The Paradox of Charity: Why a Gentleman Relieves the Distressed, Not Enriches the Wealthy

Confucius said: A gentleman helps the distressed, but does not add to the wealth of the rich.

When Chi was proceeding to Qi, he had fat horses to his carriage, and wore light furs. I have heard that a superior man helps the distressed, but does not add to the wealth of the rich.

赤之适齐也,乘肥马,衣轻裘。吾闻之也,君子周急不继富。

Source: The Analects, Yong Ye VI, Chapter 4

Author: Confucius

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