“Reviewing the old as a means of understanding the present and future – such a person can be considered worthy as a teacher.”
The Analects conveys the sagely wisdom and virtue of Confucius. More than merely containing a series of wise statements, the Analects brings the hopes and dreams of one of history’s most virtuous yet relatable human beings to life. Out of all the wisdom texts, the Analects is the most difficult to understand, especially due to its non-linear structure. In no particular order, Confucius provides his students insights into true happiness, righteousness without facade, genuine political leadership, the difference between genuine and superficial morality, love that comes from the very depths of the heart in all types of relationships – all tied together in a way (dao) to live life spontaneously and beautiful and yet perfectly morally.
Yet, as Confucius insists, everything that he teaches is connected by a single strand!
Below, listen to the words of Master Dusk Lantern has he explores how each of these matters are indeed deeply connected.
“One who does not understand the nature of circumstances (ming) lacks the means of becoming a virtuous person (junzi); one who does not understand ritual propriety (li) lacks the means to make his stand; a person who does not understand words lacks the means of assessing others.”
Introduction to the Analects
Table of Contents for The Analects
Book One
Book Two
More podcasts on “The Analects” to come
Rekindled Radiance 