Xian Wen

Yuan Xian asked Confucius about shame. Confucius said: "To hold office and receive salary when the state is well-governed is acceptable, but to do the same when the state is corrupt - that is shameful." Yuan Xian asked: "Can one without competitiveness, boastfulness, resentment or greed be considered benevolent?" Confucius replied: "Such restraint is commendable, but whether it constitutes benevolence I cannot determine." Confucius said: "A scholar-official who clings to domestic comforts is unworthy of the title." Confucius said: "In orderly times, speak and act with integrity; in chaotic times, maintain righteous conduct but speak with cautious humility." Confucius said: "Virtuous people necessarily speak well, but eloquent speakers may lack virtue. Benevolent people are courageous, but the brave may lack benevolence." When Nangong Kuo contrasted the violent deaths of Yi the archer and Ao the naval commander with Yu and Ji's agricultural rule, Confucius later remarked: "This man is a true gentleman! He truly values virtue!" Confucius said: "Some gentlemen lack......