What the superior man requires is just that in his words there may be nothing incorrect.'įan Ch'ih requested to be taught husbandry. 'Therefore a superior man considers it necessary that the names he uses may be spoken appropriately, and also that what he speaks may be carried out appropriately. When punishments are not properly awarded, the people do not know how to move hand or foot. When proprieties and music do not flourish, punishments will not be properly awarded. 'When affairs cannot be carried on to success, proprieties and music do not flourish. If language be not in accordance with the truth of things, affairs cannot be carried on to success. 'If names be not correct, language is not in accordance with the truth of things. The Master said, 'How uncultivated you are, Yu! A superior man, in regard to what he does not know, shows a cautious reserve.

The Master replied, 'What is necessary is to rectify names.' 'So! indeed!' said Tsze-lu. What will you consider the first thing to be done?' Tsze-lu said, 'The ruler of Wei has been waiting for you, in order with you to administer the government. As to those whom you do not know, will others neglect them?' The Master said, 'Employ first the services of your various officers, pardon small faults, and raise to office men of virtue and talents.'Ĭhung-kung said, 'How shall I know the men of virtue and talent, so that I may raise them to office?' He was answered, 'Raise to office those whom you know.

He requested further instruction, and was answered, 'Be not weary in these things.'Ĭhung-kung, being chief minister to the head of the Chi family, asked about government. The Master said, 'Go before the people with your example, and be laborious in their affairs.'

The antalects