Quotes from Confucius

Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change.

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.

Three things cannot long be hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.

If you chase two rabbits, you catch none.

A man of wisdom delights in water.

He who knows all the answers has not been asked all the questions.

To know is to know that you know nothing. That is the meaning of true knowledge.

To take what you know for what you know, and what you do not know for what you do not know, that is knowledge indeed.

The beginning of wisdom is to call things by their proper name.

Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?

If you try to do too much, you will not achieve anything.

Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.

The man of wisdom is never of two minds; the man of benevolence never worries; the man of courage is never afraid.

To be fond of learning is near to wisdom.

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

To be fond of learning is near to wisdom; to practice with vigor is near to benevolence; and to be conscious of shame is near to fortitude.

All wisdom is rooted in learning to call things by the right name. When things are properly identified, they fall into natural categories and understanding becomes orderly.

The love to Wisdom is getting closer to the own bright path.

To understand yourself is the key to wisdom.

Knowledge is merely brilliance in organization of ideas and not wisdom. The truly wise person goes beyond knowledge.

The way out is through the door. Why is it that no one will use this method?

When you see a good man, try to emulate his example, and when you see a bad man, search yourself for his faults.

Time flows away like the water in the river.

Gravity is only the bark of wisdom's tree, but it preserves it.