1,153 Quotes by Confucius

In speaking, it is best to be clear and say just enough to convey the meaning.

The gentleman is calm and at ease. The gentleman is dignified but not proud; the small man is proud but not dignified.

The Essence of Knowledge is, having it, to use it.

In a district of ten families, there must be someone as honorable and sincere as I, but none as fond of learning.

While the gentleman cherishes benign rule, the small man cherishes his native land. While the gentleman cherishes a respect for the law, the small man cherishes generous treatment.

At seventy, I could follow the dictates of my own heart; for what I desired no longer overstepped the boundaries of right.

We can know a person by observing his behaviour, understanding the reasons for his actions and ascertaining his intentions. If we do this, how can we not know him?

The parents age must be remembered, both for joy and anxiety.

The demands that a great man makes are on himself; those of a petty man are upon others.