Mencius was a notable Chinese philosopher during the 2nd century BC. Originating from the school of Confucianism, his main interest was in the fields of ethics, social and political philosophy. He was one of the primary interpreters of Confucianism. Mencius was the disciple of the great Confucius’ grandson, Zisi. He was a wayfaring Chinese sage who travelled throughout China for over four decades, illuminating his knowledge and advice to various rulers. According to the Neo-Confucians of the Song dynasty, Mencius’ interpretation on Confucianism was regarded as traditional and conformist. Mencius’ disciples constituted of influential feudal lords who believed that they were superior in power than Confucius himself. His conversations with the rulers of China are documented in ‘The Mencius’, which contained elaborate dialogues, fascinating arguments and extensive prose. Mencius disregarded absolute power of monarchy and glorified powers for the common citizen of the state. According to historians, he was believed to be a contemporary of great philosophers such as Xun Zi, Zhuangzi, Gaozi, and Plato. We have collected his quotes from his teachings, writings etc. Read through these quotes from this great philosopher providing an insight into his thoughts and sayings on matters of wisdom, humanity, life, destiny, compassion and life.
Let not a man do what his sense of right bids him not to do, nor desire what it forbids him to desire. This is sufficient. The skillful artist will not alter his measures for the sake of a stupid workman.
Mencius
It is not difficult to govern. All one has to do is not to offend the noble families.
Mencius
Let men decide firmly what they will not do, and they will be free to do vigorously what they ought to do.
Only when a man will not do some things is he capable of doing great things.
Mencius
He who attends to his greater self becomes a great man, and he who attends to his smaller self becomes a small man.
Mencius
The great man is he who does not lose his child's-heart.
Mencius
The people are the most important element in a nation; the spirits of the land and grain are the next; the sovereign is the least.
Mencius
Evil exists to glorify the good. Evil is negative good. It is a relative term. Evil can be transmuted into good. What is evil to one at one time, becomes good at another time to somebody else.
I like fish, and I also like bear's paws. If I cannot have the two together, I will let the fish go, and take the bear's paws. So, I like life, and I also like righteousness. If I cannot keep the two together, I will let life go, and choose righteousness.
