Confucius Books
Confucius (551–479 BCE) was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political figure known for his teachings on morality, social relationships, and justice. As the founder of Confucianism, his ideas have shaped Chinese civilization and influenced cultures across East Asia for over two millennia.
Known for: The Analects
Books by Confucius
The Analects
The Analects is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius and his disciples. Compiled during the Warring States period, it presents discussions on ethics, politics, education, and proper conduct. The work embodies the core values of Confucianism, such as benevolence, propriety, and the doctrine of the mean, and has profoundly influenced Chinese and East Asian thought and culture.
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The Heart of Benevolence (*Ren*)
Whenever I spoke of virtue, I began with *ren*, for it is the pulse of moral life. Without *ren*, propriety becomes hollow form, righteousness becomes stubborn pride, and knowledge becomes cunning. *Ren* is the warmth that allows one to regard others as oneself. When Zilu once asked me what *ren* me...
From The Analects
Ritual Propriety (*Li*): The Shape of Harmony
Benevolence has its inner fire, but that fire needs a form; that form is *li*, ritual propriety. In my time, many thought *li* meant bowing and ceremony, but I told my students: ritual without respect is empty, and respect without form is rootless. *Li* brings feeling into order; it teaches reverenc...
From The Analects
About Confucius
Confucius (551–479 BCE) was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political figure known for his teachings on morality, social relationships, and justice. As the founder of Confucianism, his ideas have shaped Chinese civilization and influenced cultures across East Asia for over two millennia.
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Confucius (551–479 BCE) was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political figure known for his teachings on morality, social relationships, and justice. As the founder of Confucianism, his ideas have shaped Chinese civilization and influenced cultures across East Asia for over two millennia.
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