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The paradigmatic Chinese sage expounds on leading an ethical and fulfilled life.

Page 480 of 547
Table of Contents

IV

The Master, having come to Wû-ch’ǎng, heard there the sound of stringed instruments and singing.

Well pleased and smiling, he said, “Why use an ox knife to kill a fowl?”

Tsze-yû replied, “Formerly, Master, I heard you say⁠—‘When the man of high station is well instructed, he loves men; when the man of low station is well instructed, he is easily ruled.’ ”

The Master said, “My disciples, Yen’s words are right. What I said was only in sport.”

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