Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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The Master said, “When those in high position value and practice ritual propriety, the people are easy to guide.”
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Zizhang asked, “The Book of Documents says, ‘When Gaozong was in mourning, he did not speak for three years.’ What does this mean?”The Master replied, “It was not only Gaozong – this was the practice of all ancient people. When a ruler died, all officials managed their own duties and submitted to the Chief…
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The Master said, “If you are not in a particular position, do not meddle in its affairs.”Zengzi added, “The noble person’s thoughts do not go beyond his proper role.”
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8.15The Master said, “When Zhi the Chief Musician led the climax of the Ospreys (Guan Ju), what a grand flood of sound filled one’s ears!”
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8.14The Master said, “He who holds no rank in a State does not discuss its policies.”
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7.36 The Master said, “Just as lavishness leads easily to presumption, so does frugality to meanness. But meanness is a far less serious fault than presumption.”
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7.21 The Master never talked of prodigies, feats of strength, disorders or spirits.
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5.13 Zigong said, “Our Master’s views concerning culture and the outward insignia of goodness, we are permitted to hear; but about Man’s nature and the ways of Heaven he will not tell us anything at all.”
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3.1 Confucius said of the head of the Ji family when he had eight teams of dancers performing in his courtyard, “If this man can be endured, who cannot be endured!”