Analects · Chapter
Book XV: Wei Ling Kung explained
In this chapter, Confucius addresses a wide range of topics including the nature of virtue, the conduct of the superior man, the importance of sincerity and reciprocity, and the principles of good governance.
What happens
In this chapter, Confucius addresses a wide range of topics including the nature of virtue, the conduct of the superior man, the importance of sincerity and reciprocity, and the principles of good governance. He emphasizes that the superior man is steadfast in adversity, seeks unity in knowledge, and values righteousness above all. The chapter also includes practical advice on speech, action, and friendship, as well as reflections on learning, self-cultivation, and the proper attitude towards wealth and poverty.
Themes in this chapter
The Superior Man
Extensive discussion on the qualities of the superior man: enduring want without license, considering righteousness essential, seeking within himself, and being dignified without wrangling.
Sincerity and Faithfulness
Tsze-chang's counsel emphasizes sincere words and honorable actions as essential for being appreciated everywhere.
Reciprocity
Confucius identifies 'reciprocity' as the one word to guide all life: 'What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.'
Learning and Knowledge
Confucius clarifies that his knowledge is not mere memorization but a unity all-pervading, and later advises that learning is better than idle thinking.
Characters to notice
- Confucius
Central figure; responds to questions and delivers teachings on virtue, governance, and the superior man.
- Tsze-lû
Questions Confucius about the superior man enduring want, showing dissatisfaction.
- Tsze-kung
Engages in dialogue about Confucius's method of learning and asks about a single word to guide life.
- Tsze-chang
Asks how to be appreciated everywhere and receives counsel on sincerity and careful conduct.
- Yen Yû
Asks about the government of a country, receiving detailed instructions on rites and music.
- Yen Hûi
Mentioned as Yen Yüan, asking about government, though not directly quoted.
Key passages
“The superior man may indeed have to endure want, but the mean man, when he is in want, gives way to unbridled license.”
A noble person can suffer hardship without losing integrity, whereas a petty person becomes reckless when in need.
Confucius responds to Tsze-lû's complaint about their dire circumstances.
“I seek a unity all-pervading.”
I do not just accumulate facts; I seek a single principle that connects everything.
Confucius explains his method of learning to Tsze-kung.
“What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.”
Treat others as you would not want to be treated yourself.
Confucius gives the golden rule of reciprocity to Tsze-kung.
“The superior man in everything considers righteousness to be essential.”
For the noble person, righteousness is the foundation of all actions.
Confucius defines the core principle of the superior man.