• The Analects – Chapter 14.12

    Zilu asked Confucius, “What kind of person can be called a ‘complete person’ (a morally and intellectually fulfilled individual)?”The Master said, “If someone possesses the wisdom of Zang Wuzhong, the lack of desire of Gongchuo, the courage of Bian Zhuangzi, and the talents of Ran Qiu – and is further refined by ritual and…

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.11

    The Master said, “Meng Gongchuo would be more than capable as a senior counselor to the Zhao or Wei families of Jin, but he would not be suited to serve as a chief minister of small states like Teng or Xue.”

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.10

    The Master said, “It is difficult to be poor without resentment; it is easier to be rich without arrogance.”

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.9

    Someone asked Confucius about Zi Chan. The Master said, “He was a man who showed kindness to the people.”He then asked about Zi Xi. Confucius replied, “That man! That man!” (a dismissive and evasive expression).He further asked about Guan Zhong. Confucius said, “He was a true man! He confiscated three hundred households of Bo…

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.8

    The Master said, “In drafting official documents [or diplomatic proclamations], Bi Chen would first compose a draft; Shi Shu would then discuss and revise it; Xing Ren Zi Yu would polish the wording; and Dong Li Zi Chan would finally refine and finalize it.”

  • The Analects – Chapter 14.7

    The Master said, “If you truly love someone, can you refrain from making him work hard? If you are sincerely devoted to someone, can you avoid instructing him?”