Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
When abroad, behaveto everyone as if interviewing an honored guest; in directing the people, act as if you were assisting at a great sacrafice; DO NOT DO TO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD NOT LIKE DONE TO YOURSELF: so there will be no murmuring against you in the country, and none in the family; your public life will arouse no ill-will nor your private life any resentment.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Treat others with respect and kindness to foster harmony in both public and private life.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of treating others with the utmost respect and dignity, comparing interactions to hosting an honored guest. By advocating for the 'Golden Rule'—to not do to others what you would not want done to yourself—it underlines that such behavior not only nurtures peaceful relationships in society but also within the family, therefore creating a harmonious existence free of resentment and ill-will.
Themes
RespectKindnessHarmonyInteractionsGolden Rule
In practice
Example use cases
This quote would be perfect to share during a team-building exercise to encourage respectful communication.
More from Confucius
All quotes →Earnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
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.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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