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
For benefits return benefits; for injuries return justice without any admixture of revenge.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote advocates for responding to kindness with kindness and addressing wrongs with justice rather than revenge.
Confucius emphasizes the importance of reciprocity in human relationships. When someone does good for you, it is vital to return that goodwill, and when wronged, one should seek justice rather than letting revenge cloud their judgment. This notion encourages a harmonious society where actions are guided by moral principles rather than emotional reactions.
Themes
ReciprocityJusticeKindnessRevengeMorality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of justice in community relations.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest 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.
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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.
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Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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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.
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Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
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