Quotes from Confucius

Look not at what is contrary to propriety; listen not to what is contrary to propriety; speak not what is contrary to propriety; make no movement which is contrary to propriety.

Consideration for others is the basis of a good life, a good society.

Where words lose their meaning, people lose their lives.

To practice five things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue; these five are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.

I am not bothered by the fact that I am not understood. I am bothered when I do not know others.

Expect much from yourself and little from others and you will avoid incurring resentments

Without Goodness one cannot enjoy enduring happiness

If what one has to say is not better than silence, then one should keep silent.

Learn as if you were not reaching your goal and as though you were scared of missing it

Heaven gives long life to the just and the intelligent.

If I understand Change, I shall make no great mistake in Life

To know everything is to know nothing, but to know nothing is to know everything.

For benefits return benefits; for injuries return justice without any admixture of revenge.

Those who break down the dikes will themselves be drowned in the inundation.

If I am building a mountain and stop before the last basketful of earth is placed on the summit, I have failed.

To those whose talents are above mediocrity, the highest subjects may be announced. To those who are below mediocrity, the highest subjects may not be announced.

Is any one able for one day to apply his strength to virtue? I have not seen the case in which his strength would be sufficient.

The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.

Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.

The gem cannot be polished without friction nor man without trials.

If you want to change the world, first change your heart.

The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later.

Without an acquaintance with the rules of propriety, it is impossible for the character to be established

Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues.