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
The scholar does not consider gold and jade to be precious treasures, but loyalty and good faith.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True value lies in loyalty and good faith rather than material wealth.
In this quote by Confucius, the scholar emphasizes that the true treasures in life are not material possessions like gold and jade, but rather the virtues of loyalty and good faith. This reflects a deeper philosophical view that relationships and moral integrity are far more valuable than superficial wealth, highlighting the importance of character and trust in human interactions.
Themes
LoyaltyGood FaithValuesTreasuresWisdomCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about building strong relationships in business.
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
I was looking in the mirror the other day and I realized I haven't changed much since I was in my twenties. The only difference is I look a whole lot older now.
George CarlinRead
If you desire healing, let yourself fall ill let yourself fall ill.
RumiRead
Seeking to forget makes exile all the longer; the secret of redemption lies in remembrance.
Richard Von WeizsaeckerRead
Know that humiliation does not weaken you, it strengthens you. The more egoistic you are, the more humiliation you feel. When you are childlike and have a greater sense of kinship, you do not feel humiliated. When you are steeped in love with the Existence, with the Divine, nothing whatsoever can humiliate you.
Sri Sri Ravi ShankarRead
Dreams are often most profound when they seem the most crazy.
Sigmund FreudRead
We alchemists look for talent that can heat up and change. Lukewarm won't do. Halfhearted holding back, well-enough getting by? Not here.
RumiRead