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
Return good for good; return evil with justice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of responding to kindness with kindness and addressing wrongdoing with fairness.
Confucius advocates for a balanced moral approach in interactions. He suggests that when someone does good, it should be reciprocated with gratitude or kindness; however, when faced with evil or wrongdoing, the response should not be revenge but rather a quest for justice. This philosophy encourages integrity and fairness in all dealings, fostering a society where mutual respect prevails.
Themes
GoodEvilJusticeMoralityReciprocity
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a community event discussing ethical leadership might use this quote to emphasize the importance of fairness.
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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