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
Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True knowledge comes from recognizing how much we don't know.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness in the pursuit of knowledge. It suggests that acknowledging one's ignorance is a critical step towards genuine understanding and learning, as it encourages curiosity and the desire to seek out new information.
Themes
KnowledgeIgnoranceHumilityUnderstandingLearning
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a classroom setting to encourage students to be open about their learning process.
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.
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.
ConfuciusRead
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