The Analects

DEFINITION
The Analects are considered a record of the words and acts of the central Chinese thinker and philosopher Confucius and his disciples, as well as the discussions they had. Written during the Spring and Autumn Period through the Warring States Period (ca. 479 BCE - 221 BCE), the Analects is the representative work of Confucianism and it influences China and East Asia with teachings and values today. Chapters are not arranged in any way to carry a continuous stream of thought or idea, which lets us know that The Analects were not written by one single person. Long time ago, in China, a man was not considered morally upright or enlightened if he did not study Confucius' works .

DEEP THOUGHTS
Confucius states that a man should lead an upright life, educate himself, and contribute in their society. The superior man respects elders, cultivates friendship, treats his subordinates with a fair and even hand, continually educates himself, has a lot of love for fellow human beings, and is a good example for others to follow. The Analects are easy to understand. The teachings are presented in parallelisms and antithesis. The moral teachings include: government matters, right living, foresight, prudence, duties and humanity, among others.