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Mencius – Chapter 13.21
Mencius distinguishes secular desires, worldly joys and unchanging inner nature. Benevolence, righteousness, ritual and wisdom rooted in the heart stay steady through success or poverty, shining naturally in one’s bearing and gestures.
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Mencius – Chapter 13.20
Mencius names three supreme joys for gentlemen, excluding worldly kingship: intact family, a clear conscience with no shame before heaven and men, and nurturing talented pupils to carry forward moral truths.
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Mencius – Chapter 13.18
Hardships breed virtue, wisdom and discernment. Marginalized ministers and concubine-born sons live with constant vigilance and deep forethought over risks. Such crisis awareness grants them thorough insight into life’s truths.
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Mencius – Chapter 13.17
Mencius simplifies moral self-cultivation into two core restraints: refrain from wrongful deeds and reject improper cravings. This minimalist practice relies on inner conscience to guard one’s heart, forming the plain yet fundamental standard of being a virtuous person.