Yuan Xian, Confucius’ disciple, lives in a shabby cottage yet plays zither calmly. He tells wealthy Zigong poverty differs from moral failure, condemning hypocritical scholars chasing fame. Embarrassed, Zigong feels ashamed for his snide remark ever after.
The Master said, “The noble person is ashamed when his words exceed his actions.”
The Master said, “In ancient times, scholars studied to cultivate themselves; nowadays, scholars study to impress others.”
The Master said, “A person of virtue will surely have meaningful words; but one who has words is not necessarily virtuous. A humane (benevolent) person will surely possess courage; but a courageous person is not necessarily humane.”
The Master said, “Firmness, resoluteness, simplicity, and cautious speech—these qualities bring one close to benevolence/humaneness.”
The Master said, “The noble person is calm and composed but not arrogant; the petty person is arrogant but not calm.”
The Master said, “Is someone praised merely because his words sound sincere and earnest? Is he truly a noble person (junzi), or just someone who puts on a solemn appearance?”
Mencius said: “A truly noble person is one who has not lost the heart of a newborn child.”