The Gradations of Withdrawal: How the Worthy Navigate a Troubled World

By / / reclusion, The Analects, troubled times, wisdom, withdrawal, Xian Wen XIV, Xian Wen XIV Chapter 37
Confucius described four levels of withdrawal for the worthy: from the world, a place, disrespectful looks, and harsh words.

Some men of worth retire from the world. Some retire from particular states. Some retire because of disrespectful looks. Some retire because of contradictory language.

贤者辟世，其次辟地，其次辟色，其次辟言。

Source: The Analects, Xian Wen XIV, Chapter 37

Author: Confucius

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