SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.5

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    Ana

    When Confucius held the jade tablet (a ceremonial scepter used in diplomatic missions), he bowed slightly, appearing reverent and cautious, as if he could barely bear its weight. When raising it upward, his gesture resembled a bow; when lowering it, it was like offering something to another. His expression was solemn, almost tense, and…

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.4

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    Ana

    When Confucius entered the ducal gate, he bowed deeply as if there were no room for him. He never stood in the center of the doorway, nor did he step on the threshold. Passing by the ruler’s seat, his expression instantly became solemn, his steps quickened, and his speech grew hushed, as though he…

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.3

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    Ana

    When the ruler summoned Confucius to receive guests, his expression instantly became solemn, and his steps quick and nimble. When bowing to colleagues standing beside him, he courteously saluted with both left and right hands. As he moved, his robe fluttered neatly front and back, never disheveled. When hastening forward, his posture was graceful…

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.2

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    Ana

    When at court, Confucius spoke with lower-ranking officials in a relaxed, forthright, and affable manner; with higher-ranking officials, he was respectful, upright, and measured in speech; and when the ruler was present, he appeared both reverently cautious and gracefully composed.

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.1

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    Ana

    When Confucius was among his fellow townspeople, he was modest and gentle, appearing almost unable to speak. But in ancestral temples or at court, he spoke fluently and clearly – yet always with caution.

  • The Analects – Chapter 9.31

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    Ana

    An ode says: “The blossoms of the tang-di tree flutter back and forth. How could I not long for you? It’s just that my home is far from yours.” Confucius commented, “If one truly longed, one would have already acted – how could distance ever be a barrier?”