Analects

Author: Compiled by the Press
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-12-01
Features: The Analects is the Bible of the Chinese people, the cradle of traditional Chinese culture, and the crystallization of the wisdom of the Chinese nation. This book adopts the authoritative version of Zhonghua Book Company, with the original text accompanied by colloquial translations. The 64-page format is convenient for carrying and reading; the two-color printing reflects the simplicity and elegance of the classic. The Analects is a collection of-style philosophical essays. As early as the late Spring and Autumn period, when Confucius set up a lecture platform to teach, the main content of its core material had already been initially created. After Confucius's death, his disciples and later generations passed down his teachings from generation to generation, gradually recording these oral memorized sayings and deeds, and eventually compiling them into a book in the early years of the Warring States period, hence the name "" (discourse). The Analects primarily records the words and deeds of Confucius and his disciples, hence the name "" (words). Confucian thought takes establishing oneself as the starting point, and the primary condition for a person to establish themselves in the world is to possess the "gentleman" () character. A gentleman possesses a compassionate heart, self-respect, and self-discipline; is consistent in words and deeds; actively strives forward, possessing both virtue and talent; diligently studies and emphasizes practice; is content with poverty and enjoys the way of life, strictly adhering to justice, and so on; consistently upholding the way of human interaction, adhering to different ethical relationships, and building harmonious and friendly interpersonal relationships and social environments. This book is based on the authoritative version and has engaged Zhang Yanying to provide clear and colloquial translations. The text is presented in parallel with the original and arranged in a double-page layout to provide the most convenient reading experience for readers.