Confucius Wisdom Quotations

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.

To know what you know and what you do not know, that is true knowledge.

Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?

Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.

To know that you know, and to know that you don't know - that is the real wisdom.

To know that you know, and to know that you don't know - that is real wisdom.

For one word a man is often deemed to be wise, and for one word he is often deemed to be foolish. We should be careful indeed what we say.

To be poor without murmuring is difficult. To be rich without being proud is easy.

Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.

To understand yourself is the key to wisdom.

Three things cannot long be hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.

He who knows all the answers has not been asked all the questions.

The man of wisdom is never of two minds; the man of benevolence never worries; the man of courage is never afraid.

The beginning of wisdom is to call things by their proper name.

The man of wisdom has no perplexity; the man of humanity has no worry; the man of courage has no fear.