SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

empathy

  • The Analects – Chapter 15.42

    •

    Ana

    The blind musician Shi Mian came to visit Confucius. When he reached the steps, the Master said, “These are the steps.” When he approached the mat, the Master said, “This is the mat.” After everyone was seated, Confucius informed him, “So-and-so is here, and so-and-so is here.”After Shi Mian left, Zi Zhang asked, “Is…

  • The Analects – Chapter 15.24

    •

    Ana

    Zigong asked, “Is there one word that can be practiced for a lifetime?” The Master said, “Perhaps it is ‘shu’ (reciprocity)! Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.”

  • The Analects – Chapter 12.2

    •

    Ana

    Zhong Gong (Ran Yong) asked about humaneness. The Master said, “When you go out, behave as if you were receiving a distinguished guest; when you employ the people, act as if you were conducting a great sacrifice. Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire. Then, whether serving in government or…

  • The Analects – Chapter 10.12

    •

    Ana

    The stable caught fire. When Confucius returned from court, his first question was, “Was anyone hurt?” He did not ask about the horses.

  • The Analects – Chapter 9.10

    •

    Ana

    When Confucius saw someone in mourning dress, an official wearing ceremonial robes and cap, or a blind person – even if they were younger than himself – he would always rise from his seat as a sign of respect. When passing by them, he would always quicken his pace.

  • Expanded Collection of Adages – Part 1

    •

    Ana

    The wise writings of old instruct you earnestly and sincerely.Collected in rhyme and expanded into text, they broaden your sight and hearing.

  • Mencius – Chapter 8.12 Original innocence and Moral purity

    •

    Ana

    Mencius said: “A truly noble person is one who has not lost the heart of a newborn child.”

  • Dao De Jing – Chapter 69

    •

    Ana

    Chapter 69 employs military metaphors to unveil the Daoist philosophy of ‘retreating to advance’ and ‘softness overcoming hardness’. Lao Tzu first references ancient military wisdom: ‘I dare not take the initiative but prefer to respond; I dare not advance an inch but prefer to withdraw a foot’. This emphasizes avoiding provocation, resisting rash aggression,…