Quote #8

Men all say, 'We are wise'; but being driven forward and taken in a net, a trap, or a pitfall, they know not how to escape. Men all say, 'We are wise'; but happening to choose the course of the Mean, they are not able to keep it for a round month.

More from Confucius

  1. There is no body but eats and drinks. But they are few who can distinguish flavors.
  2. The kingdom, its states, and its families, may be perfectly ruled; dignities and emoluments may be declined; naked weapons may be trampled …
  3. I know how it is that the path of the Mean is not walked in - The knowing go beyond it, and the stupid do not come up to it. I know how it …
  4. To show forbearance and gentleness in teaching others; and not to revenge unreasonable conduct - this is the energy of southern regions, an…
  5. Perfect is the virtue which is according to the Mean! Rare have they long been among the people, who could practice it!
  6. The superior man accords with the course of the Mean. Though he may be all unknown, unregarded by the world, he feels no regret - It is onl…
  7. Let the states of equilibrium and harmony exist in perfection, and a happy order will prevail throughout heaven and earth, and all things w…
  8. The way which the superior man pursues, reaches wide and far, and yet is secret. Common men and women, however ignorant, may intermeddle wi…

All Confucius quotes