Lunyu - The analects of Confucius
Where the Sage Comes Alive
Analect refers to a fragment or extract from literature. As the name implies, Lunyu -- the Analects of Confucius -- is a collection of confucius teachings.
Despite his tremendous influence, Confucius is not known to have written any specific books, although he is thought to be editor or in some cases author of the Five Classics, which include The Book of Changes, Classic of Poetry, Classic of Rites, Classic of History, Spring and Autumn Annals. Classic of Music, which is sometimes considered as the sixth classic, is also thought to be associated with him.
Best source of Confucius Teachings
Lun yu (lun4yu3) is one of the most important books of Confucianism, which portrays life and thought of Confucius through a discontinuous series of brief statements, short dialogues and anecdotes.
The book consists of 20 chapters, and is grouped by individual themes that are not necessarily connected. It nevertheless makes the teachings approachable and helps bring the Sage alive. It allows us to learn from the great teacher in close range great subjects from politics, morality to education.
Who wrote the book?
Although the book is about Confucius and his thoughts, it was not written by the Sage, but by two successive generations of disciples. This may explain why the central themes recur repeatedly in different chapters, sometimes in exact or similar wording.
When was the book written?
The book was written over a period of between 30 to 50 years, traversing The Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC - 476 BC) and The Warring States Period (475 BC - 221 BC). It is believed to be completed around 400 BC, 75 years after Confucius’ death.
Confucius Teachings from the Analects
The best way to learn about Confucius and his teachings is none other but to read the classics, especially the Analects of Confucius.
If you prefer to learn only about the key concepts of Confucianism, you may find our series of articles useful. Each of the articles is based on one to two key words found in the classics, which are capable of bringing out the essence of the Confucius teachings.
Confucius teachings:
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