Source: The Analects of Confucius for Politics
Original text:
Confucius said, "Five out of ten, I am determined to learn; I am thirty years old; Forty without confusion; At the age of fifty, I knew my destiny; I am obedient at the age of sixty; I am still obedient at the age of seventy; I didn't cross the line. "
Translation:
Confucius said: "I am determined to study at the age of fifteen, stand firm on the road of life at the age of thirty, and I am no longer confused at the age of forty." At the age of fifty, I knew the fate arranged by God. At the age of 60, you can tell right from wrong when you hear others speak. At the age of 70, you can speak and do whatever you want without overstepping the bounds. "
Text appreciation
In this chapter, Confucius expounds that the process of moral cultivation lies in continuous progress and perfection. When describing his life experience, he realized that moral cultivation could not be achieved overnight, nor could it be completed at once. It takes a long time to study and exercise, and there is a gradual process.
Moreover, the highest state of morality is the unity of thought and words and deeds, and it is voluntary to abide by moral norms from the heart, rather than reluctantly doing it against one's will. In addition, Confucius' experience of being a man and doing things is also for future generations to learn from and point out the correct training methods.