Original Text:
执圭鞠躬如也如不胜上如揖下如授勃如战色足蹜蹜如有循享礼有容色私觌愉愉如也
Translation:
Other Translations:
When grasping the official jade tablet, he would draw himself in, as if he could not bear its weight. Sometimes he held it high against his forehead as if saluting, while at other times he held it low at his waist as if offering a gift. Alert and serious, his expression would be like someone about to go into battle, and he would walk with shortened steps as though each movement were carefully scripted. During the ceremonial exchange of gifts, his countenance was accommodating; when having his private audience, he seemed at ease.
Confucius, & Slingerland, E. (2003). Analects: With selections from traditional commentaries. Hackett Publishing.
When he carried the jade tablet, he bent forward, as though he could not bear the weight. He held it up as though performing a bow, lowered it as though handing over an object. His face took on a look of concentration, an expression of fear, and he moved his feet carefully, as though walking a line.
When presenting official gifts, his expression was genial, and at the exchange of private gifts his manner was even more relaxed.
Confucius, & Watson, B. (2007). The Analects of Confucius. Columbia University Press.