Analects · Chapter
Book XVII: Yang Ho explained
This chapter opens with Yang Ho's attempt to meet Confucius, leading to a discussion on the duty of the wise to serve in government.
What happens
This chapter opens with Yang Ho's attempt to meet Confucius, leading to a discussion on the duty of the wise to serve in government. Confucius then reflects on human nature and the power of practice, and later engages with disciples on topics such as the value of learning, the importance of studying the Odes, the nature of perfect virtue, and the proper conduct of mourning. The chapter also includes Confucius's criticism of those who lack virtue, his discussion of the superior man's hatreds, and his lament on the difficulty of dealing with women and servants.
Themes in this chapter
Learning and Knowledge
Confucius emphasizes the importance of learning to avoid becloudings and praises the study of the Odes for self-cultivation and social harmony.
Virtuous Governance
The chapter opens with Yang Ho's challenge to Confucius about serving in office, and later Confucius discusses the qualities needed for a ruler and the dangers of serving unworthy princes.
Ritual and Propriety
Confucius discusses the true meaning of propriety beyond mere gems and silk, and the importance of mourning rites in maintaining social order.
The Superior Man
The chapter explores the characteristics of the superior man, including his hatreds, his esteem for righteousness over valour, and his conduct in various situations.
Characters to notice
- Confucius
Central figure throughout; discusses governance, learning, virtue, and propriety.
- Yang Ho
Seeks to meet Confucius and persuades him to consider entering office.
- Tsze-lû
Questions Confucius about visiting rebellious officials and asks about the superior man's esteem for valour.
- Tsze-kung
Inquires about the superior man's hatreds and expresses his own; also asks about Confucius's silence.
- Tsze-yû
Defends his use of music and singing in Wû-ch’ǎng, recalling Confucius's teaching.
- Tsâi Wo
Questions the three years' mourning, prompting Confucius's criticism.
- Tsze-chang
Asks about perfect virtue and receives the five practices.
- Po-yü
Advised by Confucius to study the Châu-nan and Shâo-nan.
Key passages
“By nature, men are nearly alike; by practice, they get to be wide apart.”
People are born with similar natures, but their habits and experiences make them very different.
Confucius emphasizes the role of practice in shaping character.
“To be able to practise five things everywhere under heaven constitutes perfect virtue.”
Perfect virtue consists of practicing five things universally: gravity, generosity, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.
Confucius outlines the five virtues that lead to perfect virtue.
“The Odes serve to stimulate the mind. They may be used for purposes of self-contemplation. They teach the art of sociability. They show how to regulate feelings of resentment.”
The Book of Poetry is valuable for inspiring thought, self-reflection, social skills, and managing emotions.
Confucius highlights the multifaceted benefits of studying the Odes.
“Does Heaven speak? The four seasons pursue their courses, and all things are continually being produced, but does Heaven say anything?”
Heaven does not speak, yet it governs the seasons and the growth of all things; similarly, the sage teaches by example, not by words.
Confucius explains that true influence comes from action, not speech.
