Mencius said: “When the whole world is delighted and ready to submit to him, Shun regarded this universal acclaim as lightly as a blade of grass or a speck of dust. Only Shun could do this.”
In the chaotic final years of the Eastern Han dynasty, the struggle for supremacy hinged not merely on military might, but on governance, leadership, and strategic vision.
8.16The Master said, “Impetuous, but tricky! Ingenuous, but dishonest! Simple-minded, but capable of breaking promises! To such men I can give no recognition.”
5.25 The Master said, “Clever talk, a pretentious manner and a reverence that is only of the feet — Zuo Qiuming was incapable of stooping to them, and I too could never stoop to them. Having to conceal one’s indignation and keep on friendly terms with the people against whom one feels it —…
Zigong asked about the true gentleman. The Master said, “He does not preach what he practises till he has practised what he preaches.”
The Master said,”‘Clever talk and a pretentious manner’ are seldom found in the Good.”
Man must keep his mind wide open, so that righteousness can take up its dwelling there.