Zhu Xi Quotes
Zhu Xi was a Chinese philosopher and the most influential exponent of Neo-Confucianism. Drawing on the work of the eleventh-century masters, he synthesized a comprehensive metaphysical and ethical system in which all things consist of principle (li) and material force (qi). The quotes below are attributed to Zhu Xi, organized by topic.
Zhu Xi on Knowledge
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“When you read, do not seek to discover anything in the books beyond what is in the books.”
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“The investigation of things is the foundation of learning.”
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“Without learning, even a man of high natural endowment cannot become a sage.”
Zhu Xi on Nature
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“All things in the world have principle, and the investigation of principle must extend to every individual thing.”
Zhu Xi on Virtue
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“If one is not sincere, one cannot move others.”
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Attributed to Zhu Xi:
“Hold fast to reverence; this is the foundation of self-cultivation.”