Analects 7.19: 述而 (Shu Er)
Confucius and his disciples · Classical Chinese original · new English translation and commentary by Text Atlas
Overview
Book 7 builds a portrait of the Master through self-descriptions, conversations, and observations of his conduct. He loves the ancient tradition, learns through sustained attention, and teaches by asking learners to carry an indication further. Music, mourning, plain food, and illness show how these commitments enter daily life. Political judgment calls for knowing when to act or withdraw and for accepting criticism. Repeated disclaimers about his own attainment sit beside confidence in Heaven and the nearness of humaneness. The closing portrait holds warmth, firmness, respect, and ease together.
Analects 7.19
子曰、我非生而知之者、好古、敏以求之者也。
The Master said, “I am not someone born with knowledge. I love the ancient tradition and diligently seek understanding.”
Commentary
ethics Understanding acquired through seeking The denial of knowledge from birth is followed by two positive habits: love of the ancient tradition and energetic seeking. 好古 repeats the opening saying’s attachment to antiquity. 敏 adds promptness or diligence, so the past is approached through activity.
Basis: textual-inference
Confidence: medium