Minor

Analects 19.11

Original Text:

子夏曰大德不逾闲小德出入可也

Translation:

Other Translations:

Zixia said, “As long as one does not transgress the bounds when it comes to important Virtues, it is permissible to cross the line here and there when it comes to minor Virtues.”

Confucius, & Slingerland, E. (2003). Analects: With selections from traditional commentaries. Hackett Publishing.

Zixia said, If in regard to the major virtues you do not overstep the line, in regard to the minor virtues you may be permitted a little coming and going.

Confucius, & Watson, B. (2007). The Analects of Confucius. Columbia University Press.

Analects 15.27

Original Text:

子曰巧言乱德小不忍则乱大谋

Translation:

Other Translations:

The Master said, “Clever words confound Virtue, and impatience when it comes to small matters confounds the execution of great plans.”

Confucius, & Slingerland, E. (2003). Analects: With selections from traditional commentaries. Hackett Publishing.

The Master said, Clever words are the disrupters of virtue. Lack patience in minor matters, and you may disrupt larger schemes.

Confucius, & Watson, B. (2007). The Analects of Confucius. Columbia University Press.