Confucius on Teaching: Embracing Patience and Perseverance

7·2 The Master said, “To know without speaking (1), to learn without weariness, to teach without tiring (2), what have I to do with it (3)?”

[Annotation]

(1) To know without speaking: to remember.

(2) To teach without tiring: to teach.

(3) What have I to do with it: What is difficult for me?

Translation:

Confucius said, “To silently remember (what one has learned), to learn without feeling bored, to teach without feeling tired, what difficulty can there be for me?”

Commentary:

This chapter follows on from the previous chapter and continues to discuss the methods of learning. In the previous chapter, he said that he “relied on others’ work and did not create his own, trusted in the old and loved the ancient,” but in this chapter he said that he “learned without feeling bored and taught without feeling tired”; this reflects a side of Confucius’s educational methods. This has had a great influence on the formation and development of Chinese educational thought, to the extent that even today we are still promoting his educational theory.

Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, has long been a guiding light in education and personal development. One of his notable teachings is encapsulated in a profound quote that reflects his deep commitment to learning and teaching. The quote, “默而识之，学而不厌，诲人不倦，何有于我哉？” can be translated to: “Silently remember what you have learned, never grow tired of learning, and teach others without fatigue—what difficulty could there be for me in this?”

This statement reveals Confucius’s dedication to the processes of acquiring and imparting knowledge. Let’s break down the quote and understand its implications.

Understanding Confucius’s Teaching Philosophy

Silently Remember What You Have Learned:

Confucius emphasizes the importance of internalizing knowledge quietly. This suggests a methodical and introspective approach to learning. Rather than flaunting knowledge or seeking immediate recognition, one should focus on deeply understanding and remembering it.

Never Grow Tired of Learning:

A key aspect of Confucian thought is the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Confucius advises that one should maintain enthusiasm for learning throughout life. This reflects the belief that education is a continuous journey, not a destination.

Teach Others Without Fatigue:

Teaching is presented as a noble and fulfilling endeavor. Confucius highlights the need for patience and persistence in educating others. The act of teaching should be done with dedication and without showing signs of weariness.

The Impact on Chinese Educational Thought

Confucius’s educational philosophy has had a profound influence on Chinese culture and education. His ideas continue to be relevant even today, shaping the way knowledge is imparted and absorbed. By advocating for patience in teaching and perseverance in learning, Confucius set a standard that values both the teacher’s and learner’s dedication.

The teaching methods endorsed by Confucius also emphasize the importance of moral education. He believed that education was not just about intellectual growth but also about cultivating virtue. This holistic approach is a cornerstone of Confucian thought and continues to influence educational practices in China and beyond.

Modern Relevance

In today’s fast-paced world, Confucius’s advice remains pertinent. The virtues of patience and dedication in learning and teaching are universally applicable. For educators, his words serve as a reminder to approach teaching with passion and resilience. For learners, they reinforce the idea that true understanding and mastery require ongoing effort and commitment.

In conclusion, Confucius’s teaching on the enduring nature of learning and the patience required in teaching offers timeless wisdom. His philosophy encourages us to embrace education as a lifelong endeavor, fostering both personal growth and the development of others.