Analects-1 — Chapter 7

The Master said, "Is it not a pleasure to learn and to repeat or practice from time to time what has been learned? Is it not delightful to have friends coming from afar? Is not one a true gentleman who does not feel displeased when others fail to recognize his merits?"

Yu Tzu said, "It is rare for a person who is filial and respectful of elders to be inclined to transgress against superiors. It has never happened that one not inclined to transgress against superiors is inclined to create disorder."

The Master said, "Clever words and a pleasing countenance have little connection with being Good."

Tseng Tzu said, "Each day I examine myself on three things: In planning for others, have I been loyal? In my dealings with friends, have I been trustworthy? Have I practiced what has been passed on to me?"

The Master said, "In leading a state of a thousand chariots: be reverent in handling affairs and display trustworthiness; be frugal in expenditures and love the people; employ the people only at the proper times."

The Master said, "At home, a young man should be filial. Outside the home, he should be respectful to his elders. He should be careful in practice and trustworthy in word. He should love all people broadly, and draw close to those who are Good. If he has extra energy after so doing, let him devote it to learning the cultural arts."

Tzu-hsia said, "One who recognizes and admires worthiness and changes his lustful nature, who is able to fully exhaust his strength in serving his parents, who is able to offer his life in serving his prince, and whose words are trustworthy in dealings with friends — though others may say he is unlearned, I would definitely call him learned."

The Master said, "If a gentleman is not dignified, then he will not command respect, and his learning will not be on a firm foundation. Hold loyalty and trustworthiness as your highest principles. Do not make friends with those who are lesser than yourself. When you make a mistake, do not be afraid to correct it."