he to do with ceremonies? A man without charity in his heart what has he to do with music?[1]
Lin Fang inquired as to the prime essential in ceremonial observances. The Master said: Ah, that is a great question indeed! In all rites, simplicity is better than extravagance; in mourning for the dead, heartfelt sorrow is better than punctiliousness.
The Master said: The true gentleman is never contentious. If a spirit of rivalry is anywhere unavoidable, it is at a shooting-match. Yet even here he courteously salutes his opponents before taking up his position, and again when, having lost, he retires to drink the forfeit-cup. So that even when competing he remains a true gentleman.
It is the spirit of charity which makes a locality good to dwell in. He who selects a neighbourhood without regard to this quality cannot be considered wise.
Only he who has the spirit of goodness within him is really able either to love or to hate.
The princely man never for a single instant quits the path of virtue; in times of storm and stress he remains in it as fast as ever.
- ↑ A notable utterance, which may be commended to those who have been taught to regard Confucius as a man of ceremonies and outward show.
