The Work of a Shi

Contents

Text

English translation

Original Chinese text

English translation

Prince Dian asked, “What should a shi devote himself to?” Mencius answered, “Esteeming one’s aspirations.” “What does it mean to esteem one’s aspirations?”

Original Chinese text

English translation

Mencius said, “It is simply benevolence and righteousness. To kill an innocent person is not benevolent; to take what is not yours is not righteous. Where should one dwell? In benevolence. Which road should one follow? Righteousness. To dwell in benevolence and walk by righteousness is to fulfill the work of a great person.”

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