Quotes by Confucius

Faced with what is right, to leave it undone shows a lack of courage.

Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.

Death and life have their determined appointments riches and honors depend upon heaven.

If we don't know life, how can we know death?

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest Second, by imitation, which is easiest and third by experience, which is the bitterest.

There are three methods to gaining wisdom. The first is reflection, which is the highest. The second is limitation, which is the easiest. The third is experience, which is the bitterest.

Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.

If you look into your own heart, and you find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear?

It is more shameful to distrust our friends than to be deceived by them.

Never contract friendship with a man that is not better than thyself.