translation is:

“When a youth is at home, let him be filial, when abroad respectful to his elders; let him be circumspect and truthful, and while exhibiting a comprehensive love for all men, let him ally himself with the good. Having so acted, if he has energy to spare, let him employ in polite studies.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book I, Concerning Fundamental Principles, Ch. VI, P. 127) source

“Do not be concerned that no one recognizes your merits. Be concerned that you may not recognize others.” – Confucius

“ 不患人之不己知、患不知人也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book I, 1:16) source

Another translation is:

“I will not grieve that men do not know me; I will grieve that I do not know men.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book I, Concerning Fundamental Principles, Ch. XVI, P. 143) source

“The wise delight in water; the ren (benevolent) delight in mountains. The wise are in motion; the ren are at rest. The wise are joyful; the ren are long lived.” – Confucius

“ 知者樂水，仁者樂山；知者動，仁者靜；知者樂，仁者壽 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book VI, 6:23) source

Another translation is:

“The clever delight in water, the Virtuous in hills; the clever are restless, the Virtuous calm; the clever enjoy life, the Virtuous prolong life.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.III, Book VI, Concerning Certain Disciples And Other Subjects, Ch. XXI, P. 313) source

“One who first tries out a precept and only after follows it.” – Confucius

“ 先行其言、而后從之 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:13) source

Another translation is:

“He first practices what he preaches and afterwards preaches according to his practice.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XIII, P. 163)

“If you study but don’t reflect you’ll be lost. If you reflect but don’t study you’ll get into trouble.” – Confucius

“ 學而不思則罔、思而不學則殆 “(Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:15) source

Another translation is:

“Learning without thought is useless. Thought without learning is dangerous.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XV, P. 165) source

“If you listen to much, put aside what seems doubtful, and assert the remainder with care, your mistakes will be few. If you observe much, put aside what seems dangerous, and act upon the remainder with care, your regrets will be few. Few mistakes in speech, few regrets in action – a salary lies therein.” – Confucius

“ 多聞闕疑、愼言其餘、則寡尤。多見闕殆、愼行其餘、則寡悔。言寡尤、行寡悔、祿在其中矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:18) source

Another translation is:

“Hear much, reserve whatever cause; you doubt and speak guardedly as to the rest; you will then have few regrets. With little for criticism in your speech, and little to regret in your conduct – herein you find preferment.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XVIII, PP. 167 & 169) source

“If you approach them with solemnity they will be respectful; if you are filial and caring they will be loyal; if you raise up the good and instruct those who lack ability they will be persuaded.” – Confucius

“ 臨之以莊、則敬; 孝慈、則忠; 擧善而教不能、則勤 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:20) source

Another translation is:

“Lead them with dignity and they will be respectful; be filial and kind and they will be loyal; promote those who excel and teach the incompetent, and they will encourage each other.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XX, P. 173)

“A person without trustworthiness, who knows what he may do? A carriage without a yoke strap, a cart without a yoke hook: how can you drive them?” – Confucius

“ 人而無信、不知其可也。大車無輗、小車無軏 , 其何以行之哉 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:22) source

Another translation is:

“A man who is without good faith – I do not know how he is to get on. A wagon without its yoke-bar for the ox, or a carriage without its collar-bar for the horses, how can it be made to go?” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XXII, P. 175) source

“To sacrifice to spirits that do not belong to you is to be a toady. To see the right and not do it is to lack courage.” – Confucius

“ 非其鬼而祭之、諂也。見義不爲、無勇也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book II, 2:24) source

Another translation is:

“To sacrifice to a spirit not one’s own is sycophancy. To see the right and not do it is cowardice.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book II, Concerning Government, Ch. XXIV, PP. 177 & 179) source

“If one sets one’s heart on ren (benevolence), there will be none he hate.” – Confucius

“ 苟志於仁矣、無惡也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4: 4) source

Another translation is:

“He who has really set his mind on Virtue will do no Evil.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. IV, P. 223) source

“If one allows oneself to follow profit in one’s behavior, there will be many with cause for complaint.“ – Confucius

“ 放於利而行、多怨 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:12) source

Another translation is:

“He who works for his own interests will arouse much animosity.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. XII, P. 233) source

“When a small man commits an error, he will always make excuses.” – Confucius

“ 小人之過也必文 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XIX, 19:8) source

Another translation is:

“The inferior man always embellished his mistakes.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.X, Book XIX, Recording Sayings Of Some Disciples, Ch. VIII, P 893) source

“Those of crafty words and ingratiating expression are rarely ren (benevolent).” – Confucius

“ 巧言令色、鮮矣仁 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book I, 1:3) source

Another translation is:

“Artful speech and an ingratiating demeanor rarely accompany Virtue.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book I, Concerning Fundamental Principles, Ch. III, P. 125)

“When walking in a group of three, my teachers are always present. I draw out what is good in them so as to emulate it myself, and what is not good in them so as to alter it in myself.” – Confucius

“ 三人行、必有我師焉。擇其善者而從之、其不善者而改之 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book VII, 7:22) source

Another translation is:

“When walking in a party of three, my teachers are always present. I can select the good qualities of the one and copy them and the unsatisfactory qualities of the other and correct them in myself.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.IV, Book VII, Concerning The Master Himself, Ch. XI, P. 353) source

“Extravagance leads towards disobedience; thrift leads towards uncouthness. Rather than be disobedient, it is better to be uncouth.” – Confucius

“ 奢則不孫，儉則固。與其不孫也，寧固 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015,Book VII, 7:36) source

Another translation:

“If prodigal then uncontrolled; if frugal then narrow: but better be narrow than beyond control.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.IV, Book VII, Concerning The Master Himself, Ch. XXXV, P. 375) source

“If a junzi (noble man) is not serious he will not be held in awe. If you study you will not be crude. Take loyalty and trustworthiness as the pivot and have no friends who are not like yourself in this. If you err, do not be afraid to correct yourself.” – Confucius

“ 君子不重、則不威。學則不固。主忠信。無友不如己者。過、則勿憚改 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book I, 1:8) source

Another translation is:

“A Scholar who is not grave will not inspire respect and his learning will therefore lack stability. His chief principles should be conscientiousness and sincerity. Let him have no friends unequal to himself. And when in the wrong let him not hesitate to amend.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book I, Concerning Fundamental Principles, Ch. VII, PP. 129 &131) source

“That the old are content with me, my friends trust me, and the young cherish me.” – Confucius

“ 老者安之，朋友信之，少者懷之 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book V, 5:26) source

Another translation is:

“That would be to comfort the aged, be faithful to my friends, and cherish the young.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.III, Book V, Concerning Certain Disciples And Others, Ch. XXV, P. 281)

“The people can be made to follow it, they cannot be made to understand it.” – Confucius

“ 民可使由之、不可使知之 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book VIII, 8:9) source

Another translation is:

“The people may be made to follow a course, but not to understand the reason why.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.IV, Book VIII, Chiefly Concerning Certain Ancient Worthies, Ch. IX, P. 395) source

“Only the ren (benevolence) person can love others and hate others.” – Confucius

“ 唯仁者能好人，能惡人” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:3) source

Another translation is:

“It is only the truly virtuous man who can love, or who can hate others.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, VoI. II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. III, P. 220) source

“One does not plead against actions already done; one does not remonstrate about affairs that have concluded. One does not assign blame concerning matters of the past.” – Confucius

“ 成事不說, 遂事不諫、旣往不咎 “ (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book III, 3:21) source

Another translation is:

“When a deed is done it is useless to discuss it, when a thing has taken its course it is useless to remonstrate, what is past and gone it is useless to blame.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.I, Book III, Concerning Manners And Music, Ch. XXI, P. 209) source

“In the morning hear the dao (ethical or moral way), in the evening die content.” – Confucius

“ 朝聞道、夕死可矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:8) source

Another translation is:

“He who heard the Truth in the morning might die content in the evening.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. VIII, P. 229) source

“The junzi’s (noble man) stance towards the world is this: there is nothing he insists on, nothing he refuses, he simply aligns himself beside right.” – Confucius

“ 君子之於天下也、無適也、無莫也、義之與比 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:10) source

Another translation is:

“The wise man in his attitude towards the world has neither predilections nor prejudices. He is on the side of what is right.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. VIII, P. 229) source

“When you see a worthy person, think of becoming equal to him; when you see an unworthy person, survey yourself within.” – Confucius

“ 見賢思齊焉。見不賢而內自省也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:17) source

Another translation is:

“When you see a man of worth, think how to rise to his level. When you see an unworthy man, then look within and examine yourself.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. XVII, P. 237) source

“Rarely has anyone missed the mark through self-constraint.” – Confucius

“ 以約失之者、鮮矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:23) source

Another translation is:

“The self-restrained seldom err.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. XXIII, P. 241) source

“When one is uninfluenced by slanderous statements about someone that reach a saturation point or by disputes that are brought before him that have a direct bearing on him, then he may be said to be discerning. He may also be said to be far-sighted.” – Confucius

“ 浸潤之譖、膚受之愬、不行焉、可謂明也已矣。浸潤之譖、膚受之愬、不行焉、可謂遠也已矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XII, 12:6) source

Another translation is:

“He who is unmoved by the insidious soaking in of slander, or by urgent representation of direct personal injury, may truly be called a man of insight. Indeed, he who is unmoved by the insidious soaking in of slander or by urgent representations of direct personal injury, may also indeed be called far-sighted.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VI, Book XII, Yen Yuan, Concerning Virtue, Nobility And Polity, Ch. VI, PP. 569 & 571)

“A man who does not think far ahead will have troubles near at hand.” – Confucius

“ 人無遠慮，必有近憂 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:12) source

Another translation is:

“Who heeds not the future will find sorrow at hand.” – Confucius

“The junzi (noble man) blames himself for lacking ability; he does not blame others for not recognizing him.” – Confucius

“ 君子病無能焉、不病人之不己知也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:19) source

Another translation is:

“The noble man is pained over his own incompetency, he is not pained that others ignore him.” – Confucius

“The junzi (noble man) seeks it in himself; the small man seeks it in others.” – Confucius

“ 君子求諸己，小人求諸人 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:21) source

Another translation is:

“The noble man seeks what he wants in himself; the inferior man seeks it from others.” – Confucius

“I have spent whole days without eating, whole nights without sleeping, in order to think. It was useless – not like study!” – Confucius

“ 吾嘗終日不食，終夜不寢，以思，無益，不如學也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:31) source

Another translation is:

“I spent the whole day without food and the whole night without sleep to think. It was of no use. It is better to learn.” – Confucius

“The junzi (noble man) does not accept being known for petty talents, but accepts receiving great burdens. The small man does not accept receiving great burdens, but accepts being known for petty talents.” – Confucius

“ 君子不可小知，而可大受也；小人不可大受，而可小知也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:34) source

Another translation is:

“A man of the higher type may not be distinguishable in minor responsibilities, but he can take great ones. An inferior man cannot undertake great responsibilities, but may be distinguished in minor ones.” – Confucius

( The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XV, Wei Ling Kung, Chiefly On The Maintenance Of Principles And Character, Ch. XXXIII, P. 763) source

“Ren (benevolence) is of greater moment to the people than water or fire. I have seen people tread through water and fire and die; I have yet to see anyone tread through ren (benevolence) and die.” – Confucius

“ 民之於仁也，甚於水火。水火，吾見蹈而死者矣，未見蹈仁而死者也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation by Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:35) source

Another translation is:

“Virtue is more to man than either water or fire. I have seen men die through walking into water or fire, but I have never seen a man die through walking the path of Virtue.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius by William Edward Soothill, Published by The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XV, Wei Ling Kung, Chiefly On The Maintenance Of Principles And Character, Ch.XXXIV, PP. 763 & 765)

“When one acts with ren (benevolence), one does not yield to one’s teacher.” – Confucius

“ 當仁、不讓於師 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:36) source

Another translation is:

“He upon whom a moral duty devolves should not give way even to his Master.” – Confucius

“The junzi (noble man) is steadfast but not rigid.” – Confucius

“ 君子貞而不諒 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XV, 15:37) source

Another translation is:

“The wise man is intelligently not blindly loyal.” – Confucius

“There are three types of friends who improve you, and three types of friends who diminish you. Friends who are straightforward, sincere, and have learned much improve you. Friends who are fawning, insincere, and crafty in speech diminish you.” – Confucius

“ 益者三友、損者三友。友直、友諒、友多聞。益矣。友便辟、友善柔、友便侫損矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:4) source

Another translation is:

“There are three kinds of friends that are beneficial, and three that are harmful. To make friends with the upright, with the faithful, with the well-informed, is beneficial. To make friends with the plausible, with the insinuating, with the glib, is harmful.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. IV, P. 789) source

“The junzi (noble man) perfects what is beautiful in people, he does not perfect what is ugly. The small man does just the opposite.” – Confucius

“ 君子成人之美、不成人之惡。小人反是 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XII, 12:16) source

Another translation is:

“The man of noble mind seeks to perfect the good in others and not their evil. The little minded man is the reverse of this.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VI, Book XII, Yen Yuan, Concerning Virtue, Nobility And Polity, Ch. XVI, P. 587) source

“There are three types of delights that improve you, and three types of delights that diminish you. To delight in li (ritual) and music, to delight in speaking of others’ good points, to delight in having many worthy friends – these improve you. To delight in arrogant pleasures, to delight in idle wanderings, to delight in banquet parties – these diminish you.” – Confucius

“ 益者三樂、損者三樂。樂節禮樂、樂道人之善、樂多賢友、益矣。樂驕樂、樂佚遊、樂宴樂、損矣 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:5) source

Another translation is:

“There are three ways of pleasure seeking that are beneficial and there are three that are harmful. To seek pleasure in the refinements of manners and music, to seek pleasure in discussing the excellence of others, to seek pleasure in making many worthy friends, – these are beneficial. To seek pleasure in unbridled enjoyment, to seek pleasure in looseness and gadding, to seek pleasure in conviviality, – they are harmful.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. V, PP. 789 & 791) source

“In attending a ruler there are three mistakes. To speak of something before an appropriate time has come is to be impetuous; to fail to speak of something when an appropriate time has come is to be secretive; to speak without gauging the ruler’s expression is to be blind.” – Confucius

“ 侍於君子有三愆：言未及之而言、謂之躁。言及之而不言、謂之隱。未見顏色而言、謂之瞽 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:6) source

Another translation is:

“There are three errors to be avoided when in the presence of a superior: – to speak before being called upon, which may be termed as forwardness; not to speak when called upon, which may be termed reticence; and to speak before noting his superior’s expression, which may be called blindness.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch.VI, PP. 791 & 793) source

“The junzi (noble man) has three cautions. When he is young and his blood and energy are not yet settled, he is cautious about sex. When he is in his prime and his blood and energy have newly achieved strength, he is cautious about combativeness. When he is old and his blood and energy are declining, he is cautious about acquisitiveness.” – Confucius

“ 君子有三戒。少之時、血氣未定、戒之在色。及其壯也、血氣方剛、戒之在岗。及其老也、血氣旣衰、戒之在得 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:7) source

Another translation is:

“There are three things the higher type of man is on his guard against. In the period of youth, before his physical nature and settled down, he guards against lust. Having reached his prime, when his physical nature has now attained his mature strength, he guards against combativeness. When he reached old age, and his physical nature is already decaying, he guards against acquisitiveness.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. VII, PP. 793 & 795) source

“Those who are born knowing are the best; next are those who study and come to know it; next are those who study it only in circumstances of duress. Those who do not study it even under duress, they are the lowest of people.” – Confucius

“ 生而知之者、上也。學而知之者、次也。困而學之、又其次也。困而不學、民斯爲下矣 “(Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:9) source

Another translation is:

“Those who have innate wisdom take highest rank. Those acquire it by study rank next. Those who learn despite natural limitations come next. But those who are of limited ability and yet will not learn, – these form the lowest class of men.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. IX, PP. 797 & 799)

“The junzi (noble man) focuses his attention in nine ways. In observation, he focuses on clarity; in listening, he focuses on acuity; in facial expression, he focuses on gentleness; in bearing, he focuses on reverence; in words, he focuses on loyalty; in affairs, he focuses on attentiveness; in doubt he focuses on questioning; in anger, he focuses on troublesome consequences; in opportunities to gain, he focuses on right.” – Confucius

“ 君子有九思。視思明、聽思聰、色思溫、貌思恭、言思忠、事思敬、疑思問、忿思難、見得思義 “(Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVI, 16:10) source

Another translation is:

“The wise man has nine points of thoughtful care. In looking, his care is to observe distinctly; in listening, his care is to apprehend clearly; in his appearance, his care is to be kindly; his manner, his care is to be respectful; in speaking, his care is to be conscientious; in his duties, his care is to be earnest; in doubt, his care is to seek information; in anger, he has a care for his consequences; and when he has opportunity for gain, his care is whether it be right?” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.VIII, Book XVI, Concerning Ministerial Responsibility Et Alia, Ch. VIII, PP. 799 & 801) source

“By nature close to one another, through practice far distant.” – Confucius

“ 性相近也，習相遠也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVII, 17:2) source

Another translation is:

“By nature men nearly resemble each other; in practice they grow wide apart.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.XVII, Book XVII, Recording Unsuitable Calls And Sundry Maxims, Ch. II, P. 813) source

“Only the wisest and the stupidest do not change.” – Confucius

“ 唯上知與下愚不移 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XVII, 17:3) source

Another translation is:

“It is only the very wisest and the very stupidest who never change.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published by The Author, 1910, Vol.XVII, Book XVII, Recording Unsuitable Calls And Sundry Maxims, Ch. III, P. 815) source

“If you do not know your destiny, you cannot be a junzi (noble man). If you don’t know li (ritual), you cannot take your stand. If you don’t interpret people’s words, you cannot interpret people.” – Confucius

“ 不知命，無以為君子也。不知禮，無以立也。不知言，無以知人也 ” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book XX, 20:3) source

Another translation is:

“He who does not know the Divine Law cannot become a noble man. He who does not know the laws of right demeanor cannot form his character. He who does not know the force of words, cannot know men.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.X, Book XX, Concerning Right Government, Ch. III, PP. 931 & 933) source

“The junzi (noble man) wishes to be slow of speech and quick in action.” – Confucius

“君子欲訥於言，而敏於行” (Mandarin)

(The Analects Of Confucius, Online Teaching Translation By Robert Eno, Version 2.2, 2015, Book IV, 4:24) source

Another translation is:

“The wise man desires to be slow to speak but quick to act.” – Confucius

(The Analects Of Confucius By William Edward Soothill, Published By The Author, 1910, Vol.II, Book IV, Concerning Virtue, Ch. XXIV, P. 243) source

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