His innovative social philosophy - occupied with the practical issues of how society works as a selfless weave of caring relationships - remains remarkably current today Through his practice of self-cultivation, Confucius became a great sage and devoted himself passionately to the public good, in spite of hunger, homelessness, and violence. It may easily be argued that these texts have had a deeper impact on more people's lives over a longer period of time than any other book in human history Regardless, the Analects represents, as a matter of historical fact, the fundamental body of thought that has shaped Chinese civilization for more than two thousand years. Other parts of the text may be apocryphal. Many of the book's fragments are assumed to represent the Master's teachings, handed down accurately by his disciples. The book's defining characteristic is its form - brief aphoristic fragments, each appearing with little supporting context VII.The Analects, or Lun Yu, represents the primary surviving source for the teachings of Confucius, the most influential sage in human history. When he has time and opportunity, after the performance of these things, he should employ them in polite studies.’ĬHAP.

He should overflow in love to all, and cultivate the friendship of the good. The Master said, ‘A youth, when at home, should be filial, and, abroad, respectful to his elders. The Master said, 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.’ĬHAP. The philosopher Tsang said, ‘I daily examine myself on three points:â€” whether, in transacting business for others, I may have been not faithful â€” whether, in intercourse with friends, I may have been not sincere â€” whether I may have not mastered and practised the instructions of my teacher.’ĬHAP. The Master said, ‘Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.’ CHAP. Filial piety and fraternal submission!â€” are they not the root of all benevolent actions?’ĬHAP. That being established, all practical courses naturally grow up. ‘The superior man bends his attention to what is radical. There have been none, who, not liking to offend against their superiors, have been fond of stirring up confusion. The philosopher Yu said, ‘They are few who, being filial and fraternal, are fond of offending against their superiors. ‘Is he not a man of complete virtue, who feels no discomposure though men may take no note of him?’ĬHAP.

‘Is it not delightful to have friends coming from distant quarters?’ 3.

The Master said, ‘Is it not pleasant to learn with a constant perseverance and application? 2. THE CHINESE CLASSICS (CONFUCIAN ANALECTS)ĬHAPTER I.

The confucian analects