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E. W.
THE ANALECTS
BOOK I
On Learning--Miscellaneous Sayings:--
"To learn," said the Master, "and then to practise opportunely what one
has learnt--does not this bring with it a sense of satisfaction?
"To have associates in study coming to one from distant parts--does not
this also mean pleasure in store?
"And are ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The disciple Tsz-hiŠ said, "The appreciation of worth in men of worth,
thus diverting the mind from lascivious desires--ministering to parents
while one is the most capable of so doing--serving one's ruler when one
is able to devote himself entirely to that object--being sincere in
one's language in intercourse with f... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"When truth and right are hand in hand, a statement will bear
repetition. When respectfulness and propriety go hand in hand, disgrace
and shame are kept afar-off. Remove all occasion for alienating those to
whom you are bound by close ties, and you have them still to resort to."
A saying of the Master:--
"The man of ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"To govern upon principles of virtue, and to reduce them to order by the
Rules of Propriety, would not only create in them the sense of shame,
but would moreover reach them in all their errors.
"When I attained the age of fifteen, I became bent upon study. At
thirty, I was a confirmed student. At forty, nought could m... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Other observations of the Master:--
"If you observe what things people (usually) take in hand, watch their
motives, and note particularly what it is that gives them satisfaction,
shall they be able to conceal from you what they are? Conceal
themselves, indeed!
"Be versed in ancient lore, and familiarize yourself with... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Some one, speaking to Confucius, inquired, "Why, sir, are you not an
administrator of government?" The Master rejoined, "What says the 'Book
of the Annals,' with reference to filial duty?--'Make it a point to be
dutiful to your parents and amicable with your brethren; the same duties
extend to an administrator.' If th... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Where a man," said he again, "has not the proper feelings due from one
man to another, how will he stand as regards the Rules of Propriety? And
in such a case, what shall we say of his sense of harmony?"
On a question being put to him by Lin Fang, a disciple, as to what was
the radical idea upon which the Rules of Pr... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"When I am present at the great quinquennial sacrifice to the _manes_ of
the royal ancestors," the Master said, "from the pouring-out of the
oblation onwards, I have no heart to look on."
Some one asked what was the purport of this great sacrifice, and the
Master replied, "I cannot tell. The position in the empire of ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Referring to the First of the Odes, he remarked that it was mirthful
without being lewd, and sad also without being painful.
Duke Ngai asked the disciple Tsai Wo respecting the places for
sacrificing to the Earth. The latter replied, "The Family of the Great
Yu, of the HiŠ dynasty, chose a place of pine trees; the Yin... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Comparing the music of the emperor Shun with the music of King Wu, the
Master said, "That of Shun is beautiful throughout, and also good
throughout. That of Wu is all of it beautiful, but scarcely all of it
good."
"High station," said the Master, "occupied by men who have no large and
generous heart; ceremonial perfor... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Only they in whom it exists can have right likings and dislikings for
others.
"Where the will is set upon it, there will be no room for malpractices.
"Riches and honor are what men desire; but if they arrive at them by
improper ways, they should not continue to hold them. Poverty and low
estate are what men dislike; ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"One should not be greatly concerned at not being in office; but rather
about the requirements in one's self for such a standing. Neither should
one be so much concerned at being unknown; but rather with seeking to
become worthy of being known."
Addressing his disciple Tsang Sin, the Master said, "Tsang Sin, the
princ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
BOOK V
A Disciple and the Golden Rule--Miscellaneous
The Master pronounced Kung-ye Ch'ang, a disciple, to be a marriageable
person; for although lying bound in criminal fetters he had committed no
crime. And he gave him his own daughter to wife.
Of Nan Yung, a disciple, he observed, that in a State where the
governme... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"What say you then of Yen Yu?"
"As for Yen," he replied, "in a city of a thousand families, or in a
secondary fief, [11] he might be charged with the governorship; but I
cannot answer for his good-naturedness."
"Take Tsz-hwa, then; what of him?"
"Tsz-hwa," said he, "with a cincture girt upon him, standing as
attendant... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Respecting Tsz-ch'an,[12] the Master said that he had four of the
essential qualities of the 'superior man':--in his own private walk he
was humble-minded; in serving his superiors he was deferential; in his
looking after the material welfare of the people he was generously kind;
and in his exaction of public service ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Once, when the Master lived in the State of Ch'in, he exclaimed, "Let me
get home again! Let me get home! My school-children [13] are wild and
impetuous! Though they are somewhat accomplished, and perfect in one
sense in their attainments, yet they know not how to make nice
discriminations."
Of Peh-I and Shuh Ts'i he ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
[Footnote 12: A great statesman of Confucius's time.]
[Footnote 13: A familiar way of speaking of his disciples in their
hearing.]
BOOK VI
More Characteristics--Wisdom--Philanthropy
Of Yen Yung, a disciple, the Master said, "Yung might indeed do for a
prince!"
On being asked by this Yen Yung his opinion of a certain ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Adverting to Hwķi again, he said, "For three months there would not be
in his breast one thought recalcitrant against his feeling of good-will
towards his fellow-men. The others may attain to this for a day or for a
month, but there they end."
When asked by Ki K'ang whether Tsz-lu was fit to serve the government,
the ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
_Obiter dicta_ of the Master:--
"Whoever has not the glib utterance of the priest T'o, as well as the
handsomeness of Prince ChŠu of Sung, will find it hard to keep out of
harm's way in the present age.
"Who can go out but by that door? Why walks no one by these guiding
principles?
"Where plain naturalness is more in ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Why should he really do so?" answered the Master. "The good man or, a
superior man might be induced to go, but not to go down. He may be
misled, but not befooled."
"The superior man," said he, "with his wide study of books, and hedging
himself round by the Rules of Propriety, is not surely, after all that,
capable of... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"The things which weigh heavily upon my mind are these--failure to
improve in the virtues, failure in discussion of what is learnt,
inability to walk according to knowledge received as to what is right
and just, inability also to reform what has been amiss."
In his hours of recreation and refreshment the Master's mann... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Among matters over which he exercised great caution were times of
fasting, war, and sickness.
When he was in the State of Ts'i, and had heard the ancient Shau music,
he lost all perception of the taste of his meat. "I had no idea," said
he, "that music could have been brought to this pitch."
In the course of conversat... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Let there," he said, "be three men walking together: from that number I
should be sure to find my instructors; for what is good in them I should
choose out and follow, and what is not good I should modify."
On one occasion he exclaimed, "Heaven begat Virtue in me; what can man
do unto me?"
To his disciples he once sa... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
When Confucius had withdrawn, the minister bowed to Wu-ma K'i, a
disciple, and motioned to him to come forward. He said, "I have heard
that superior men show no partiality; are they, too, then, partial? That
prince took for his wife a lady of the Wu family, having the same
surname as himself, and had her named 'Lady T... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
[Footnote 18: These were six in number, viz.: Ceremonial, Music,
Archery, Horsemanship, Language, and Calculation.]
[Footnote 19: Lit., three forces. Each force consisted of 12,500 men,
and three of such forces were the equipment of a greater State.]
BOOK VIII
Sayings of Tsang--Sentences of the Master
Speaking of T'a... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Another saying of the Scholar Tsang: "I once had a friend who, though he
possessed ability, would go questioning men of none, and, though
surrounded by numbers, would go with his questions to isolated
individuals; who also, whatever he might have, appeared as if he were
without it, and, with all his substantial acquir... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"If not occupying the office, devise not the policy.
"When the professor Chi began his duties, how grand the finale of the
First of the Odes used to be! How it rang in one's ears!
"I cannot understand persons who are enthusiastic and yet not
straightforward; nor those who are ignorant and yet not attentive; nor
again ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
A man of the village of Tah-hiang exclaimed of him, "A great man is
Confucius!--a man of extensive learning, and yet in nothing has he quite
made himself a name!"
The Master heard of this, and mentioning it to his disciples he said,
"What then shall I take in hand? Shall I become a carriage driver, or an
archer? Let m... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Ah!" exclaimed he once, "the phoenix does not come! and no symbols
issue from the river! May I not as well give up?"
Whenever the Master met with a person in mourning, or with one in
full-dress cap and kirtle, or with a blind person, although they might
be young persons, he would make a point of rising on their appea... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Once he remarked, "After I came back from Wei to Lu the music was put
right, and each of the Festal Odes and Hymns was given its appropriate
place and use."
"Ah! which one of these following," he asked on one occasion, "are to be
found exemplified in me--proper service rendered to superiors when
abroad; duty to father... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"One who stands--clad in hempen robe, the worse for wear--among others
clad in furs of fox and badger, and yet unabashed--'tis Tsz-lu, that, is
it not?"
Tsz-lu used always to be humming over the lines--
"From envy and enmity free,
What deed doth he other than good?"
"How should such a rule of life," asked the Mast... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Whenever the prince summoned him to act as usher to the Court, his look
would change somewhat, and he would make as though he were turning round
to do obeisance.
He would salute those among whom he took up his position, using the
right hand or the left, and holding the skirts of his robe in proper
position before and ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
As to his food, he never tired of rice so long as it was clean and pure,
nor of hashed meats when finely minced. Rice spoiled by damp, and sour,
he would not touch, nor tainted fish, nor bad meat, nor aught of a bad
color or smell, nor aught overdone in cooking, nor aught out of season.
Neither would he eat anything t... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
When he was in waiting, and at a meal with the prince, the prince would
make the offering,[25] and he (the Master) was the pregustator.
When unwell, and the prince came to see him, he would arrange his
position so that his head inclined towards the east, would put over him
his Court robes, and draw his girdle across t... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
[Footnote 22: Because, it is said, such colors were adopted in fasting
and mourning.]
[Footnote 23: Because they did not belong to the five correct colors
(viz. green, yellow, carnation, white, and black), and were affected
more by females.]
[Footnote 24: Since white was, as it is still, the mourning color.]
[Footnot... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The disciples then wished for the deceased a grand funeral. The Master
could not on his part consent to this. They nevertheless gave him one.
Upon this he remarked, "He used to look upon me as if I were his father.
I could never, however, look on him as a son. Twas not my mistake, but
yours, my children."
Tsz-lu propo... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"As to Hwķi," said the Master, "he comes near to perfection, while
frequently in great want. Tsz-kung does not submit to the appointments
of Heaven; and yet his goods are increased;--he is often successful in
his calculations."
Tsz-chang wanted to know some marks of the naturally Good Man.
"He does not walk in others'... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Well, are they then," he asked, "such as will follow their leader?"
"They would not follow him who should slay his father and his prince!"
was the reply.
Through the intervention of Tsz-lu, Tsz-kau was being appointed governor
of Pi.
"You are spoiling a good man's son," said the Master.
Tsz-lu rejoined, "But he will ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The Master drew in his breath, sighed, and exclaimed, "Ah, I take with
you!"
The three other disciples having gone out, leaving Tsang Sin behind, the
latter said, "What think you of the answers of those three?"--"Well,
each told me what was uppermost in his mind," said the Master;--"simply
that."
"Why did you smile at... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Chung-kung asked about man's proper regard for his fellows.
To him the Master replied thus: "When you go forth from your door, be as
if you were meeting some guest of importance. When you are making use of
the common people (for State purposes), be as if you were taking part in
a great religious function. Do not set b... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Tsz-kung put a question relative to government. In reply the Master
mentioned three essentials:--sufficient food, sufficient armament, and
the people's confidence.
"But," said the disciple, "if you cannot really have all three, and one
has to be given up, which would you give up first?"
"The armament," he replied.
"An... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Good!" exclaimed the duke; "truly if a prince fail to be a prince, and
ministers to be ministers, and if fathers be not fathers, and sons not
sons, then, even though I may have my allowance of grain, should I ever
be able to relish it?"
"The man to decide a cause with half a word," exclaimed the Master, "is
Tsz-lu!"
... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"That," said the Master, "is reputation, not influence. The influential
man, then, if he be one who is genuinely straightforward and loves what
is just and right, a discriminator of men's words, and an observer of
their looks, and in honor careful to prefer others to himself--will
certainly have influence, both throug... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Tsz-kung was consulting him about a friend. "Speak to him frankly, and
respectfully," said the Master, "and gently lead him on. If you do not
succeed, then stop; do not submit yourself to indignity."
The learned Tsang observed, "In the society of books the 'superior man'
collects his friends; in the society of his fri... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Fan Ch'i requested that he might learn something of husbandry. "For
that." said the Master, "I am not equal to an old husbandman." Might he
then learn something of gardening? he asked. "I am not equal to an old
gardener." was the reply.
"A man of little mind, that!" said the Master, when Fan Ch'i had gone
out. "Let a ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Again, "How true is that saying, 'Let good men have the management of a
country for a century, and they would be adequate to cope with
evil-doers, and thus do away with capital punishments,'"
Again, "Suppose the ruler to possess true kingly qualities, then surely
after one generation there would be good-will among men... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The Duke of Sheh in a conversation with Confucius said, "There are
some straightforward persons in my neighborhood. If a father has stolen
a sheep, the son will give evidence against him."
"Straightforward people in my neighborhood are different from those,"
said Confucius. "The father will hold a thing secret on his ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"The nobler-minded man," he remarked, "will be agreeable even when he
disagrees; the small-minded man will agree and be disagreeable."
Tsz-kung was consulting him, and asked, "What say you of a person who
was liked by all in his village?"
"That will scarcely do," he answered.
"What, then, if they all disliked him?"
"T... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Learned officials," said he, "who hanker after a home life, are not
worthy of being esteemed as such."
Again, "In a country under good government, speak boldly, act boldly.
When the land is ill-governed, though you act boldly, let your words be
moderate."
Again, "Men of virtue will needs be men of words--will speak o... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Respecting Mang Kung-ch'oh, he said that, while he was fitted for
something better than the post of chief officer in the ChŠu or Wei
families, he was not competent to act as minister in small States like
those of T'ang or Sieh.
Tsz-lu asked how he would describe a perfect man. He replied, "Let a man
have the sagacity ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The Master replied, "When Duke Hwan held a great gathering of the feudal
lords, dispensing with military equipage, it was owing to Kwan Chung's
energy that such an event was brought about. Match such good-will as
that--match it if you can."
Tsz-kung then spoke up. "But was not Kwan Chung wanting in good-will? He
could... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
He went to the Three Chiefs and informed them, but nothing could be
done. Whereupon again he said, "Since he uses me to back his ministers,
I did not dare not to announce the matter."
Tsz-lu was questioning him as to how he should serve his prince.
"Deceive him not, but reprove him," he answered.
"The minds of superio... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"In a well-bred horse," said he, "what one admires is not its speed, but
its good points."
Some one asked, "What say you of the remark, 'Requite enmity with
kindness'?"
"How then," he answered, "would you requite kindness? Requite enmity
with straightforwardness, and kindness with kindness."
"Ah! no one knows me!" he ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Tsz-chang once said to him, "In the 'Book of the Annals'
it is stated that while KŠu-tsung was in the Mourning Shed he
spent the three years without speaking. What is meant by
that?"
"Why must you name KŠu-tsung?" said the Master. "It
was so with all other ancient sovereigns: when one of them
died, the heads of every ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Duke Ling of Wei was consulting Confucius about army arrangements. His
answer was, "Had you asked me about such things as temple requisites, I
have learnt that business, but I have not yet studied military matters."
And he followed up this reply by leaving on the following day.
After this, during his residence in the... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Not to speak to a man." said he, "to whom you ought to speak, is to
lose your man; to speak to one to whom you ought not to speak is to lose
your words. Those who are wise will not lose their man nor yet their
words."
Again, "The scholar whose heart is in his work, and who is
philanthropic, seeks not to gain a liveli... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"The trouble of the superior man will be his own want of ability: it
will be no trouble to him that others do not know him.
"Such a man thinks it hard to end his days and leave a name to be no
longer named.
"The superior man is exacting of himself; the common man is exacting of
others.
"A superior man has self-respect... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"If there be intellectual attainments, and the humanity within is
powerful enough to keep guard over them, yet, unless (in a ruler) there
be dignity in his rule, the people will fail to show him respect.
"Again, given the intellectual attainments, and humanity sufficient to
keep watch over them, and also dignity in ru... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"It is the wish of our Chief," said Yen Yu, "not the wish of either of
us ministers."
Confucius said, "Yen, there is a sentence of ChŠu Jin which runs thus:
'Having made manifest their powers and taken their place in the official
list, when they find themselves incompetent they resign; if they cannot
be firm when dang... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"When the empire is well-ordered," said Confucius, "it is from the
emperor that edicts regarding ceremonial, music, and expeditions to
quell rebellion go forth. When it is being ill governed, such edicts
emanate from the feudal lords; and when the latter is the case, it will
be strange if in ten generations there is n... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Again, "Three things a superior should guard against:--(1) against the
lusts of the flesh in his earlier years while the vital powers are not
fully developed and fixed; (2) against the spirit of combativeness when
he has come to the age of robust manhood and when the vital powers are
matured and strong, and (3) agains... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Tsz-k'in asked of Pih-yu, "Have you heard anything else peculiar from
your father?"
"Not yet," said he. "Once, though, he was standing alone when I was
hurrying past him over the vestibule, and he said, 'Are you studying the
Odes?' 'Not yet,' I replied. 'If you do not learn the Odes,' said he,
'you will not have the w... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"True," said Confucius; "I will take office."
It was a remark of the Master that while "by nature we approximate
towards each other, by experience we go far asunder."
Again, "Only the supremely wise and the most deeply ignorant do not
alter."
The Master once, on his arrival at Wu-shing, heard the sound of stringed
ins... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Yes," said the Master, "those are indeed my words; but is it not said,
'What is hard may be rubbed without being made thin,' and 'White may be
stained without being made black'?--I am surely not a gourd! How am I to
be strung up like that kind of thing--and live without means?"
"Tsz-lu," said the Master, "you have he... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Again, "In olden times people had three moral infirmities; which, it may
be, are now unknown. Ambitiousness in those olden days showed itself in
momentary outburst; the ambitiousness of to-day runs riot. Austerity in
those days had its sharp angles; in these it is irritable and perverse.
Feebleness of intellect then w... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Then if you can be satisfied in so doing, do so. But to a gentleman,
who is in mourning for a parent, the choicest food will not be
palatable, nor will the listening to music be pleasant, nor will
comforts of home make him happy in mind. Hence he does not do as you
suggest. But if you are now happy in your mind, then... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Again, "When a man meets with odium at forty, he will do so to the end."
[Footnote 32: Different woods were adopted for this purpose at the
various seasons.]
BOOK XVIII
Good Men in Seclusion--Duke of Chow to His Son
"In the reign of the last king of the Yin dynasty," Confucius I said,
"there were three men of philan... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"He knows then where the ford is," said he.
Tsz-lu then put his question to Kieh-nih; and the latter asked, "Who are
you?"
Tsz-lu gave his name.
"You are a follower of Confucius of Lu, are you not?"
"You are right," he answered.
"Ah, as these waters rise and overflow their bounds," said he, "'tis so
with all throughou... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Among those who have retired from public life have been Peh-I and
Shuh-Ts'i, Yu-chung, I-yih, Chu-chang, Hwķi of Liuhia, and ShŠu-lien.
"Of these," said the Master, "Peh-I and Shuh-Ts'i may be characterized,
I should say, as men who never declined from their high resolve nor
soiled themselves by aught of disgrace.
"Of... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
[Footnote 34: Two worthies who had abandoned public life, owing to the
state of the times.]
BOOK XIX
Teachings of Various Chief Disciples
"The learned official," said Tsz-chang, "who when he sees danger ahead
will risk his very life, who when he sees a chance of success is mindful
of what is just and proper, who in h... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"The superior man is seen in three different aspects:--look at him from
a distance, he is imposing in appearance; approach him, he is gentle and
warm-hearted; hear him speak, he is acute and strict.
"Let such a man have the people's confidence, and he will get much work
out of them; so long, however, as he does not po... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Again, "This also I have heard said by the Master: 'The filial piety of
Mang Chwang in other respects might be equalled, but as manifested in
his making no changes among his father's ministers, nor in his father's
mode of government--that aspect of it could not easily be equalled.'"
Yang Fu, having been made senior Cr... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Shuh-sun Wu-shuh had been casting a slur on the character of Confucius.
"No use doing that," said Tsz-kung; "he is irreproachable. The wisdom
and worth of other men are little hills and mounds of earth:
traversible. He is the sun, or the moon, impossible to reach and pass.
And what harm, I ask, can a man do to the sun... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Chow possessed great gifts, by which the able and good were richly
endowed.
"Although," said King Wu, "he is surrounded by his near relatives, they
are not to be compared with men of humane spirit. The people are
suffering wrongs, and the remedy rests with me--the one man."
After Wu had given diligent attention to the... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"What, then, do you call the four evils?" said Tsz-chang.
The answer here was, "Omitting to instruct the people and then
inflicting capital punishment on them--which means cruel tyranny.
Omitting to give them warning and yet looking for perfection in
them--which means oppression. Being slow and late in issuing
requisi... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
E.W.
THE SAYINGS OF MENCIUS
BOOK I
KING HWUY OF LňANG
Part I
Mencius went to see King Hwuy of LŽang. [1] The king said, "Venerable
Sir, since you have not counted it far to come here a distance of a
thousand li, may I presume that you are likewise provided with counsels
to profit my kingdom?" Mencius replied, "Why ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
King Wan used the strength of the people to make his tower and pond, and
the people rejoiced to do the work, calling the tower 'the Marvellous
Tower,' and the pond 'the Marvellous Pond,' and being glad that he had
his deer, his fishes and turtles. The ancients caused their people to
have pleasure as well as themselves... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Let mulberry trees be planted about the homesteads with their five
acres, and persons of fifty years will be able to wear silk. In keeping
fowls, pigs, dogs, and swine, let not their time of breeding be
neglected, and persons of seventy years will be able to eat flesh. Let
there not be taken away the time that is pro... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
King Hwuy of LŽang said, "There was not in the kingdom a stronger State
than Ts'in, as you, venerable Sir, know. But since it descended to me,
on the east we were defeated by Ts'e, and then my eldest son perished;
on the west we lost seven hundred li of territory to Ts'in; and on the
south we have sustained disgrace a... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"'Who can so unite it?' he asked.
"I replied, 'He who has no pleasure in killing men can so unite it.'
"'Who can give it to him?' he asked.
"I replied, 'All under heaven will give it to him. Does your Majesty
know the way of the growing grain? During the seventh and eighth months,
when drought prevails, the plants bec... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"It did," said the king, and Mencius replied, "The heart seen in this is
sufficient to carry you to the Royal sway. The people all supposed that
your Majesty grudged the animal, but your servant knows surely that it
was your Majesty's not being able to bear the sight of the creature's
distress which made you do as you... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The king asked, "How may the difference between him who does not do a
thing and him who is not able to do it be graphically set forth?"
Mencius replied, "In such a thing as taking the T'ae mountain under your
arm, and leaping with it over the North Sea, if you say to people, 'I am
not able to do it,' that is a real ca... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
The king said, "No. How should I derive pleasure from these things? My
object in them is to seek for what I greatly desire."
Mencius said, "May I hear from you what it is that your Majesty greatly
desires?" The king laughed, and did not speak. Mencius resumed, "Are you
led to desire it because you have not enough of r... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"Now, if your Majesty will institute a government whose action shall all
be benevolent, this will cause all the officers in the kingdom to wish
to stand in your Majesty's court, the farmers all to wish to plough in
your Majesty's fields, the merchants, both travelling and stationary,
all to wish to store their goods i... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
"If your Majesty wishes to carry out a benevolent government, why not
turn back to what is the essential step to its attainment?
"Let mulberry trees be planted about the homesteads with their five
acres, and persons of fifty years will be able to wear silk. In keeping
fowls, pigs, dogs, and swine, let not their times ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
E. W.
THE SHI-KING
_PART I--LESSONS FROM THE STATES_
BOOK I
THE ODES OF CHOW AND THE SOUTH
~Celebrating the Virtue of King Wan's Bride~
Hark! from the islet in the stream the voice
Of the fish-hawks that o'er their nests rejoice!
From them our thoughts to that young lady go,
Modest and virtuous, loth herse... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Graceful and young the peach-tree stands;
How rich its flowers, all gleaming bright!
This bride to her new home repairs;
Chamber and house she'll order right.
Graceful and young the peach-tree stands;
Large crops of fruit it soon will show.
This bride to her new home repairs;
Chamber and house ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
To mount that lofty ridge I drove,
Until my steeds all changed their hue.
A cup from that rhinoceros's horn
May help my longing to subdue.
Striving to reach that flat-topped hill,
My steeds, worn out, relaxed their strain;
My driver also sank oppressed:--
I'll never see my lord again!
~Celebrat... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
~Praise of a Rabbit-Catcher~
Careful he sets his rabbit-nets all round;
_Chang-chang_ his blows upon the pegs resound.
Stalwart the man and bold! his bearing all
Shows he might be his prince's shield and wall.
Careful he is his rabbit-nets to place
Where many paths of rabbits' feet bear trace.
Stalwart th... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
~The Industry and Reverence of a Prince's Wife~
Around the pools, the islets o'er,
Fast she plucks white Southern-wood,
To help the sacrificial store;
And for our prince does service good.
Where streams among the valleys shine,
Of Southern-woods she plucks the white;
And brings it to the sacred shr... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
O touch not that sweet pear-tree!
Bend not a twig of it now.
There long ago,
As the stories show,
Oft halted the chief of Shaou.
~The Easy Dignity of the Officers at Some Court~
Arrayed in skins of lamb or sheep,
With five silk braidings all of white,
From court they go, to take their mea... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
My mind is fixed, and cannot, like a stone,
Be turned at will indifferently about;
And what I think, to that, and that alone,
I utterance give, alike within, without;
Nor can like mat be rolled and carried out.
With dignity in presence of them all,
My conduct marked, my goodness who shall scout?
... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
I go along the road,
Slow, with reluctant heart.
Your escort lame to door but came,
There glad from me to part.
Sow-thistle, bitter called,
As shepherd's purse is sweet;
With your new mate you feast elate,
As joyous brothers meet.
Part clear, the stream of King
Is foul beside the Wei.
Y... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
This march to the South can end but in ill;
Oh! never shall we our wives again meet.
The word that we pledged we cannot fulfil;
Us home returning they never will greet.
~An Officer Tells of His Mean Employment~
With mind indifferent, things I easy take;
In every dance I prompt appearance make:--
Then... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Color green the robe displays;
Lower garment yellow's blaze.
Thus it is that favorite mean
In the place of wife is seen.
Vain the conflict with my grief;
Memory denies relief.
Yes, 'twas you the green who dyed,
You who fed the favorite's pride.
Anger rises in my heart,
Pierces it as with a dart.
... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
We look for red, and foxes meet;
For black, and crows our vision greet.
The creatures, both of omen bad,
Well suit the state of Wei so sad.
Let us join hands and mount our cars,
My friends and lovers all.
No time remains for wordy jars;
Things for prompt action call.
~Chwang Keang Bemoans Her Husba... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
~A Wife Consoled by Her Husband's Arrival~
Cold is the wind, fast falls the rain,
The cock aye shrilly crows.
But I have seen my lord again;--
Now must my heart repose.
Whistles the wind, patters the rain,
The cock's crow far resounds.
But I have seen my lord again,
And healed are my heart's wo... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
~A Lady Mourns the Absence of Her Student Lover~
You student, with the collar blue,
Long pines my heart with anxious pain.
Although I do not go to you,
Why from all word do you refrain?
O you, with girdle strings of blue,
My thoughts to you forever roam!
Although I do not go to you,
Yet why to ... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Renowned through all the land is he,
The nephew of our lord.
With clear and lovely eyes, his grace
May not be told by word.
All day at target practice,
He'll never miss the bird.
Such is the prince of Loo, and yet
With grief for him we're stirred!
All grace and beauty he displays,
High fo... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 | |
Conscious of wealth, he moves with easy mien;
Politely on the left he takes his place;
The ivory pin is at his girdle seen:--
His dress and gait show gentlemanly grace.
Why do we brand him in our satire here?
'Tis this---his niggard soul provokes the sneer.
~A Young Soldier on Service~
To the top o... | Chinese literature : $b Comprising the Analects of Confucius, the Sayings of Mencius, the Shi-King, the Travels of Fâ-Hien, and the Sorrows of Han | Confucius | -551 | -479 | ['en'] | 116 | {'China -- Literary collections', 'Chinese literature', 'Chinese literature -- Translations into English'} | PG10056 |
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