The Art of Balanced Living: Wisdom from Confucius on Humility and Contentment

1·15 Zi Gong said, “How is it to be poor without flattery (1) and rich without arrogance (2)?” The Master said, “That is good. It is better to be poor and happy (3) and rich and courteous.” Zi Gong said, “The Book of Songs says, ‘Like cutting and like polishing! Now you can talk about the Book of Songs. You can tell the past and know the future (6).”

[Notes]

(1)谄: pronounced chǎn, meaning to flatter or ingratiate oneself.

(2)何如: ‘How about…’ in the Analects can be translated as ‘how is it?’

(3)贫而乐: one version reads ”贫而乐道.”

(4) As if cutting and polishing, as if carving and grinding: These two phrases are found in the Book of Songs, “The Wind of Wei, Qiao.” There are two interpretations: one says that the process of cutting and polishing refers to the processing of four different materials: bone, ivory, jade, and stone.

(5) Ci: the name of Zi Gong, Confucius called his students by their names.

(6) “To know the future by learning from the past”: zhū, “all”; wǎng, “the past”; lái, “the future.”

Translation

Zigong said, “How is it to be poor and not to flatter, and rich and not to be arrogant?” Confucius said, “This is also acceptable. But it is not as good as being poor and willing to speak the truth, and being rich and having good manners.” Zigong said, “The Book of Songs says, ‘Like treating bones, horns, ivory, and jade, polish it and carve it,’ is this what you mean?” Confucius said, “Zigong, you can understand what I have not said from what I have already said, and you can deduce the meaning of one thing from another. I can talk to you about the Book of Songs.”

[Commentary]

Confucius hoped that his disciples and all people could achieve the ideal state of being poor but happy in the way of the Dao and rich but respectful of others. In this way, society could maintain stability, regardless of whether people were rich or poor. Confucius was satisfied with Zi Gong. In this dialogue, it can be seen that Zi Gong was able to think independently and draw inferences, and thus received praise from Confucius. This is a prominent feature of Confucius’ educational philosophy.

Understanding the Dialogue

In the Analects, Zigong asks Confucius, “How is it to be poor and not to flatter, and rich and not to be arrogant?” Confucius responds, “This is also acceptable. But it is not as good as being poor and willing to speak the truth, and being rich and having good manners.” This exchange highlights two crucial virtues: integrity and humility.

Integrity in Poverty: Confucius emphasizes that even in poverty, one should not resort to flattery or deceit to gain favor. True contentment comes from maintaining one’s principles and speaking the truth.

Humility in Wealth: Conversely, wealth should not breed arrogance. Confucius advocates for maintaining good manners and respect for others, regardless of one’s financial status.

The Analogy from the Book of Songs

Zigong references a passage from the Book of Songs, “Like treating bones, horns, ivory, and jade, polish it and carve it.” This analogy compares personal development to the meticulous process of crafting valuable materials. Just as these materials require careful cutting and polishing, individuals must continuously refine their character.

Confucius praises Zigong’s ability to infer deeper meanings, saying, “Zigong, you can understand what I have not said from what I have already said, and you can deduce the meaning of one thing from another.” This interaction showcases Confucius’ educational philosophy, which values independent thinking and the ability to draw inferences.

Applying Confucian Wisdom to Modern Life

The principles discussed by Confucius and Zigong are highly relevant today. Here are some ways to integrate this wisdom into our daily lives:

Practice Integrity: Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, prioritize honesty and authenticity over flattery and manipulation.

Cultivate Humility: Success and wealth should not lead to a sense of superiority. Treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status.

Continuous Self-Improvement: Like the careful polishing of jade, strive to refine your character and skills. Seek feedback and be open to growth and learning.