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
To know is to know that you know nothing. That is the meaning of true knowledge.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True knowledge involves recognizing the limits of our understanding.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of humility in the pursuit of knowledge. It suggests that acknowledging one's ignorance is a sign of wisdom and that true understanding comes not from accumulating facts, but from the awareness that there is always more to learn.
Themes
KnowledgeWisdomIgnoranceHumilityLearning
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about education, one might say this quote to emphasize the importance of a growth mindset.
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.
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.
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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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