Analect 5.12: The Golden Rule?

This analect reflects something like a negative version of the famous Golden Rule from the Gospels. However, it is presented by the disciple Zigong, and rather than being commended for such a lofty goal, Confucius chastises him: "Ah, Zigong! That is something quite beyond you." Why does Confucius say this? A negative version of the Golden Rule seems appropriately restrained when compared to the positive version in other traditions. What would Confucius suggest instead? Does Confucius think that it is sometimes counterproductive for certain people to have ideals, instead focusing on small measurements of progress? 

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  1. Krishnan VenkateshFebruary 15, 2022 at 11:56 AM

    A good follow-up would be to examine the character of Zigong and see why the Master would say this to him.

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