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.
To know it is not as good as to love it, and to love it is not as good as to take delight in it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding something is less significant than loving it, while loving it is less significant than truly taking joy in it.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the progression from knowledge to love to delight. It suggests that mere understanding of a concept or an entity is the first step, but it pales in comparison to the deeper connection of love, which in turn is eclipsed by the ultimate experience of deriving joy and delight from it. It advocates for an emotional engagement that surpasses intellectual comprehension or even affection.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about personal growth, one might say this quote to emphasize the importance of emotional engagement in life.
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.
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.
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
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.
Similar quotes
Beware of those who would use violence, too often it is violence they want and neither truth nor freedom.
God cannot forgive a sinner who does not acknowledge his sin.
A madman and an arahant both smile, but the arahant knows why while the madman doesn't.
Each of us is meant to have a character all our own, to be what no other can exactly be, and do what no other can exactly do.
Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.
There is something wonderfully bold and liberating about saying yes to our entire imperfect and messy life.