Confucius (551–479 BCE) is one of the most influential philosophers in history, shaping Chinese thought, ethics, and governance. The First Ten Books, derived from The Analects, present his teachings on virtue, governance, self-cultivation, and the role of relationships in society. These books are structured as dialogues, capturing conversations between Confucius and his disciples, covering themes of morality, wisdom, and leadership.
Let’s explore…
Book 1: The foundations of learning and virtue
The opening book sets the tone for Confucius’ philosophy, emphasizing the joy of learning, the importance of friendships among like-minded individuals, and the necessity of self-improvement. He introduces the idea of the junzi (noble or superior man) who seeks wisdom and virtue over material gain.
One of the most famous lines in this section states:
«To learn and at due times to repeat what one has learned, is that not after all a pleasure?»
This highlights the lifelong pursuit of knowledge as a joyful and necessary endeavor. The book also underscores the importance of being slow to speak but diligent in action, indicating that character is built through deeds rather than words.
Book 2: Government and leadership
In this book, Confucius explores the qualities of a good ruler. He emphasizes leading by example rather than by force, stating:
«If you govern the people by laws and keep them in order by penalties, they will avoid wrongdoing but have no sense of shame. If you govern them by virtue and keep them in order by li (rituals and propriety), they will have a sense of shame and will correct themselves.»
This teaching is foundational to Confucian political philosophy, advocating for moral leadership rather than authoritarian rule. The ruler should embody righteousness and cultivate virtue in the people through proper rituals and ethical conduct.
Book 3: Ritual and propriety (Li)
Ritual (li) plays a significant role in Confucian thought. This book discusses the importance of ceremonies, traditions, and respectful conduct in maintaining harmony within society. Rituals are not mere formalities but expressions of sincerity and moral cultivation.
Confucius stresses that external actions must reflect inner virtue:
«Respect without li is tiresome; caution without li is timidity; boldness without li is recklessness; straightforwardness without li is rudeness.»
Thus, li serves as a guiding principle to balance virtues, ensuring that they do not become extreme or destructive.
Book 4: The cultivation of goodness (Ren)
Ren (humaneness or benevolence) is at the heart of Confucian ethics. This book delves into how individuals can cultivate goodness through self-discipline, kindness, and humility.
A central teaching states:
«The man of ren desires to establish others in what he himself wishes to establish and to enlarge others in what he himself wishes to enlarge.»
This emphasizes empathy and altruism, encouraging people to treat others as they wish to be treated—a principle that parallels the Golden Rule in Western philosophy.
Book 5: The characteristics of the junzi
The junzi (noble person) serves as an ethical ideal in Confucian thought. In contrast to the xiaoren (small or petty person), the junzi embodies wisdom, courage, and righteousness.
Key traits of the junzi include:
- Integrity: Acts with sincerity and honesty.
- Humility: Does not boast of achievements.
- Self-improvement: Constantly reflects on personal actions and corrects mistakes.
Confucius states:
«The superior man is modest in speech but exceeds in his actions.»
This teaching stresses the importance of humility and demonstrating virtue through behavior rather than mere words.
Book 6: Wisdom and practicality
This book discusses how wisdom (zhi) is not just theoretical knowledge but an applied, practical skill. Confucius values experience, careful judgment, and the ability to recognize virtue in others.
A particularly striking lesson is:
«The wise delight in water; the benevolent delight in mountains. The wise are active; the benevolent are still. The wise are happy; the benevolent live long.»
Here, Confucius metaphorically contrasts the dynamic, adaptable nature of wisdom with the steady, enduring quality of benevolence.
Book 7: Confucius’ reflections on himself
This book is more introspective, where Confucius discusses his own journey of self-improvement. He reflects on the different stages of his life:
«At fifteen, I set my heart on learning. At thirty, I stood firm. At forty, I had no doubts. At fifty, I knew the mandate of Heaven. At sixty, my ear was attuned. At seventy, I followed my heart’s desires without overstepping the bounds of propriety.»
This passage serves as a guide to the natural progression of wisdom and self-cultivation over a lifetime.
Book 8: Moderation and balance
Confucius emphasizes that balance is crucial in all aspects of life. Extreme behavior, whether in emotions, governance, or personal ambitions, leads to instability.
He warns:
«Excess is as bad as deficiency.»
This echoes the idea that neither indulgence nor extreme austerity is desirable—virtue lies in moderation.
Book 9: The limits of knowledge and the importance of inquiry
Confucius acknowledges that true wisdom comes from recognizing one’s ignorance and continuously seeking knowledge. He encourages open-mindedness and a willingness to learn from others.
He famously states:
«To know what you know and to know what you do not know, that is true knowledge.»
This passage advocates intellectual humility and the continuous pursuit of self-improvement.
Book 10: Ethical conduct in daily life
The final book focuses on practical applications of ethical living. Confucius discusses the importance of sincerity in one’s actions, respect for others, and the role of discipline in maintaining virtue.
A crucial lesson from this section is:
«When at home, be respectful; when in society, be courteous; when dealing with others, be honest.»
This reinforces the Confucian ideal of consistency in character, whether in private or public life.
Confucius’ teachings, though rooted in ancient China, remain profoundly relevant today. His emphasis on moral leadership, ethical self-cultivation, and social harmony offers timeless guidance on how to lead a meaningful life. His vision of a just society, where individuals act with virtue and leaders govern through moral authority, continues to influence political philosophy and personal ethics worldwide.
By studying The First Ten Books, we gain insight into the principles of wisdom, integrity, and humaneness—virtues that remain essential for personal and societal well-being. As Confucius himself reminds us:
«It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.»
The path to virtue and wisdom is a lifelong journey, and Confucius’ words continue to illuminate the way.
DREIESKIVA|Roald Kvam 
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