Confucius on True Wisdom: Listening and Learning for Real Knowledge

7·28 The Master said, “There are those who make things up without knowing them. I do not do that. I hear much, and choose what is good and follow it. I see much, and understand it. This is the next best thing to knowing.”

[Translation]

Confucius said, “There are those who make things up without knowing them. I do not do that. I hear much, and choose what is good and follow it. I see much, and understand it. This is the next best thing to knowing.”

[Commentary]

In this chapter, Confucius proposes that one should listen and see more, and study hard, in order to learn about things that one does not know. This is his own requirement, and he also asks his students to do the same.

In a notable passage, Confucius says: “There are people who might create ideas out of nothing despite their ignorance. I do not follow this practice. Instead, one should listen widely, choose the good, and follow it. Observing and remembering what one sees is a more refined approach to acquiring knowledge.”

Here, Confucius differentiates between those who invent ideas without a solid understanding and those who seek knowledge through diligent study. He encourages us to actively engage with the world around us by listening to various perspectives and carefully selecting the valuable insights we encounter. This method of learning is considered a higher form of wisdom.

Confucius’s advice is twofold. First, he criticizes the notion of creating ideas without a sound basis. This reflects a broader critique of superficial or unfounded intellectual efforts. Instead, he advocates for a more thoughtful and informed approach to learning.

Second, he highlights the importance of continuous learning through exposure to new ideas and experiences. By listening attentively and observing keenly, individuals can build a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the world. This approach is deemed a “next-level” wisdom, indicating that it is a more advanced and desirable form of knowledge acquisition.

This teaching not only reflects Confucius’s own intellectual rigor but also sets a standard for his students and followers. It is a call to embrace a methodical approach to learning, one that values patience, discernment, and an open mind. By focusing on the good and remembering our observations, we can cultivate a deeper and more meaningful understanding of life and its complexities.