For those who want to learn Chinese, the quotes by Confucius are great learning materials. Then, How many Confucius quotes do you know now? What do the sayings of Confucius mean?
In this article, we will provide you with famous Confucius quotes and phrase, including funny Confucius quotes, and the golden rule quotes about philosophy, life, love and Education. If you don’t know about Confucius quotes and are eager to know more, scroll down to read more and have a deep understanding of this concept.
Part 1. Confucius Quotes Overview
Only a few philosophers from ancient times are still famous in the world. Confucius is one of those philosophers of China who are still studied and followed in this modern age. He was a teacher and philosopher who was born in 551 BC and became popular because of Confucius quotes. Throughout his life, he stated many quotes and philosophies related to different departments of life, including love, work, and many others.
Undoubtedly, you can find hundreds of philosophers and influencers who have written quotes related to their respective life departments. But Konfuzius quotes are different from all those quotes because they are focused on unique concepts like human nature, ethics, morality, family love, and life principles. The majority of Confucius quotes belongs to these specific parts of your life.
Part 2: Funny Confucius Quotes
Confucius is not only a great thinker and educator from ancient China; his words continue to transcend time and space with their unique charm, influencing people all around the world even today. Among Confucius’ sayings, there are many that are both wise and amusing. These sayings are interesting because they reveal profound truths in simple language and relate closely to daily life, making them easy to resonate with.
To let his followers laugh, Confucius has also added some funny quotes to his collection. You can find his quotes in different languages and laugh by reading them. We have listed a few funny Confucius quotes to help you understand his humor and his funny jokes.
#1. If one does not understand life, how can one understand death?
| Chinese | 未知生，焉知死。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Li Ren |
| Pinyin | wèi zhī shēng, yān zhī sǐ |
| Meaning | Wealth gained through unjust means is to me as a floating cloud, meaningless. Not everyone understands this principle, but a superior man seeks righteousness over riches. |
2. If one understands the way of righteousness in the morning, it is acceptable to die for it by evening.
| Chinese | 朝闻道，夕死可矣。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Li Ren |
| Pinyin | zhāo wén dào, xī sǐ kě yǐ |
| Meaning | If one understands the way of righteousness in the morning, it is acceptable to die for it by evening. A true friend would support such dedication. |
3. The wise delight in water, while the benevolent delight in mountains.
| Chinese | 知者乐水，仁者乐山。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Li Ren |
| Pinyin | zhī zhě lè shuǐ, rén zhě lè shān |
| Meaning | The wise delight in water, while the benevolent delight in mountains. The life of a man seeks balance between these elements, while a small man seeks only transient pleasures. |
4. Wealth gained through unjust means is to me as a floating cloud, meaningless.
| Chinese | 不义而富且贵，于我如浮云。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Shu Er |
| Pinyin | bù yì ér fù qiě guì, yú wǒ rú fú yún |
| Meaning | If the money is earned honestly, even simple living feels good. Unjust wealth brings disaster. |
5. The noble man understands righteousness, while the petty person understands profit.
| Chinese | 君子喻于义，小人喻于利。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Shu Er |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ yù yú yì, xiǎo rén yù yú lì |
| Meaning | The noble man understands righteousness, while the petty person understands profit. A small man seeks gains, often at the expense of principles. |
6. Swimming in the Yi River, feeling the wind on the dance platform, and singing home.
| Chinese | 浴乎沂，风乎舞雩，咏而归。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Xianjin |
| Pinyin | yù hū yí, fēng hū wǔ yóu, yǒng ér guī |
| Meaning | Swimming in the Yi River, feeling the wind on the dance platform, and singing home. This captures the spirit of joy that a man finds in simple pleasures. |
7. “Time flows like this! It does not cease day or night.”
| Chinese | 子在川上曰：逝者如斯夫！不舍昼夜。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | zǐ zài chuān shàng yuē: shì zhě rú sī fū! bù shě zhòu yè |
| Meaning | The Master said by the river: “Time flows like this! It does not cease day or night.” |
8. “Like cutting and polishing, like carving and grinding.”
| Chinese | 如切如磋，如琢如磨。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | rú qiē rú cuō, rú zhuó rú mó |
| Meaning | Like cutting and polishing, like carving and grinding. |
9. “The noble man is harmonious yet not the same; the petty person is the same yet not harmonious.”
| Chinese | 君子和而不同，小人同而不和。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ hé ér bù tóng, xiǎo rén tóng ér bù hé |
| Meaning | The noble man is harmonious yet not the same; the petty person is the same yet not harmonious. |
10. “The Book of Songs contains 305 pieces; in one sentence it can be summarized: Thoughts must be pure, with no evil.”
| Chinese | 诗三百，一言以蔽之，曰：思无邪。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Xianjin |
| Pinyin | shī sān bǎi, yī yán yǐ bèi zhī, yuē: sī wú xié |
| Meaning | The Book of Songs contains 305 pieces; in one sentence it can be summarized: Thoughts must be pure, with no evil. |
11. “Wise people enjoy water, as they are active; benevolent people enjoy mountains, as they are serene. The wise are joyful, and the benevolent live longer.”
| Chinese | 知者乐水，仁者乐山。知者动，仁者静，知者乐，仁者寿。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Xianjin |
| Pinyin | zhī zhě lè shuǐ, rén zhě lè shān. zhī zhě dòng, rén zhě jìng, zhī zhě lè, rén zhě shòu |
| Meaning | Wise people enjoy water, as they are active; benevolent people enjoy mountains, as they are serene. The wise are joyful, and the benevolent live longer. |
12. “When paths are different, do not make plans together.”
| Chinese | 道不同，不相为谋。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius: Book of Xianjin |
| Pinyin | dào bù tóng, bù xiāng wéi móu |
| Meaning | When paths are different, do not make plans together. |
13. “Rotten wood cannot be carved.”
| Chinese | 朽木不可雕也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | xiǔ mù bù kě diāo yě |
| Meaning | Rotten wood cannot be carved. |
14. “His wisdom can be reached by others, but his foolishness cannot.”
| Chinese | 其知可及也，其愚不可及也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | qí zhī kě jí yě, qí yú bù kě jí yě |
| Meaning | His wisdom can be reached by others, but his foolishness cannot. |
15. “Those who merely know something are not as good as those who love it, and those who love it are not as good as those who enjoy it.”
| Chinese | 知之者不如好之者，好之者不如乐之者。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | zhī zhī zhě bù rú hǎo zhī zhě, hǎo zhī zhě bù rú lè zhī zhě |
| Meaning | Those who merely know something are not as good as those who love it, and those who love it are not as good as those who enjoy it. |
16. “If wealth can be pursued, I would even be a charioteer for it; if it cannot be pursued, I’d prefer to follow my own interests.”
| Chinese | 富而可求也，虽执鞭之士，吾亦为之。如不可求，从吾所好。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | fù ér kě qiú yě, suī zhí biān zhī shì, wú yì wéi zhī. rú bù kě qiú, cóng wǒ suǒ hǎo |
| Meaning | If wealth can be pursued, I would even be a charioteer for it; if it cannot be pursued, I’d prefer to follow my own interests. |
17. “A noble person’s mind is broad and open, while a petty person’s heart is filled with sorrow.”
| Chinese | 君子坦荡荡，小人长戚戚。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ tǎn dàng dàng, xiǎo rén cháng qī qī |
| Meaning | A noble person’s mind is broad and open, while a petty person’s heart is filled with sorrow. |
18. “Human nature is similar, but habits distance people.”
| Chinese | 性相近也，习相远也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | xìng xiāng jìn yě, xí xiāng yuǎn yě |
| Meaning | Human nature is similar, but habits distance people. |
19. “With a simple meal and a drink, living in a humble place, one may be troubled, yet still not change their joy.”
| Chinese | 一箪食，一瓢饮，在陋巷，人不堪其忧，回也不改其乐。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | yī dān shí, yī piào yǐn, zài lòu xiàng, rén bùkān qí yōu, huí yě bù gǎi qí lè |
| Meaning | With a simple meal and a drink, living in a humble place, one may be troubled, yet still not change their joy. |
20. “The noble man loves wealth, but it must be gained ethically; the virtuous woman loves beauty, but must accept it with propriety.”
| Chinese | 君子爱财，取之有道；贞妇爱色，纳之以礼。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ ài cái, qǔ zhī yǒu dào; zhēn fù ài sè, nà zhī yǐ lǐ |
| Meaning | The noble man loves wealth, but it must be gained ethically; the virtuous woman loves beauty, but must accept it with propriety. |
21. “To do good work, one must first sharpen their tools.”
| Chinese | 工欲善其事，必先利其器。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | gōng yù shàn qí shì, bì xiān lì qí qì |
| Meaning | To do good work, one must first sharpen their tools. |
22. “Today’s filial piety is simply the ability to provide; even dogs and horses can be cared for. Without respect, what is the difference?”
| Chinese | 今之孝者，是谓能养。至于犬马，皆能有养；不敬，何以别乎？ |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects of Confucius |
| Pinyin | jīn zhī xiào zhě, shì wèi néng yǎng. zhì yú quǎn mǎ, jiē néng yǒu yǎng; bù jìng, hé yǐ bié hū? |
| Meaning | Today’s filial piety is simply the ability to provide; even dogs and horses can be cared for. Without respect, what is the difference? |
Part 3. Philosopher Confucius Quotes
Confucius, one of history’s most influential philosophers, offers a wealth of wisdom that continues to resonate today. His quotes on philosophy encapsulate fundamental principles of ethics, self-cultivation, and the importance of social harmony. Characterized by their simplicity and depth, these sayings often challenge us to reflect on our values and behaviors. Here are some famous quotes about philosophy.
1. A virtuous superior man will never be lonely; there will always be like-minded true friends around him.
| Chinese | 德不孤，必有邻。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·里仁》 |
| Pinyin | dé bù gū, bì yǒu lín |
| Meaning | This highlights that those with good character attract others who share similar values, ensuring companionship and support in their journey. |
2. Without long-term considerations, a person’s life will inevitably face immediate worries.
| Chinese | 人无远虑，必有近忧。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·卫灵公》 |
| Pinyin | rén wú yuǎn lǜ, bì yǒu jìn yōu |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the importance of foresight; neglecting future planning can lead to unforeseen problems. |
3. In the company of three, a man can always learn wisdom from others, choosing to follow their good ways.
| Chinese | 三人行，必有我师焉，择其善者而从之，其不善者而改之。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·述而》 |
| Pinyin | sān rén xíng, bì yǒu wǒ shī yān, zé qí shàn zhě ér cóng zhī, qí bù shàn zhě ér gǎi zhī |
| Meaning | This illustrates the value of learning from others and the importance of self-improvement. |
4. To learn wisdom effectively, one must engage in broad learning and ask questions.
| Chinese | 博学之，审问之，慎思之，明辨之，笃行之。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·里仁》 |
| Pinyin | bó xué zhī, shěn wèn zhī, shèn sī zhī, míng biàn zhī, dǔ xíng zhī |
| Meaning | This outlines a comprehensive approach to learning and living wisely. |
5. Recognizing what you know and what you don’t is a fundamental aspect of wisdom.
| Chinese | 知之为知之，不知为不知，是知也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·为政》 |
| Pinyin | zhī zhī wéi zhī zhī, bù zhī wéi bù zhī, shì zhī yě |
| Meaning | This reflects the essence of genuine wisdom, which is rooted in honesty about one’s knowledge. |
6. A small man who studies alone without friends will remain narrow-minded and uninformed.
| Chinese | 独学而无友，则孤陋而寡闻。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | dú xué ér wú yǒu, zé gū lòu ér guǎ wén |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning and discussion with peers. |
7. Preparation leads to success; without it, actions may fail.
| Chinese | 凡事豫则立，不豫则废。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《中庸》 |
| Pinyin | fán shì yù zé lì, bù yù zé fèi |
| Meaning | This quote stresses the importance of being prepared in all endeavors. |
8. By the age of fifteen, I set my mind on learning; by thirty, I became self-reliant.
| Chinese | 吾十有五而志于学，三十而立，四十而不惑，五十而知天命，六十而耳顺，七十而从心所欲，不逾矩。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | wú shí yǒu wǔ ér zhì yú xué, sān shí ér lì, sì shí ér bù huò, wǔ shí ér zhī tiān mìng, liù shí ér ěr shùn, qī shí ér cóng xīn suǒ yù, bù yú jǔ |
| Meaning | This describes the stages of personal growth and wisdom throughout life. |
9. The way of heaven and earth can be summarized, reflecting the great wisdom of Confucius.
| Chinese | 天地之道，可一言而尽也：其为物不贰，则其生物不测。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《中庸》 |
| Pinyin | tiān dì zhī dào, kě yī yán ér jìn yě: qí wéi wù bù èr, zé qí shēng wù bù cè |
| Meaning | This reflects the enduring and complex laws that govern existence. |
10. The path of a gentleman is subtle but eventually becomes clear, unlike that of a small man.
| Chinese | 君子之道，暗然而日章；小人之道，的然而日亡。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《中庸》 |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ zhī dào, àn rán ér rì zhāng; xiǎo rén zhī dào, dīng rán ér rì wáng |
| Meaning | This contrasts the lasting virtues of a noble character with the superficiality of a lesser one. |
11. Governing with virtue, a superior man leads like the North Star, unifying many in life.
| Chinese | 为政以德，譬如北辰，居其所而众星共之。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | wèi zhèng yǐ dé, pì rú běi chén, jū qí suǒ ér zhòng xīng gòng zhī |
| Meaning | This illustrates the stability and influence of moral leadership in governance. |
12. If one can tolerate this behavior, then one must ask, what is truly wrong?
| Chinese | 是可忍也，孰不可忍也？ |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | shì kě rěn yě, shú bù kě rěn yě? |
| Meaning | This challenges the boundaries of tolerance, urging reflection on what is unacceptable. |
13. “Guan Sui” expresses balanced emotions, teaching wisdom in how to react emotionally.
| Chinese | 《关睢》，乐而不淫，哀而不伤。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | guān suī, lè ér bù yín, āi ér bù shāng |
| Meaning | This captures the balance between emotions, advocating moderation in feelings. |
14. A superior man should be cautious in words but prompt in actions.
| Chinese | 君子欲讷于言而敏于行。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | jūn zǐ yù nè yú yán ér mǐn yú xíng |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication coupled with prompt action. |
15. If substance exceeds style, one appears crude; if style exceeds substance, it leads to superficiality.
| Chinese | 质胜文则野，文胜质则史。文质彬彬，然后君子。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | zhì shèng wén zé yě, wén shèng zhì zé shǐ. wén zhì bīn bīn, rán hòu jūn zǐ |
| Meaning | This promotes a balance between inner quality and outward expression. |
16. The past cannot be salvaged, but one can still embark on a journey toward the future.
| Chinese | 往昔不可谏，来者犹可追。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | wǎng xī bù kě jiàn, lái zhě yóu kě zhuī |
| Meaning | This encourages focusing on future possibilities rather than lamenting past mistakes. |
Part 4. Famous Confucius Saying About Life
You can say that life is one of the main focus of Confucius when it comes to his quotes. It is easy to find a huge list of Confucius quotes about life with the main focus on moral values, ethics, and related ones. Let us share a few famous golden rules that still ring true today written by him.
1. “Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.”
| Chinese | 己所不欲，勿施于人。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·颜渊》 |
| Pinyin | Jǐ suǒ bù yù, wù shī yú rén. |
| Meaning | A true friend respects personal boundaries. This phrase emphasizes empathy and reciprocity in relationships. |
2. “What has been done does not need to be mentioned; what has been achieved does not need to be advised against.”
| Chinese | 成事不说，遂事不谏，既往不咎。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·八佾》 |
| Pinyin | Chéng shì bù shuō, suì shì bù jiàn, jì wǎng bù jiū. |
| Meaning | This saying reflects the three methods of dealing with past actions without digging into grievances. |
3. “Do not worry about poverty, but worry about inequality; do not worry about few, but worry about instability.”
| Chinese | 不患贫而患不均，不患寡而患不安。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·季氏》 |
| Pinyin | Bù huàn pín ér huàn bù jūn, bù huàn guǎ ér huàn bù ān. |
| Meaning | This phrase illustrates the need for stability in relationships, suggesting that not everyone understands this balance. |
4. “Failing to correct a mistake is the real mistake.”
| Chinese | 过而不改，是谓过矣。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语·卫灵公》 |
| Pinyin | Guò ér bù gǎi, shì wèi guò yǐ. |
| Meaning | Noting one’s failures without rectifying them leads to problems. |
5. “To study hard and forget to eat; to find joy in learning, unaware of aging.”
| Chinese | 发愤忘食，乐以忘忧，不知老之将至云尔。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Fā fèn wàng shí, lè yǐ wàng yōu, bù zhī lǎo zhī jiāng zhì yún er. |
| Meaning | Not everyone seeks joy through knowledge; this reflects the journey of learning, where a true friend inspires persistence. |
6. “Looking ahead seems to be in front, yet feels distant behind.”
| Chinese | 瞻之在前，忽焉在后。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Zhān zhī zài qián, hū yān zài hòu. |
| Meaning | This phrase highlights the depth of knowledge acquisition in a journey of education; not everyone values this endeavor. |
7. “Being eager and not ashamed to ask from those of lower status is called ‘cultured’.”
| Chinese | 敏而好学，不耻下问，是以谓之“文”也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Mǐn ér hào xué, bù chǐ xià wèn, shì yǐ wèi zhī “wén” yě. |
| Meaning | One should acknowledge lessons from all sources; this phrase encourages humility in learning. |
8. “Wealth enriches homes; virtue enriches oneself.”
| Chinese | 富润屋，德润身，心广体胖。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Fù rùn wū, dé rùn shēn, xīn guǎng tǐ pàng. |
| Meaning | Not everyone realizes that true prosperity comes from virtue. |
9. “I reflect on myself three times daily: Am I loyal in helping others? Am I trustworthy with friends? Have I practiced my studies?”
| Chinese | 吾日三省吾身。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Wú rì sān xǐng wú shēn. |
| Meaning | This phrase emphasizes self-reflection. |
10. “Respect the virtuous and strive in service to all.”
| Chinese | 贤贤易色；事父母能竭其力；事君能致身；与朋友交言而有信。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Xián xián yì sè; shì fù mǔ néng jié qí lì; shì jūn néng zhì shēn; yǔ péng yǒu jiāo yán ér yǒu xìn. |
| Meaning | Not everyone embraces the value of virtue; this saying reflects on the attributes of true friendship and service. |
11. “In the use of etiquette, harmony is most cherished.”
| Chinese | 礼之用，和为贵。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Lǐ zhī yòng, hé wéi guì. |
| Meaning | Not everyone understands the importance of harmony; this reflects a true friend’s commitment to peaceful coexistence. |
12. “Do not worry about others not understanding you; worry about your ability to understand others.”
| Chinese | 不患人之不已知，患不知人也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Bù huàn rén zhī bù yǐ zhī, huàn bù zhī rén yě. |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the importance of empathy; true friends strive to understand each other. |
13. “The noble man unites all, while the petty person groups only a few.”
| Chinese | 君子周而不比，小人比而不周。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Jūnzǐ zhōu ér bù bǐ, xiǎorén bì ér bù zhōu. |
| Meaning | Not everyone seeks broad connections; a true friend values inclusivity. |
14. “A person without trust cannot stand; it’s like a cart without its yoke.”
| Chinese | 人而无信，不知其可也。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Rén ér wú xìn, bù zhī qí kě yě. |
| Meaning | True friends build trust; this saying reminds us of the foundational role of integrity. |
15. “When a bird is about to die, its cry is sorrowful; when a person is dying, their words are kind.”
| Chinese | 鸟之将死，其鸣也哀；人之将死，其言也善。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Niǎo zhī jiāng sǐ, qí míng yě āi; rén zhī jiāng sǐ, qí yán yě shàn. |
| Meaning | A true friend speaks kindly even in hardship; this phrase highlights compassion at life’s end. |
16. “Worry not about lacking position, but about how to establish oneself.”
| Chinese | 不患无位，患所以立。 |
|---|---|
| Source | 《论语》 |
| Pinyin | Bù huàn wú wèi, huàn suǒ yǐ lì. |
| Meaning | Not everyone prioritizes capability; this saying emphasizes self-awareness in one’s journey. |
| Chinese | English |
|---|---|
| 生活其实很简单，但我们却坚持让它变得复杂。 | Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. |
| 万物皆有美，但并非人人都能看到。 | Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. |
| 尊重自己，别人才会尊重你。 | Respect yourself and others will respect you. |
| 在你开始复仇之旅之前，要先挖好两个坟墓。 | Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves. |
| 无论你去哪里，都要全心全意地去。 | Wherever you go, go with all your heart. |
| 时间如同河流中的水一样流逝。 | Time flows away like the water in the river. |
| 已经完成的事情，无需多言；已经过去的事情，无需责怪。 | Things that are done, it is needless to speak about. Things that are past, it is needless to blame. |
| 如果你犯错了却不去改正，这就是错误。 | If you make a mistake and do not correct it, this is called a mistake. |
| 我们有两次生命，第二次生命开始于我们意识到只有一次的时候。 | We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one. |
| 谦卑是所有美德的坚实基础。 | Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues. |
| 宁为有瑕疵的钻石，不为无瑕疵的卵石。 | Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without. |
| 一只狮子追着我爬上了树，我在树顶上欣赏了美景。 | A lion chased me up a tree, and I greatly enjoyed the view from the top. |
| What you don’t want done to yourself, do not do to others. | 什么你不希望发生在自己身上，就不要发生在别人身上。 |
| 如果我只教会学生四分之一的知识，我期望他自己能获得其他的三分之三，否则，我不愿意他做我的学生。 | If I give a student one-fourth of what he should know, I expect him to get the other three-fourths himself, otherwise, I do not want him as a student. |
| 不节俭的人将不得不受苦。 | He who will not economize will have to agonize. |
Part 4. Confucius Quotes on Education and Learning
There is no denying that every philosopher has a specific perspective on education and encourages people to share their thoughts. You can also find the same category of Confucius quotes that can help you understand the importance of education. Let us share a few of his famous quotes about education.
1. “The way of the university is to manifest virtue, to enrich the people, and to stop at the highest good.”
| Chinese | 大学之道，在明明德，在亲民，在止于至善。 |
|---|---|
| Source | Confucius, The Great Learning |
| Pinyin | Dàxué zhī dào, zài míng míng dé, zài qīn mín, zài zhǐ yú zhì shàn. |
| Meaning | This quote defines the purpose of the university as illuminating noble character, improving society, and striving for ultimate goodness. |
2. “Education knows no class distinctions.”
| Chinese | 有教无类 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Yǒu jiào wú lèi. |
| Meaning | This emphasizes that a university’s mission should encompass everyone, reflecting inclusivity in education. |
3. “Is it not a pleasure to learn and constantly practice what you have learned? Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar? Is it not gentlemanly not to take offense when others fail to appreciate you?”
| Chinese | 学而时习之，不亦说乎？有朋自远方来，不亦乐乎？人不知而不愠，不亦君子乎？ |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Xué ér shí xí zhī, bù yì shuō hū? Yǒu péng zì yuǎn fāng lái, bù yì lè hū? Rén bù zhī ér bù yùn, bù yì jūnzǐ hū? |
| Meaning | This quote underscores the joy of learning and camaraderie in the university setting, encouraging a mindset of openness and understanding. |
4. “The noble man does not seek to be full when eating, nor does he seek comfort when living. He is diligent in work and cautious in speech, adhering to the principles, which defines a good student.”
| Chinese | 君子食无求饱，居无求安，敏于事而慎于言，就有道而正焉，可谓好学也已。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Jūnzǐ shí wú qiú bǎo, jū wú qiú ān, mǐn yú shì ér shèn yú yán, jiù yǒu dào ér zhèng yān, kě wèi hǎo xué yě yǐ. |
| Meaning | This reflects the qualities of a diligent university student, stressing hard work, careful speech, and the desire to learn. |
5. “Revisiting the old to learn the new makes one a worthy teacher.”
| Chinese | 温故而知新，可以为师矣。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Wēn gù ér zhī xīn, kě yǐ wèi shī yǐ. |
| Meaning | Continuous learning is vital in a university environment, where revisiting past knowledge leads to new insights. |
6. “Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.”
| Chinese | 学而不思则罔，思而不学则殆。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Xué ér bù sī zé wǎng, sī ér bù xué zé dài. |
| Meaning | This highlights the importance of critical thinking in university studies, suggesting that both learning and reflection are essential for true understanding. |
7. “To silently remember what one learns, to persevere in study without weariness, and to teach others tirelessly.”
| Chinese | 默而识之，学而不厌，诲人不倦。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Mò ér shì zhī, xué ér bù yàn, huì rén bù juàn. |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the dedication to study and teaching found in a thriving university atmosphere. |
8. “Set on learning, one forgets food; delighted in inquiry, one overlooks aging.”
| Chinese | 发愤忘食，乐以忘忧，不知老之将至云尔。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Fā fèn wàng shí, lè yǐ wàng yōu, bù zhī lǎo zhī jiāng zhì yún ěr. |
| Meaning | This quote illustrates the passion for knowledge in a university, where the pursuit of learning can overshadow worldly concerns. |
9. “He teaches through four aspects: culture, conduct, loyalty, and trust.”
| Chinese | 子以四教：文、行、忠、信。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Zǐ yǐ sì jiào: wén, xíng, zhōng, xìn. |
| Meaning | This reflects the comprehensive education one receives in a university, focused on character development and ethical principles. |
10. “In public service, excel in scholarship; in study, excel in public service.”
| Chinese | 仕则优则学，学而优则仕。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Shì zé yōu zé xué, xué ér yōu zé shì. |
| Meaning | This illustrates the interconnectedness of academic excellence and public service, a principle that universities strive to promote. |
Part 5. Confucius Quotes About Kindness and Love
A major category of Confucius quotes belongs to love. According to him, nothing is better than pure love feelings, regardless of the conditions with whom you are in love. Confucius encouraged the people in his quotes to spend time with their loved ones. It is right to say that Confucius’s philosophy is based on family love and he encouraged people to spend time with their loved ones before it was too late. Let us share a few Confucius quotes about love.
1. “The way of the university is to manifest virtue, to enrich the people, and to stop at the highest good.”
| Chinese | 大学之道，在明明德，在亲民，在止于至善。 |
|---|---|
| Source | Confucius, The Great Learning |
| Pinyin | Dàxué zhī dào, zài míng míng dé, zài qīn mín, zài zhǐ yú zhì shàn. |
| Meaning | This highlights three methods: clarity of virtue, social improvement, and the pursuit of perfection. Without these, individuals may miss the matter at hand, making “digging two graves” a relevant metaphor. |
2. “Education knows no class distinctions.”
| Chinese | 有教无类 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Yǒu jiào wú lèi. |
| Meaning | This reflects the belief that learning should be accessible to everyone, emphasizing the importance of inclusion in education, irrespective of social status. |
3. “Is it not a pleasure to learn and constantly practice what you have learned? Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar? Is it not gentlemanly not to take offense when others fail to appreciate you?”
| Chinese | 学而时习之，不亦说乎？有朋自远方来，不亦乐乎？人不知而不愠，不亦君子乎？ |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Xué ér shí xí zhī, bù yì shuō hū? Yǒu péng zì yuǎn fāng lái, bù yì lè hū? Rén bù zhī ér bù yùn, bù yì jūnzǐ hū? |
| Meaning | The joy of learning reflects the journey of self-improvement. It encourages one to rise above grievances, as true is tested when faced with others’ misunderstandings. |
4. “The noble man does not seek to be full when eating, nor does he seek comfort when living. He is diligent in work and cautious in speech, adhering to the principles, which defines a good student.”
| Chinese | 君子食无求饱，居无求安，敏于事而慎于言，就有道而正焉，可谓好学也已。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Jūnzǐ shí wú qiú bǎo, jū wú qiú ān, mǐn yú shì ér shèn yú yán, jiù yǒu dào ér zhèng yān, kě wèi hǎo xué yě yǐ. |
| Meaning | This emphasizes the balance between diligence and restraint, encouraging individuals to reflect on the importance of character in their pursuit of knowledge. |
5. “Revisiting the old to learn the new makes one a worthy teacher.”
| Chinese | 温故而知新，可以为师矣。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Wēn gù ér zhī xīn, kě yǐ wèi shī yǐ. |
| Meaning | Continuous learning captures the essence of education, reminding us that understanding the past enhances our capability, much like learning from past grievances. |
6. “Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.”
| Chinese | 学而不思则罔，思而不学则殆。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Xué ér bù sī zé wǎng, sī ér bù xué zé dài. |
| Meaning | Emphasizing the balance of studying and reflecting conveys the critical nature of both for personal growth and practical wisdom. |
7. “To silently remember what one learns, to persevere in study without weariness, and to teach others tirelessly.”
| Chinese | 默而识之，学而不厌，诲人不倦。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Mò ér shì zhī, xué ér bù yàn, huì rén bù juàn. |
| Meaning | Consistent efforts in learning and teaching showcase the dual rewards of knowledge and benevolence. |
#8. “Set on learning, one forgets food; delighted in inquiry, one overlooks aging.”
| Chinese | 发愤忘食，乐以忘忧，不知老之将至云尔。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Fā fèn wàng shí, lè yǐ wàng yōu, bù zhī lǎo zhī jiāng zhì yún ěr. |
| Meaning | This quote captures the dedication to learning that can lead to neglect of physical needs, highlighting how the quest for knowledge often overshadows daily concerns. |
#9. “He teaches through four aspects: culture, conduct, loyalty, and trust.”
| Chinese | 子以四教：文、行、忠、信。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Zǐ yǐ sì jiào: wén, xíng, zhōng, xìn. |
| Meaning | This showcases a holistic approach to education, which ties back to the importance of trust and loyalty within friendships and relationships. |
#10. “In public service, excel in scholarship; in study, excel in public service.”
| Chinese | 仕则优则学，学而优则仕。 |
|---|---|
| Source | The Analects |
| Pinyin | Shì zé yōu zé xué, xué ér yōu zé shì. |
| Meaning | This highlights the reciprocity between service and scholarship, emphasizing how both areas enrich each other. |
| # | Quote |
|---|---|
| 1 | If you look into your own heart, and find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear? |
| 2 | A superior man is modest in his speech but exceeds in his actions. |
| 3 | They must often change who is constant in happiness or wisdom. |
| 4 | Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. |
| 5 | To love a thing means wanting it to live. |
| 6 | When music and courtesy are better understood and appreciated, there will be no war. |
| 7 | Men’s natures are alike; it is their habits that separate them. |
| 8 | By nature, men are nearly alike; by practice, they get to be wide apart. |
| 9 | It is not possible for one to teach others who cannot teach his own family. |
| 10 | Love thy neighbor as thyself: Do not do to others what thou wouldst not wish be done to thyself: Forgive injuries. |
| 11 | Can there be a love that does not make demands on its object? |
| 12 | It is man that makes truth great, and not truth that makes man great. |
| 13 | 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. |
| 14 | Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles. |
| 15 | Heaven means to be one with God. |
Part 6. FAQs
Q1. Who Was Confucius?
Confucius (551 BC – 479 BC), born as Kong Qiu and also known by his courtesy name Zhongni, was an ancient Chinese philosopher, educator, and thinker. He is the founder of Confucianism, a school of thought that has profoundly influenced Chinese culture for over two millennia. His teachings and ideas were recorded by his disciples in the Analects, which have had a lasting impact on the history, culture, education, and political systems of China and East Asia. Even today, Confucius’ philosophy continues to be widely studied and discussed.
Q2.What Is Confucius Most Famous Quote?
Undoubtedly, you can find a long list of Confucius quotes with a single search on the internet. But his most famous quote is “You are what you think,” which means that you are the exact person who thinks about yourself or others.
Q3. What Did Confucius Quotes About Love?
A variety of Confucius quotes about love can be found but the core concept of these quotes is to love yourself and your loved ones. Confucius always stated that you should cheer yourself up for the great skills and performances you have given on different occasions.
Part 7. Summary
By reading about Confucius quotes, saying or phrases, you might be aware of why these quotes are famous and followed at this time. You can easily understand the importance of these quotes for people who follow this philosopher. We recommend reading Confucius quotes, as they can inspire and motivate you to achieve your life goals and be good in your life.
So, what is your favorite quote from Confucius? You can tell me in the comment section below.
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Master’s degree in Education from the University of Plymouth, UK. He has 8 years of Chinese literacy, Chinese classic words, Chinese pinyin and other Chinese enlightenment and international Chinese online teaching experience. He is proficient in Chinese and English and has served as a teacher in the K12 education system overseas for many years.