Discovering Joy in Learning: Insights from Confucius

The Master said (1): “Is it not a pleasure to learn (2) and then practice (3) it from time to time? Is it not a joy to have friends (4) come from afar? When people do not understand (7), but do not get upset (8), is he not a gentleman (9)?

[Notes]

(1) Zi: In ancient China, this was a respectful term for men of status and learning, and sometimes for men in general. In the Analects, the word “Zi” refers to Confucius.

(2) Xue: The “Xue” Confucius is talking about here refers mainly to learning the traditional cultural classics of the Western Zhou Dynasty, such as rites, music, poetry and books.

(3) Practice at regular intervals: In the Zhou and Qin dynasties, the word “shi” was used as an adverb, meaning “at a certain time” or “at the appropriate time.” However, Zhu Xi in the “Commentary on the Analects” explained “shi” as “often.” “Xi” refers to practicing rites and music; reviewing poetry and books. It also has the meaning of reviewing, practicing, and practicing.

(4) Say: The sound is “yue,” which means “joyful” or “happy.”

(5) You have friends: one version of the text reads “friends.” The old commentary says, “Friends are those who study under the same teacher,” that is, people who share the same ideals.

(6) Happy: this is different from saying. The old commentary says that while joy is felt in the heart, happiness is seen on the outside.

(7) People don’t know: this sentence is incomplete, not saying what people don’t know. It lacks an object. Generally speaking, to know is to understand. People don’t know means that others don’t understand you.

(8)愠: yùn, angry, resentful.

(9)君子: The gentleman in the Analects sometimes refers to a person of virtue, and sometimes to a person of position. Here it refers to a person with a noble character in Confucius’ ideal.

Translation

Confucius said, “Isn’t it pleasant to study and then review and practice often? Isn’t it pleasant when people with the same aspirations come from afar? If people don’t understand me, I don’t resent or get angry. Am I not also a virtuous gentleman?”

[Commentary]

The famous Song Dynasty scholar Zhu Xi spoke highly of this chapter, saying that it is ‘the gateway to the Dao and the foundation of virtue.’ These three sentences in this chapter are very familiar to people. The traditional interpretation is that after learning, if you often review and practice, aren’t you happy? The three sentences each have a different meaning, and there is no coherence between the sentences. However, some people think that this interpretation does not conform to the original meaning, pointing out that “learning” here does not mean learning, but refers to a doctrine or proposition; “time” cannot be interpreted as often, but as the meaning of the times or society; “practice” is not a review, but a use, extended to adoption. Moreover, these three sentences are not isolated, but are coherent with each other. The meaning of these three sentences is: If one’s own doctrine is adopted by society, then one is very happy; if not, one is happy that many friends agree with one’s doctrine and come to discuss problems with one; if not even that, one is happy that people do not understand one, and one does not resent it. (See “Qilu Journal” 1986, No. 6) This explanation is self-evident and makes sense, and it can be used as a reference for readers to understand the content of this chapter.

In addition, in the explanation of the phrase “people do not know, but they do not get angry,” some people also believe that there is no object after “people do not know,” so what do people not know? At that time, because Confucius had a specific environment in which to speak, he did not need to say what he knew, and others could understand it, but he left a mystery for later generations. Some say that this sentence is a continuation of the previous sentence. A friend from afar came to me for advice, and I told him, but he still didn’t understand. So, “people don’t know” means “people don’t know what I’m talking about.” This explanation seems a bit far-fetched.

In short, this chapter proposes that learning should be a pleasure, and that one should not be upset if people don’t understand. It reflects Confucius’s ideas of never being tired of learning, never tiring of teaching, focusing on self-cultivation, and being strict with oneself. These ideas and propositions can be seen in many places in the Analects, which helps to gain a deeper understanding of the content of the first chapter.

Confucius, one of the most influential philosophers in Chinese history, imparted wisdom that continues to resonate globally. His teachings, encapsulated in “The Analects,” offer timeless advice on personal development, social harmony, and ethical conduct. One of his most celebrated passages provides profound insights into the joys of learning, the value of camaraderie, and the grace of maintaining composure amidst misunderstanding.

The Joy of Learning and Practicing

Confucius opens with a powerful question: “Is it not a pleasure to learn and then practice it from time to time?” In ancient China, “learning” referred to more than just acquiring knowledge. It encompassed the study of traditional cultural classics, such as rites, music, poetry, and books from the Western Zhou Dynasty. This comprehensive education was considered essential for personal and societal development.

Confucius emphasizes not just learning, but the importance of regular practice and review. This process of continual refinement is crucial for truly understanding and embodying the lessons learned. It is through this repeated practice that one finds joy and fulfillment, as it leads to mastery and deeper appreciation of the material.

The Value of Like-Minded Companionship

Next, Confucius speaks to the joy of companionship: “Is it not a joy to have friends come from afar?” Here, “friends” are not merely social acquaintances but individuals who share the same values and aspirations. These are people who study under the same teachings and strive for similar ideals. The arrival of such friends brings immense joy because it provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, deepen understanding, and reinforce shared values.

This fellowship fosters a supportive community where learning and personal growth are encouraged. It highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who inspire and challenge each other to strive for greater heights.

Grace Under Misunderstanding

Finally, Confucius addresses a scenario that many find challenging: being misunderstood. He asks, “When people do not understand, but do not get upset, is he not a gentleman?” This rhetorical question underscores the virtue of maintaining composure and grace when others fail to understand or appreciate one’s perspective.

In Confucian philosophy, a “gentleman” is someone of noble character and moral integrity. Such a person remains calm and untroubled even when faced with misunderstanding or criticism. This reflects a high level of self-cultivation, where one’s sense of worth is not dependent on external validation but on inner conviction and ethical conduct.

Modern Relevance

Confucius’s teachings remain remarkably relevant today. In a world that often prioritizes quick success and external achievements, his emphasis on the joy of learning, the value of genuine companionship, and the grace of being unperturbed by misunderstanding offers a refreshing perspective.

For modern readers, these lessons can inspire a more reflective and fulfilling approach to life. Embracing lifelong learning, seeking out meaningful connections, and maintaining equanimity in the face of challenges are timeless strategies for personal and social well-being.

By revisiting these ancient insights, we can cultivate a more balanced and thoughtful approach to our personal and professional lives. Confucius’s wisdom encourages us to find joy in the journey of learning, appreciate the value of true friendship, and embody grace under pressure—principles that are as relevant now as they were over two millennia ago.