1,153 Quotes by Confucius

In ancient times, those who wished to illuminate the world with virtue first brought order to their nations. Wishing to order well their nations, they first harmonized their families. Wishing to harmonize their families, they first cultivated themselves. Wishing to cultivate themselves, they first rectified their minds. Those who wished to rectify their minds first made their intentions sincere.

Looking at small advantages prevents great affairs from being accomplished.

If I am virtuous and worthy, for whom should I not maintain a proper concern?

No matter where you go - there you are

We should not be too familiar with the lower orders or with women,

There was a man from Sung who pulled at his rice plants because he was worried about their failure to grow

You can successfully force people to follow a certain course, but you cannot force them to understand it.

If you don't want to do something,don't impose on others

An inch of time on the sundial is worth more than a foot of jade.