Why a Noble Person Does Not Farm

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English translation

Original Chinese text

English translation

Gongsun Chou asked, “The Book of Poetry says, ‘He does not eat the food of idleness.’ Why, then, do gentlemen eat without farming?”

Original Chinese text

English translation

Mencius replied, “When a gentleman lives in a state and its ruler employs him, he can bring stability, prosperity, honor, and dignity. When the younger men study under him, they learn filial devotion, respect for elders, loyalty, and trustworthiness. What contribution could be greater than this?”

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