Personal Library -- The Analects

Author: Confucius (Spring and Autumn Period), edited and annotated by Liu Qi
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2004-07-01
Features: The idea of a gentleman cultivating himself, managing the family, governing the state, and bringing peace to the world is a key concept advocated by Confucianism. To be able to benefit all under heaven with just half of the Analects, it is evident of the profound depth and practicality of the Analects in practice. In fact, in Confucius's heart, he always harbored a very beautiful aspiration—to establish a great "" society where the widowed, widowers, orphans, and the childless are all provided for. Simply put, this is very similar to the communist society Marx sought to build, just as moving as the idea of children planting the sun. To realize this ideal, he traveled tirelessly between various states in his advanced years. Although his ideal was destined to be a distant dream in his time, his great spirit of "knowing what is impossible but still striving for it" inspired countless later generations. The wisdom he gained during his travels was recorded by his students in the Analects, influencing China for thousands of years. Such achievements may have been beyond his expectations. The Analects was approximately compiled in the early Warring States period, recording many of Confucius's brilliant thoughts and aspirations. The language is simple and easy to understand, and some content is also highly entertaining, often making you chuckle. Upon closing the book and reflecting, you will find yourself enriched with infinite wisdom and joy.