The Analects – Chapter 72 (4.7). Faults as mirrors to moral character

4.7

The Master said, “People’s faults vary according to their kind. By observing their faults, one comes to understand their humanity.”

子曰：「人之過也，各於其黨。觀過，斯知仁矣。」

Notes

This passage from the Analects tells that mistakes follow discernible patterns: a person’s faults correlate intrinsically with their character, aspirations, and environment. Those of certain dispositions commit certain types of errors. Observing a person’s faults can thus reveal their moral character and cultivation, whether they are benevolent or not.