What If Wealth Were Within Reach? Confucius on the Choice Between Riches and Principle

Confucius said: If wealth is attainable, I would work for it. But since it's not certain, I follow what I love.

If the search for riches is sure to be successful, though I should become a groom with whip in hand to get them, I will do so. As the search may not be successful, I will follow after that which I love.

富而可求也,虽执鞭之士,吾亦为之。如不可求,从吾所好。

Source: The Analects, Shu Er VII, Chapter 12

Author: Confucius

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