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
Those who know the TRUTH are not equal to those who love it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding the truth is different from having a deep appreciation for it.
This quote by Confucius suggests that there is a significant difference between merely possessing knowledge of the truth and truly valuing or loving that truth. It implies that those who cherish and seek the truth go beyond just intellectual acknowledgment; they engage with it on a deeper, emotional or moral level, which can lead to personal growth and wisdom.
Themes
TruthWisdomKnowledgeLoveValue
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can serve as a thought for reflection during a philosophy discussion.
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
Similar quotes
Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold.
Leo TolstoyRead
Everything can be sacrificed for truth, but truth cannot be sacrificed for anything.
Swami VivekanandaRead
Know the enemy and know yourself; in a hundred battles you will never peril.
Sun TzuRead
Hard work keeps the wrinkles out of the mind and spirit.
Helena RubinsteinRead
Old age treats freelance writers pretty gently.
John UpdikeRead
For all things difficult to acquire, the intelligent man works with perseverance.
LaoziRead