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
Study the past if you want to define the future.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding history is crucial for shaping the future.
This quote emphasizes the importance of learning from past experiences and historical events to inform and guide future decisions. Confucius suggests that by studying and reflecting on what has already occurred, individuals and societies can avoid repeating mistakes and create a more informed, thoughtful path toward the future.
Themes
HistoryFutureLearningWisdomReflection
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about education reform, one might use this quote to highlight the need for historical perspective in policy-making.
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
What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.
John WoodenRead
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.
Maya AngelouRead
I wonder what it is that the people who criticize me for telling this story truly object to: is it that I have dared to tell the story? Or that the story turns out not to be the one they wanted to hear?
Joyce MaynardRead
The magic, the wonder, the mystery and the innocence of a childs heart are the seeds of creativity that will heal the world. I really believe that. What we need to learn from children isnt childish. Being with them connects us to the deeper wisdom of life, which is everpresent and only asks to be lived. They know the way to solutions that lie waiting to be recognized within our own hearts.
Michael JacksonRead
Thought and theory must precede all salutary action; yet action is nobler in itself than either thought or theory.
Virginia WoolfRead
I think it will be found that experience, _x000D_ the true source and foundation of all knowledge, _x000D_ invariably confirms its truth.
Thomas MalthusRead