The Master said, “A ceremonial cap made of linen is prescribed by the rites, but these days people use silk. This is frugal, and I follow the majority. To bow before ascending the stairs is what is prescribed by the rites, but these days people bow after ascending. This is arrogant, and—though it goes against the majority—I continue to bow before ascending.”
Confucius, & Slingerland, E. (2003). Analects: With selections from traditional commentaries. Hackett Publishing.
The Master said, Ritual calls for caps of hemp, though nowadays silk is used, because it is more economical. I go along with others in this.
Ritual calls for one to bow at the foot of the stairs. Nowadays people bow at the top of the stairs, but this is presumptuous. Although it means differing from others, I perform the bow at the foot of the stairs.
Confucius, & Watson, B. (2007). The Analects of Confucius. Columbia University Press.
Master Zeng was gravely ill, and Meng Jingzi came to inquire about his health.
Master Zeng said to him, “When a bird is about to die, its call is mournful and touching. When a person is about to die, his words should be heeded. There are three things that are important for a gentleman pursuing the Way: by altering his behavioral demeanor, he avoids violence and arrogance; by rectifying his countenance, he welcomes trustworthiness; and in his choice of words and tone of voice, he avoids vulgarity and impropriety. As for the details of handling sacrificial vessels, there are minor officials to deal with that.”
Confucius, & Slingerland, E. (2003). Analects: With selections from traditional commentaries. Hackett Publishing.
When Master Zeng was ill, Meng Jing Zi asked how he was.
Master Zeng spoke these words: When a bird is about to die, its cries are sad. When a man is about to die, his words are good. With regard to the Way, there are three things the gentleman prizes: in his actions and manner, that he be far from harshness or arrogance; in ordering his appearance, that he stick close to trustworthiness; in his utterances, that they be far from crude or unseemly. As for the sacrificial baskets and stands, there are experts to tend to such matters.
Confucius, & Watson, B. (2007). The Analects of Confucius. Columbia University Press.
