Confucius & the Philosophy of Confucianism

Confucius was a famous thinker and social philosopher of China, whose teachings have deeply influenced East Asia for centuries. Living in the Spring and Autumn period (a time when feudal states fought against each other), he was convinced of his ability to restore the world's order, though failed. After much travelling around China to promote his ideas among rulers, he eventually became involved in teaching disciples. His philosophy emphasized personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, and justice and sincerity. Used since then as the imperial orthodoxy, Confucius' thoughts have been developed into a vast and complete philosophical system known in the west as Confucianism.

The following quotes from The Analects demonstrate the simplicity and wisdom of Confucianism;

“ Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles.”

“ I am not one who was born in the possession of knowledge; I am one who is fond of antiquity, and earnest in seeking it there.”

“ Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it.”

“ Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses.”

“ Men's natures are alike, it is their habits that carry them far apart.”

“ Respect yourself and others will respect you.”

“ Study the past if you would define the future.”

“ To see what is right, and not to do it, is want of courage or of principle.”

“ What the superior man seeks is in himself; what the small man seeks is in others.”

“ When anger rises, think of the consequences.”

“ When we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves.”

“ Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart.”

“ They must often change who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.”

“ Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.”

“ Have no friends not equal to yourself.”

“ If a man takes no thought about what is distant, he will find sorrow near at hand.”