The Master said, “If the noble person studies widely in cultural texts and disciplines himself with ritual propriety, he will not stray from the right path!”
Zi Zhang asked about governance. The Master said, “Be tireless in holding your position, and carry out your duties with loyalty.”
Confucius, ancient China’s greatest philosopher, shared profound bonds with his students, among whom Yan Hui, Zilu, and Zigong stood out as his most cherished disciples. Their stories, recorded in The Analects, reveal Confucius’ ideals of virtue, loyalty, and wisdom.