The Art of Timing: Confucius on the Superior Man Who Knows When to Advance and Retreat

Confucius said: “A true gentleman like Qu Boyu serves in orderly times, and withdraws to preserve himself in chaotic times.”

A superior man indeed is Qu Bo Yu! When good government prevails in his state, he is to be found in office. When bad government prevails, he can roll his principles up, and keep them in his breast.

君子哉蘧伯玉!邦有道,则仕;邦无道,则可卷而怀之。

Source: The Analects, Wei Ling Gong XV, Chapter 7

Author: Confucius

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