The Master said, “The noble person seeks from himself; the petty person seeks from others.”
Note
This saying from the Analects of Confucius concisely captures the core of Confucian self-cultivation philosophy – “turning inward for self-examination”, which places moral practice firmly on personal reflection and self-improvement.
“Seeking from himself”means that when facing problems, setbacks, or interpersonal conflicts, the noble person first examines whether his own words and actions align with righteousness and whether he has fulfilled his responsibilities. In contrast, the petty person habitually shifts blame onto others or external circumstances.
This difference is not merely behavioral but reflects a fundamental divide in moral character: the noble person builds life on self-discipline, while the petty person navigates the world through resentment and accusation. The former grows through introspection; the latter stagnates – or even deteriorates – through outward blame.
This teaching closely aligns with Analects 15.15: “Be strict with yourself and lenient in blaming others, and you will stay far from resentment,” together forming the Confucian guideline for healthy human relations: hold oneself to high standards, be forgiving toward others.
For Confucians, true strength lies not in controlling others but in mastering oneself. As the Great Learning states: “The noble person first cultivates virtue within himself before expecting it of others.”
This insight is especially relevant today: in personal development, teamwork, and public discourse, people often rush to criticize others while neglecting self-reflection. Confucius reminds us: To change the world, begin by changing yourself; to solve a problem, start by examining your own role.
In short, Confucius teaches: The noble person exerts effort inwardly; the petty person shifts blame outwardly. To bring peace to others, one must first cultivate oneself through self-examination.
Further Reading
The Master said, “Be strict with yourself and lenient in blaming others, and you will stay far from resentment.” Analects 15.15 (Wei Ling Gong)
Both emphasize self-accountability over blaming others as the path to moral maturity and harmonious relationships.
The Master said, “When you see a worthy person, aspire to be like him; when you see an unworthy one, examine yourself inwardly.” Analects 4.17 (Li Ren)
Reinforces the habit of using all experiences – positive or negative – as opportunities for self-reflection, not judgment of others.
The Master said, “Do not worry that others do not know you; worry that you lack ability.” Analects 14.30 (Xian Wen)
Shifts focus from external validation to internal competence – consistent with “seeking from oneself.”
子曰：「君子求諸己，小人求諸人。」
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