Xun Kuang

Thus, that one can find no place to walk through the breadth of the earth is not because the earth is not tranquil but because the danger to every step of the traveler lies generally with words.

I once tried standing up on my toes to see far out in the distance, but I found that I could see much farther by climbing to a high place.

There are successful scholars, public-spirited scholars, upright scholars, cautious scholars, and those who are merely petty men.

When you concentrate on agriculture and industry and are frugal in expenditures, Heaven cannot impoverish your state.

Whether the gentleman is capable or not, he is loved all the same; conversely the petty man is loathed all the same.

The petty man is eager to make boasts, yet desires that others should believe in him. He enthusiastically engages in deception, yet wants others to have affection for him. He conducts himself like an animal, yet wants others to think well of him.

Sacrifices are concerned with the feelings of devotion and longing.

If the blood humor is too strong and robust, calm it with balance and harmony.

A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a liking for beautiful sights and sounds. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to immorality and lack of restriction, and any ritual principles and propriety will be abandoned.

I once tried thinking for an entire day, but I found it less valuable than one moment of study.

The coming of honor or disgrace must be a reflection of one's inner power.

A person is born with feelings of envy and hate. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to violence and crime, and any sense of loyalty and good faith will be abandoned.