Analects 19.4

Original Text:

子夏曰虽小道必有可观者焉致远恐泥是以君子不为也

Translation:

Other Translations:

Zixia said, “Although the byways no doubt have their own interesting sights to see, one who wishes to reach a distant destination fears becoming mired. This is why the gentleman does not take the byways.”

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

Zixia said, Although it may be a lesser Way, it must have things worth noting. But if pursued too far, there’s a danger of becoming mired in it—therefore, the gentleman does not do so.

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