Analects 13.16: 子路 (Zi Lu)
Confucius and his disciples · Classical Chinese original · new English translation and commentary by Text Atlas
Overview
Book 13 asks what makes government effective and what qualifies someone to serve. Leading by example, appointing capable people, setting names right, creating prosperity, and teaching all place demands on the ruler. Short claims about conduct stand beside long exchanges about speech, judgment, and the time needed for change. The book also tests uprightness, reputation, reliability, and harmony through particular relationships, sometimes leaving a difficult tension visible, as when family concealment is praised. Its closing sayings make preparation for war a responsibility toward the people who must fight.
Analects 13.16
葉公問政。子曰、近者說、遠者來。
The Lord of She asked about government. The Master said, “Those nearby are pleased; those far away come.”
Commentary
politics Good rule felt nearby and from afar The Lord of She asks about government and receives two visible signs: satisfaction among those close by and the arrival of those far away. The parallel measures a government through people’s responses. It echoes the movement of families toward good rulers in 13.4 without adding a particular policy.
Basis: textual-inference
Confidence: high