Analects · Chapter
Book XIX: Tsze-Chang explained
This chapter presents the teachings of Tsze-chang and Tsze-hsiâ, along with other disciples, on topics such as the conduct of the scholar, the nature of virtue, the importance of learning, and the proper attitude towards others.
What happens
This chapter presents the teachings of Tsze-chang and Tsze-hsiâ, along with other disciples, on topics such as the conduct of the scholar, the nature of virtue, the importance of learning, and the proper attitude towards others. It includes discussions on the superior man's behavior, the value of sincerity and confidence, and the limitations of lesser studies. The chapter also features Tsze-kung's defense of Confucius, comparing him to the sun and moon, and emphasizing his unattainable greatness.
Themes in this chapter
Learning and Knowledge
Tsze-hsiâ emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the pursuit of virtue through study and reflection.
The Superior Man
The chapter extensively discusses the characteristics and conduct of the superior man, including his bearing, speech, and treatment of others.
Sincerity and Faithfulness
Tsze-chang and Tsze-hsiâ highlight the need for sincerity and confidence in both personal conduct and interactions with others.
Characters to notice
- Tsze-chang
Opens the chapter with teachings on the scholar's duty, virtue, and the superior man's conduct.
- Tsze-hsiâ
Contributes several sayings on learning, the superior man, and the importance of confidence.
- Tsǎng Shǎn
Quotes the Master on mourning and filial piety, and advises on the role of a judge.
- Tsze-kung
Defends Confucius against criticism, using metaphors of the sun and moon, and explains the Master's learning.
- Tsze-yû
Criticizes Tsze-hsiâ's disciples for focusing on minor details, leading to a discussion on the essence of learning.
Key passages
“The scholar, trained for public duty, seeing threatening danger, is prepared to sacrifice his life. When the opportunity of gain is presented to him, he thinks of righteousness.”
A true scholar is ready to die for what is right and always considers righteousness before profit.
Tsze-chang's opening statement on the scholar's duty.
“The superior man honours the talented and virtuous, and bears with all. He praises the good, and pities the incompetent.”
The superior man respects the worthy and is tolerant of everyone, praising the good and showing compassion for the less capable.
Tsze-chang's response to Tsze-hsiâ's advice on association.
“The faults of the superior man are like the eclipses of the sun and moon. He has his faults, and all men see them; he changes again, and all men look up to him.”
The superior man's mistakes are as visible as an eclipse, but when he corrects them, everyone admires him.
Tsze-kung's metaphor for the transparency and redemption of the superior man.
“Our Master cannot be attained to, just in the same way as the heavens cannot be gone up to by the steps of a stair.”
Confucius is as unreachable as the sky, impossible to ascend by any steps.
Tsze-kung's assertion of Confucius's supreme greatness.