30 Inspiring Confucius Quotes On Goodness, Forgiveness And Mercy
Last Updated on December 10, 2022
The ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius is known for his wisdom and teachings on topics such as ethics, education, and social harmony.
In this article, we will explore some of Confucius’ most inspiring quotes on forgiveness, goodness and mercy, and how they can guide us on the path to becoming better, kinder people.
From the importance of acting with integrity and compassion to the power of forgiveness and understanding, these timeless words of wisdom offer valuable insights on how to live a fulfilling and virtuous life.
Let’s take a closer look at some of Confucius’ most profound thoughts on goodness, forgiveness and mercy.
Confucius Quotes On Goodness And Mercy
1. “Love of goodness without love of learning degenerates into simple-mindedness. Love of knowledge without love of learning degenerates into utter lack of principle. Love of faithfulness without love of learning degenerates into injurious disregard of consequences. Love of uprightness without love of learning degenerates into harshness. Love of courage without love of learning degenerates into insubordination. Love of strong character without love of learning degenerates into mere recklessness.”
2. “The small man thinks that small acts of goodness are of no benefit, and does not do them; and that small deeds of evil do no harm, and does not refrain from them. Hence, his wickedness becomes so great that it cannot be concealed, and his guilt so great that it cannot be pardoned.”
3. “True goodness springs from a man’s own heart. All men are born good.”
4. “All men are born good.”
5. “It is goodness that gives to a neighborhood its beauty. One who is free to choose, yet does not prefer to dwell among the good – how can he be accorded the name of wise?”
6. “When you see a good man, think of emulating him; when you see a bad man, examine your own heart.”
7. “I have never seen one who really loves goodness or one who really hates wickedness. One who really loves goodness will not place anything above it. One who really hates wickedness will practice goodness in such a way that wickedness will have no chance to get at him. Is there anyone who has devoted his whole strength to doing good for even as long as a single day? I have not seen anyone give up such an attempt because he had not the strength to go on. Perhaps there is such a case, but I have never seen it.”
8. “Without Goodness one cannot enjoy enduring happiness.”
9. “Without goodness a man cannot endure adversity for long, nor can he enjoy prosperity for long. The good man is naturally at ease with goodness. The wise man cultivates goodness for its advantage.”
10. “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”
11. “Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart.”
12. “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.”
13. “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”
14. “True goodness springs from a man’s own heart. All men are born good.”
15. “The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute, the man who does not ask is a fool for life.”
16. “Act with kindness but do not expect gratitude.”
17. “Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without.”
18. “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.”
19. “A gentleman would be ashamed should his deeds not match his words.”
20. “When anger rises, think of the consequences.”
21. “To see what is right, and not to do it, is want of courage or of principle.”
22. “To be able under all circumstances to practice five things constitutes perfect virtue; these five things are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.”
23. “Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.”
24. “Love thy neighbour as thyself: Do not do to others what thou wouldst not wish be done to thyself: Forgive injuries. Forgive thy enemy, be reconciled to him, give him assistance, invoke God in his behalf.”
25. “Hold faithfulness and sincerity as first principles.”
26. “The more people know, the more they forgive.”
27. “Those who cannot forgive others break the bridge over which they themselves must pass.”
28. “The more you know yourself, the more you forgive yourself.”
29. “I could see peace instead of this.”
30. “The nobler sort of man emphasizes the good qualities in others, and does not accentuate the bad. The inferior does.”
By contemplating these profound quotes, we can gain valuable insights into how to live a good and virtuous life, and find the strength and guidance we need to overcome challenges and obstacles.
Whether you are facing a difficult decision, seeking to forgive someone who has hurt you, or simply looking for ways to improve yourself and the world around you, the words of Confucius offer a timeless source of guidance and inspiration.
