Confucius Quotes

“We can no longer rely on the external teachings of Buddha, Confucius, or Christ. The era of organized religion controlling every aspect of life is over. No single religion has all the answers.”

“If the people be led by laws, and uniformity sought to be given them by punishments, they will try to avoid the punishment, but have no sense of shame. ‘If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good.”

“He who exercises government by means of his virtue may be compared to the north polar star, which keeps its place and all the stars turn towards it.”

“While a man’s father is alive, look at the bent of his will; when his father is dead, look at his conduct. If for three years he does not alter from the way of his father, he may be called filial.”

“To rule a country of a thousand chariots, there must be reverent attention to business, and sincerity; economy in expenditure, and love for men; and the employment of the people at the proper seasons.”

“I will not be afflicted at men’s not knowing me; I will be afflicted that I do not know men.”

“Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.”

“Have no friends not equal to yourself.”

“If a man keeps cherishing his old knowledge, so as continually to be acquiring new, he may be a teacher of others.”

“He acts before he speaks, and afterwards speaks according to his actions.”

“When you have faults, do not fear to abandon them.”

“I have talked with Hui for a whole day, and he has not made any objection to anything I said;— as if he were stupid. He has retired, and I have examined his conduct when away from me, and found him able to illustrate my teachings. Hui!— He is not stupid.”