Mencius. Book 4, Part 1, Chapter 4.
Book 4, Le Low. Part 1.

1. Mencius said, "If a man love others, and no responsive attachment is shown to him, let him turn inward and examine his own benevolence. If he is trying to rule others, and his government is unsuccessful, let him turn inward and examine his wisdom. If he treats others politely, and they do not return his politeness, let him turn inward and examine his own feeling of respect.

2. "When we do not, by what we do, realize what we desire, we must turn inward, and examine ourselves in every point. When a man's person is correct, the whole empire will turn to him with recognition and submission.

3. "It is said in the 'Book of Poetry.'

'Be always studious to be in harmony with the ordinances of God,
And you will obtain much happiness.' "

Text source: The Works of Mencius. Translated by James Legge.

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China - Ancient - Philosophy - Chinese - Chinese translation