Zilu asked how to serve a ruler. The Master said, “Do not deceive him, but dare to remonstrate with him openly – even if it offends him.”
The Master said, “Duke Wen of Jin was crafty but not upright; Duke Huan of Qi was upright but not crafty.”
What is meant by “governing the state must begin with regulating one’s family” is this:There has never been anyone who could not teach his own family yet was able to instruct others.
Mencius said: “If a ruler executes scholar-officials without just cause, then high ministers may leave the state.If a ruler massacres common people without guilt, then scholar-officials (educated individuals) may relocate to another country.”
Mencius said to Yuezheng Zi (Yuezheng Ke): “Your coming here with Zi Ao is merely for the sake of food and drink.I never expected that someone who has studied the ancient Way would stoop to seeking just a meal!”
Gongsun Chou asked Mencius: “What is the principle behind scholars not seeking audiences with feudal lords?”
Zhou Xiao asked: “Did the gentlemen of ancient times take office?”