The Master said, “The most virtuous withdraw from the world entirely; the next withdraw from a particular state; the next avoid disrespectful looks; and the next avoid offensive words.”The Master added, “There have already been seven such people.”
The Master sighed, “No one truly understands me!”Zigong asked, “Why is it that no one understands you?”The Master replied, “I do not blame Heaven, nor do I resent others. I study what is below and thereby penetrate what is above. Perhaps only Heaven truly understands me!”
The Kang Gao (in the Book of Documents) says: “Be able to manifest your bright virtue.”The Tai Jia says: “Constantly reflect upon and uphold Heaven’s bright mandate.”The Di Dian (i.e., the Yao Dian) says: “Be able to illuminate your lofty and luminous virtue.” All of these point to self-illumination – making one’s own inner…