Quotes from the Analects

The Analects is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius and his disciples. Compiled over the centuries following his death in 479 BC, the Analects has been one of the foundational texts of Confucianism, influencing the moral and philosophical values of China and East Asia. Here are ten inspirational quotes from the Analects, each followed by a brief explanation:

1. "Is it not delightful to have friends coming from distant quarters?"
• This quote emphasizes the joy and value of friendship and the importance of welcoming and cherishing connections with people from all walks of life and places.

 

2. "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop."
• This encourages perseverance and patience in pursuing goals or self-improvement, highlighting the importance of consistent effort over the speed of achievement.
3. "What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others."
• This is a formulation of the Golden Rule, advocating for empathy and moral integrity in one’s actions, emphasizing the importance of treating others with the same respect and kindness one desires for oneself.
4. "Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous."
• This quote underscores the importance of combining learning with critical thinking. It suggests that rote memorization without understanding is futile, and acting without knowledge is dangerous.
5. "The gentleman understands what is right, whereas the petty man understands what will sell."
• Confucius makes a distinction between those who pursue moral righteousness and those driven by self-interest or profit. This quote encourages prioritizing ethical principles over personal gain.
6. "To see what is right and not to do it is want of courage."
• This stresses the importance of moral courage and integrity, implying that recognizing the right thing to do is not enough without the courage to act on it.
7. "He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger."
• This echoes the idea that both learning and critical thinking are essential. Neglecting either leads to folly or danger, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to knowledge and reflection.
8. "By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest."
• Confucius outlines three paths to gaining wisdom, each with its own merits and challenges, encouraging a multifaceted approach to personal growth and understanding.
9. "The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones."
• This quote is about the power of persistence and taking small, consistent steps towards achieving a large goal, highlighting the importance of patience and steady effort.
10. "When anger rises, think of the consequences."
• This advice cautions against the impulsivity of anger, urging one to consider the long-term effects of one’s actions in moments of emotional turmoil, promoting self-control and foresight.