弟子规圣人训首孝弟次谨信

弟子规

总叙

（1） 弟子规。圣人训。首孝弟。次谨信。

（2） 凡爱众。而亲仁。有余力。则学文。

入则孝

（3） 父母呼。应勿缓。父母命。行勿懒。

（4） 父母教。须敬听。父母责。须顺承。

（5） 冬则温。夏则清。晨则省。昏则定

（6） 出必告。反必面。居有常。业无变。

（7） 事虽小。勿擅为。苟擅为。子道亏。

（8） 物虽小。勿私藏。苟私藏。亲心伤。

（9） 亲所好。力为具。亲所恶。谨为去。

（10） 身有伤。贻亲忧。德有伤。贻亲羞。

（11） 亲爱我。孝何难。亲憎我。孝方贤。

（12） 亲有过。谏使更。怡吾色。柔吾声。

（13） 谏不入。悦复谏。号泣随。达无怨。

（14） 亲有疾。药先尝。昼夜待。不离床。

（15） 丧三年。常悲咽。居处变。酒肉绝。

（16） 丧尽礼。祭尽诚。事死者。如事生。

出则弟

（17） 兄道友。弟道恭。兄弟睦。孝在中。

（18） 财物轻。怨何生。言语忍。忿自泯。

（19） 或饮食。或坐走。长者先。幼者后。

（20） 长呼人。即代叫。人不在。已即到。

（21） 称尊长。勿呼名。对尊长。勿见能。

（22） 路遇长。疾行揖。长无言。退恭立。

（23） 骑下马。乘下车。过犹待。百步余。

（24） 长者立。幼勿坐。长者坐。命乃坐。

（25） 尊长前。声要低。低不闻。却非宜。

（26） 进必 。退必迟。问起对。视勿移。

（27） 事诸父。如事父。事诸兄。如事兄。

谨

（28） 朝起早。夜眠迟。老易至。惜此时。

（29） 晨必盥。兼漱口。便溺回。辄洗手。

（30） 冠必正。纽必节。袜与履。俱紧切。

（31） 置冠服。有定位。勿乱顿。致污秽。

（32） 衣贵洁。不贵华。上循分。下 家。

（33） 对饮食。勿拣择。食适可。勿过则。

（34） 年方少。少饮酒。饮酒醉。最为丑。

（35） 步从容。立端正。揖深圆。拜恭敬。

（36） 勿践或。勿跛倚。勿箕踞。勿摇 。

（37） 缓揭帘。勿有声。宽转弯。勿触棱。

（38） 执虚器。如执盈。入虚室。如有人。

（39） 事勿忙。忙多错。勿畏难。勿轻略。

（40） 门闹场。绝勿近。邪僻事。绝勿问。

（41） 将入门。问孰存。将上堂。声必扬。

（42） 人问谁。对以名。吾与我。不分明。

（43） 用人物。须明求。倘不问。即为偷。

（44） 借人物。及时还。后有急。借不难。

（45） 信

(19)凡出言. 信为先 .诈与妄 .奚可焉.

话说多. 不如少. 惟其是 .勿佞巧.

奸巧语. 秽污词 .市井气 .切戒之.

(20)见未真. 勿轻言. 知未的. 勿轻传.

事非宜. 勿轻诺. 苟轻诺. 进退难.

凡道字. 重且舒 .勿急疾 .勿模糊.

彼说长 .此说短 .不关己. 莫闲管.

(21)见人善. 即思齐. 纵去远. 以渐跻.

见人恶. 即内省 .有则改 .无加警.

(22)唯德学. 唯才艺. 不如人. 当自励.

若衣服 .若饮食 .不如人 .勿生戚.

(23)闻过怒. 闻誉乐 .损友来 .益友却

闻誉恐 .闻过欣 .直谅士. 渐相亲.

(24)无心非 .名为错 .有心非 .名为恶.

过能改 .归于无 .倘掩饰 .增一辜.

泛爱众

(25)凡是人 .皆须爱. 天同覆 .地同载.

(26)行高者 .名自高 .人所重 .非貌高.

才大者 .望自大. 人所服 .非言大.

(27)己有能. 勿自私 .人所能. 勿轻訾.

勿谄富 .勿骄贫 .勿厌故 .勿喜新.

人不闲 .勿事搅. 人不安 .勿话扰.

(28)人有短. 切莫揭 .人有私. 切莫说.

道人善 .即是善 .人知之 .愈思勉.

扬人恶 .即是恶 .疾之甚. 祸且作.

善相劝 .德皆建 .过不规. 道两亏.

(29)凡取舆.贵分晓. 舆宜多. 即速已.

将加人 .先问己. 己不欲 .即速已.

恩欲报 .怨欲忘. 抱怨短. 报恩长.

(30)待婢仆 .身贵端. 虽贵端 .慈而宽.

势服人 .心不然 .理服人. 方无言.

亲仁

(31)同是人 .类不齐 .流俗众. 仁者希.

果仁者 .人多畏 .言不讳 .色不媚.

能亲仁 .无限好 .德日进 .过日少.

不亲仁 .无限害 .小人进. 百事坏.

余力 学文

(32)不力行 .但学文 .长浮华. 成何人

但力行 .不学文. 任己见. 昧理真

(33)读书法 .有三到 .心眼口 .信皆要.

方读此 .勿慕彼. 此未终 .彼勿起 .

宽为限 .紧用功. 工夫到 .滞塞通.

心有疑. 随札记. 就人问 .求确义.

(34)房室清 .墙壁净. 几案洁 .笔砚正.

墨磨偏 .心不端 .字不敬 .心先病.

列典籍 .有定处. 读看毕 .还原处.

虽有急. 卷束齐 .有缺坏 .就补之.

非圣贤. 屏勿视 .蔽聪明 .坏心志.

勿自暴 .勿自弃 .圣与贤 .可驯致.

DI ZI GUI

GUIDE TO A HAPPY LIFE

Outline

DI ZI GUI or Standards for Being a Good Student and Child is a book that was taught by Chinese saints and sages of the ancient past. The book first teaches us how to be dutiful to our parents, and how to be respectful and loving to our siblings. It then teaches us how to be cautious with all people, matters, and objects

in our daily lives; how to be a trustworthy person; and to believe in the teachings of the ancient saints and sages.

Furthermore, it teaches us to love all equally, and to be close to and learn from people of virtue and compassion. Only when we have accomplished all the above can we then study further and learn literature and art to improve the quality of our cultural and spiritual lives.

Chapter 1

At Home, Be Dutiful to My Parents

When my parents call me, I will answer them right away. When they ask me to do something, I will do it quickly. When my parents instruct me, I will listen respectfully. When my parents instruct me, I will obey and accept their scolding. I will try hard to change and improve myself, to start anew.

In the winter, I will keep my parents warm; in the summer, I will keep my parents cool. I will always greet my parents in the morning to show them that I care. At night I will always make sure my parents rest well. Before going out, I must tell my parents where I am going, for parents are always concerned about their children. After returning home, I must go and see my parents to let them know I am back, so they do not worry about me. I will maintain a permanent place to stay and lead a routine life. I will persist in whatever I do and will not change my aspiration at will.

A matter might be trivial, but if it is wrong to do it or unfair to another person, I must not do it thinking it will bear little or no consequence. If I do, I am not being a dutiful child because my parents would not want to see me doing things that are irrational or illegal. Even though an object might be small, I will not keep it a secret from my parents. If I do, I will hurt my parents’ feelings.

If whatever pleases my parents is fair and reasonable, I will try my best to attain it for them. If something displeases my parents, if within reason I will cautiously keep it away from them. When my body is hurt, my parents will be worried. If my virtues are compromised, my parents will feel ashamed. When I have loving parents, it is not difficult to be dutiful to them. But if I can be dutiful to parents who hate me, only then will I meet the standards of the saints and sages for being a dutiful child.

When my parents do wrong, I will urge them to change. I will do it with a kind facial expression and a warm gentle voice. If they do not accept my advice, I will wait until they are in a happier mood before I attempt to dissuade them again, followed by crying, if necessary, to make them understand. If they end up whipping me I will not hold a grudge against them.

When my parents are ill, I will taste the medicine before giving it to them. I will take care of them night and day and stay by their bedside. During the first three years of mourning after my parents have passed away, I will remember them with gratitude and feel sad often for not being able to repay them for their kindness in raising me. During this period I will arrange my home to reflect my grief and

sorrow. I will also avoid festivities and indulgence in food and alcoholic drinks. I will observe proper etiquette in arranging my parents’ funerals. I will hold the memorial ceremony and commemorate my parents’ anniversaries with utmost sincerity. I will serve my departed parents as if they were still alive.

Chapter 2

Standards for a Younger Brother When Away from Home

If I am the older sibling, I will befriend the younger ones. If I am the younger sibling, I will respect and love the older ones. Only when I can maintain harmonious relationships with my siblings am I being dutiful to my parents. When I value my familial ties more than property and belongings, no resentment will come between me and my siblings. When I am careful with words and hold back hurtful comments, my feelings of anger naturally die out.

Whether I am drinking, eating, walking, or sitting, I will let the elders go first; the younger ones should follow. When an elder is asking for someone, I will get that person for him right away.. if I cannot find that person, I will immediately report back, and put myself at the elder’s service instead.

When I address and elder, I should not call him by his given name. This is in accord with ancient Chinese etiquette. In front of an elder, I will never show off. If I meet an elder I know on the street, I will promptly clasp my hands and greet him with a bow. If he does not speak to me, I will step back and respectfully stand aside.

Should I be riding a horse and spot an elder I know walking, I will dismount and pay respect to the elder. If I am riding in a carriage, I will stop, get out of the carriage, and ask if I can give the elder a ride. If I meet an elder passing by, I will stand aside and wait respectfully. I will not leave until the elder disappears form my sight.

When an elder is standing, I will not sit. After an elder sits down, I sit only when I am told to do so. Before an elder, I will speak softly. But if my voice is too low and hard to hear, it is not appropriate. When meeting an elder, I will walk briskly towards him; when leaving, I will not exit in haste. When answering a question, I will look at the person who is asking me the question.

I will serve my uncles as if I am serving my parents. I will treat my cousins as if they are my own siblings.

Chapter 3

Be Cautious in My Daily Life

I will get up each morning before my parents; at night, I will go to bed only after my parents have gone to sleep. When I realize that time is passing me by and cannot be turned back, and that I am getting older year by year, I will especially treasure the present moment. When I get up in the morning, I will wash my face and brush my teeth. After using the toilet, I will always wash my hands.

I must wear my hat straight, and make sure the hooks of my clothes are tied. My socks and shoes should also be worn neatly and correctly. I will always place my hat and clothes away in their proper places. I will not carelessly throw my clothes around, for that will get them dirty.

It is more important that my clothes are clean, rather than how extravagant they are. I will wear only what is suitable for my station. At home, I will wear clothes according to my family traditions and customs. When it comes to eating and drinking, I will pick and choose my food. I will only eat the right amount; I will not over-eat. I am still young, I must not drink alcohol, when I am drunk, my behavior will turn ugly.

I will always walk composed, with light and even steps. I will always stand up straight and tall. My bows will always be deep, with hands held in front and arms rounded. I will always pay my respect with reverence. I will not step on doorsills or stand leaning on one leg. I will not sit with my legs apart or sprawled out. I will not rock the lower part of my body while standing or sitting down.

I will always lift the curtain slowly, and quietly. I must leave myself ample space when I turn so I will not bump into a corner. I will hold empty containers carefully as if they were full. I will enter empty rooms as if they were occupied. I will avoid doing things in a hurry, as doing things in haste will lead to many mistakes. I should not be afraid of difficult tasks, and I will not become careless when a job is too easy. I will keep away from rowdy places. I will not ask about things that are abnormal or unusual.

When I am about to enter a main entrance, I must first ask if someone is inside. Before entering a room, I must first make myself heard, so that those inside know someone is approaching. If someone asks who I am, I must give my name. To answer ‘It is me’ or ‘Me’ is not sufficient. Before borrowing things from others, I must ask for permission. If I do not ask, it is stealing. When borrowing things from others, I will return them promptly. Later, if I have an urgent need, I will not have a problem borrowing from them again.

Chapter 4

Be Trustworthy

When I speak , honesty is important. Deceitful words and lies must not be tolerated.

Rather than talking too much ,it is better to speak less. I will speak only the truth, I will not twist the facts.Cunning words, foul language, and philistine habits must be avoided at all costs.

What I have not seen with my own eyes ,I will not readily tellto others. What I do not know for sure ,I will not easily pass on to others.

If I am asked to do something that is inappropriate or bad, I must not agree to it ,if I do ,I will be doubly wrong .I must speak clearly and to the point. I must not talk too fast or mumble.Some like to talk about the good points of others, while

some like to talk about the faults of others. If it I none of my business ,I will not get involved.

When I see others do good deeds, I must think about following their example. Even through my own achievements are still far behind those of others, I am getting closer.

When I see others do wrong . I must immediately reflect upon myself. If I have made the same mistake , I will correct it. If not, I will take extra care to not make the same mistake.

When my morals ,conduct, knowledge, and skills seem not as good as those of others, I will encourage myself to be better.If the clothes I wear ,and the food I eat and drink are not as good as that of others , I should not be concerned.

If criticism makes me angry and compliments make me happy ,bad company will come my way and good friends will shy away. If I am uneasy about compliments and appreciative of criticism, then sincere, understanding,, and virtuous people will gradually come close to me .

If any mistake I make is in advertent, it is merely a mistake. If it is done on purpose, however, it is an evil act. If I correct my mistake and do not repeat it ,I no longer own the mistake. If I try to cover it up, I will be doubly wrong.

Chapter 5

Love all equally

Human beings, regardless of nationality, race ,or religion-everyone-should be loved equally. We are all sheltered by their same sky and we all live on the same planet Earth.

A person of high ideals and morals is highly respected. What people value is not based on outside appearance. A person’s outstanding abilities will naturally endow him with a good reputation. Admiration from others does not come from boasting or praising oneself.

If I am a very capable person, I should use my capabilities for the benefit of others.

Others people’s competence should never be slandered.

I will not flatter the rich , or despise the poor . I will not ignore old friends, only taking delight in new ones. When a person is busy, I will not bother him with matters. When a person’s mind is not at ease, I will not bother him with words.

If a person has a shortcoming, I will not expose it. If a person has a secret ,I will not tell others. Praising the goodness of others is good deed in itself. When people are being praised and approved of , they will be encouraged to try even harder.

Spreading rumors about the wrongdoings of others is a wrongdoing in itself. When the harm done has reached the extreme, misfortunes will surely follow. When I encourage another to do good, both of our virtues are built up. If I do not tell another of his faults, we are both wrong.

Whether I take or give, I need to know the difference between the two. It is better to give more and take less.

What I ask others to do ,I must first ask myself if I would be willing to do. If it is not something I would be willing to do ,I will not ask others to do it .

I must repay the kindness of others and let go of my resentments. I will spend less time holding grudges and more time paying back the kindness of others.

When I am directing maids and servants, I will act honorably and properly. I will also treat them kindly and generously .

If I use my influence to make them submissive, their hearts will not be with me. If I can convince them with sound reasoning, they will have nothing to object to .

Chapter 6

Be Close to and Learn from People of Virtue and Compassion

We are all human, but we are not the same. Most of us are ordinary; only a very few have great virtues and high moral principles. A truly virtuous person is

greatly respected by others. He will not be afraid to speak the truth and he will not fawn on others. I can be close to and learn from people of great virtue and compassion, I will benefit immensely. My virtues will grow daily and my wrongdoings will lesson day by day. If I choose not to be close to and learn from people of great virtue, I will suffer a great loss. People without virtue will get close to me and nothing I attempt will succeed.

Chapter 7

After all the above are accomplished, I should study further and learn

literature and art to improve my cultural and spiritual life.

If I do not actively practice what I have learned, but continue to study on the surface, even though my knowledge is increasing, it is only superficial. What kind of person will I be? If I do apply my knowledge diligently, but stop studying, I will only do things based on my own opinion, thinking it is correct. In fact, what I know is not the truth.

There are methods to study correctly. They involve concentration in three areas: my mind, my eyes, and my mouth. To believe in what I read is equally important.

When I begin to read a book, I will not think about another. If I have not completed the book, I will not start another. I will give myself lots of time to study, and I will study hard. If I devote enough time and effort, I will thoroughly

understand. If I have a question, I will make a note of it. I will ask the person who has the knowledge for the right answer.

I will keep my room neat, my walls and uncluttered and clean ,my desk tidy and my brush and inkstone properly placed.

If my ink block is ground unevenly, it shows I have a poor state of mind. When words are written carelessly, showing no respect, this shows my state of mind has not been well. My book should be classified, placed on the bookshelves, and in their proper places. After I finish reading a book, I will put it back where it belongs.

Even if I am in a hurry, I still must neatly roll up and bind the open bamboo scroll I have been reading. All missing or damaged pages ought to be immediately repaired.

If it is not a book on the teaching of the saints and sages, it should be discarded and not even looked at. Such books can block my intelligence and wisdom, and will undermine my aspirations and sense of direction.

Neither be harsh on myself, nor give up on myself. To be a person of high ideals, moral standards and virtues is something we can all attain in time.

Typed by Rachel Jiang and Janis Chen

(2007CSE SZ team)

2007.5.8

DI ZI GUI

GUIDE TO A HAPPY LIFE

幸福人生指规 总序 Outline 总纲领 弟子规 圣人训 首孝弟 次谨信 DI ZI GUI or Standards for Being a Good Student and Child is a book that was taught by Chinese saints and sages of the ancient past. The book first teaches us how to be dutiful to our parents, and how to be respectful and loving to our siblings. It then teaches us how to be cautious with all people, matters, and objects in our daily lives; how to be a trustworthy person; and to believe in the teachings of the ancient saints and sages.

<弟子规>是中国古圣先贤的教诲。首先它教导我们该怎么孝顺父母和尊重敬爱我们的兄弟姐妹。然后它教我们在日常生活中，对所有人、事、物，要如何保持小心谨慎，要我们做一个有信用的人，教我们要相信古圣先贤的教诲。

凡爱众 而亲仁 有余力 则学文 Furthermore, it teaches us to love all equally, and to be close to and learn from

people of virtue and compassion. Only when we have accomplished all the above can we then study further and learn literature and art to improve the quality of our cultural and spiritual lives.

接着它知道我们应该要平等的去爱护一切众生，要亲近仁慈、有德行的人，向他们学习。我们必须先把自己本分内的责任都做到了，如还有剩余的时间和精力，才可以更进一步学习研究文学艺术，来提升自己的精神生活品质。

Sincerity Respect Humility Peace 入则孝 Chapter 1 At Home, Be Dutiful to My Parents 第一章 在家要孝顺父母 父母呼 应勿缓 父母命 行勿懒 When my parents call me, I will answer them right away. When they ask me to do something, I will do it quickly.

当父母在呼唤我，我要马上回答他们。 父母命令我做的事。我要赶快去做。

父母教 须敬听 父母责 须奉承

When my parents instruct me, I will listen respectfully. When my parents reproach me, I will obey and accept their scolding. I will try hard to change and improve myself, to start anew.

对父母的教诲，我要恭敬的倾听。对父母的指责，我要顺从承受，并且还要努力的去改过自新。

冬则温 夏则清 晨则省 昏则定 In the winter, I will keep my parents warm; in the summer, I will keep my parents cool. I will always greet my parents in the morning to show them that I care. At night, I will always make sure my parents rest well.

冬天我要让父母的身体保持暖和，夏天能保持凉爽。每天早晨我要跟父母请安，表示我对父母的关怀，夜晚我要让父母睡的安稳。

出必告 反必面 居有常 业无变 Before going out, I must tell my parents where I am going, for parents are always concerned about their children. After returning home, I must go and see my parents to let them know I am back, so they do not worry about me. I will always maintain a permanent place to stay and lead a routine life. I will persist in whatever I do and will not change my aspirations at will.

出门前我应该先禀告父母，让他们知道我会去哪里，因为父母时刻都在为子女们操心。

回家后，我应该先拜见父母，让他们知道我已回来了，好让父母安心。居住的地方要固定，生活要有规律，做事要有恒心，不要随意更改自己的志向。

事虽小 勿擅为 苟擅为 子道亏 A matter might be trivial, but if it is wrong to do it or unfair to another person, I must not do it thinking it will bear little or no consequence. If I do, I am not being a dutiful child because my parents would not want to see me doing things that are irrational or illegal.

虽然只是一件小事，如果不合情理，不要睡衣去做。如果做了，就是不孝，因为父母不会愿意见到子女做不合请、理、法的事情。

物虽小 勿私藏 苟私藏 亲心伤 Even though an object might be small, I will not keep it a secret from my parents. If I do, I will hurt my parents’ feelings.

东西虽小，不要私自收藏。如果私自收藏东西，父母知道后，一定会感到很伤心的。

亲所好 力为具 亲所恶 谨为去 If whatever pleases my parents is fair and reasonable, I will try my best to attain it for them. If something displeases my parents, if within reason I will cautiously keep it away from them.

父母合情、合理、合法的爱好，我要尽力为他们准备好。在合理的范围内，如果有人、事、物令父母感到厌恶，我也要尽可能谨慎的为他们除去。

亲有伤 贻亲忧 德有伤 贻亲羞 When my body is hurt, my parents will be worried. If my virtues are compromised, my parents will feel ashamed.

如果我的身体受了伤，我的父母会担忧。如果我的德行不好。我的父母会因此而感到羞愧。

亲爱我 孝何难 亲憎我 孝方贤 When I have loving parents, it is not difficult to be dutiful to them. But if I can be dutiful to parents who hate me, only then will I meet the standards of the saints and sages for being a dutiful child.

如我的父母亲爱我，孝顺父母并不困难。但是如我的父母憎恶我，我还是能一样的孝敬他们，那才符合圣贤人行孝的标准。

亲有过 谏使更 怡吾色 柔吾声 When my parents do wrong, I will urge them to change. I will do it with a kind facial expression and a warm gentle voice.

父母有过失，要力劝他们更改。劝他们的时候，我们的表情要委婉，音声要柔和。

谏不入 悦复谏 号泣随 打无怨 If they do not accept my advice, I will wait until they are in a happier mood before I attempt to dissuade them again, followed by crying, if necessary, to make them understand. If they end up whipping me I will not hold a grudge against them.

如父母不接受我们的劝告，我们可以等父母心情好一点的时候，再次的劝他们。如果父母还是不肯接受，我们可以接着用哭泣的方式使父母觉悟。即使因此被父母鞭打，我们心理也绝不会起怨恨之心。

亲有疾 药先尝 昼夜待 不离床 When my parents are ill, I will taste the medicine before giving it to them. I will take care of them night and day and stay by their bedside.

父母亲生病了，所喝的汤药，我们自己要先尝过。我们早晚都要在父母的床旁细心的服侍他们。

丧三年 常悲咽 居处变 酒肉绝 During the first three years of mourning after my parents have passed away, I will remember them with gratitude and feel sad often for not being able to repay them for their kindness in raising me. During this period I will arrange my home to reflect my grief and sorrow. I will also avoid festivities and indulgence in food and

alcoholic drinks.

替父母守丧的三年期间，我们应该要常惦记着父母养育之恩未报而感到悲伤哽咽。在这段期间内，家里的布置应该有哀泣的气氛。我们应该要避免去游乐场所、参加喜庆典礼或者是大吃大喝。

丧尽礼 祭尽诚 事死者 如事生 I will observe proper etiquette in arranging my parents’ funerals. I will hold the memorial ceremony and commemorate my parents’ anniversaries with utmost sincerity. I will serve my departed parents as if they were still alive.

我们要依礼办理父母的丧事，要用至诚的心祭祀父母。我们侍奉已过世的父母要如同父母在世时一样。

出则弟 Chapter 2 Standards for a Younger Brother When Away from Home 第二章 在外做弟弟应有的标准原则 兄道友 弟道恭 兄弟睦 孝在中 If I am the older sibling, I will befriend the younger ones. If I am the younger

sibling, I will respect and love the older ones. Only when I can maintain harmonious relationships with my siblings am I being dutiful to my parents.

为人兄长要友爱自己的弟弟妹妹，弟弟妹妹应该要尊重敬爱自己的兄长。兄弟姐妹能和睦相处，就是在孝敬父母。

财务轻 怨何生 言语忍 忿自冺 When I value my familial ties more than property and belongings, no resentment will come between me and my siblings. When I am careful with words and hold back hurtful comments, my feelings of anger naturally die out.

当兄弟姐妹懂得重视同胞的情谊超过财务，彼此就不会为了争取财物而产生怨恨。如彼此说话都能谨慎、有耐心、能容忍，愤恨的心自然就歼灭了。

或饮食 或坐走 长者先 幼者后 Whether I am drinking, eating, walking, or sitting, I will let the elders go first; the younger ones should follow.

无论是吃、喝，还是在坐、在走，都应该要让长者先，幼者跟随在后。

长呼人 即代叫 人不在 己即到 When an elder is asking for someone, I will get that person for him right away. If I cannot find that person, I will immediately report back, and put myself at the

elder’s service instead.

如长者在叫唤人，要立即代长者去叫。如果那人不在，自己要马上回来向长者报告，并且要代替那人为长者服务。

称尊长 勿呼名 对尊长 勿见能 When I address and elder, I should not call him by his given name. This is in accord with ancient Chinese etiquette. In front of an elder, I will never show off.

依中国古礼，称呼尊长不可以称他的名。在尊长面前，不要卖弄自己的才能。

路遇长 疾作揖 长无言 退恭立 If I meet an elder I know on the street, I will promptly clasp my hands and greet him with a bow. If he does not speak to me, I will step back and respectfully stand aside.

在路上遇到我认识的长者，我应该要快速向前跟长者鞠躬敬礼。如果他不开口跟我说话，我应该恭敬的退立在一旁。

骑下马 乘下车 过犹待 百步余 Should I be riding a horse and spot an elder I know walking, I will dismount and pay respect to the elder. If I am riding in a carriage, I will stop, get out of the carriage, and ask if I can give the elder a ride. If I meet an elder passing by, I will

stand aside and wait respectfully. I will not leave until the elder disappears form my sight.

当我骑在马上，在路上遇到我认识的长者，我应该下马跟长者致敬。如我是乘坐在马车上，我就应该停住马车后下车跟长者致敬，然后请问长者是否能栽他议程。在路上遇到我认识的长者经过，我应该要恭敬站立在一旁等候，等长者走远见不到了，我才能离去。

长者立 幼勿坐 长者坐 命乃做 When an elder is standing, I will not sit. After an elder sits down, I sit only when I am told to do so.

当长者还站立者，我不可以坐下。要等长者坐下后，长者叫我坐，我才能坐。

尊长前 声要低 低不闻 欲非宜 Before an elder, I will speak softly. But if my voice is too low and hard to hear it, it is not appropriate.

在尊长前，说话声音要低。如果太低，听不清楚，也不适宜。

进必疾 退必迟 问起对 视勿移 When meeting an elder, I will walk briskly towards him; when leaving, I will not exit in haste. When answering a question, I will look at the person who is asking me the question.

会见长者，要快步走到他面前；离开时，动作不要太仓促。回答长者问题时，眼睛要正视长者。

事诸父 如事兄 事诸兄 如事兄 I will serve my uncles as if I am serving my parents. I will treat my cousins as if they are my own siblings.

是风自己的伯叔或堂伯叔，要如同时逢自己的父母一样。对待堂兄弟、表兄弟，也要如同对待自己的亲兄弟一样。

谨 Chapter 3 Be Cautious in My Daily Life 第三章 每日的生活行为要小心谨慎 朝早起 夜眠迟 老易至 惜此时 I will get up each morning before my parents; at night, I will go to bed only after my parents have gone to sleep. When I realize that time is passing me by and cannot be turned back, and that I am getting older year by year, I will especially treasure the present moment.

每天早晨我要比父母起的早，夜晚要等父母睡后，我才去睡。当我觉察到时间一去不返，自己一年一年的变老，就该格外珍惜眼前的光阴。

晨必盥 兼漱口 便溺回 辄净手 When I get up in the morning, I will wash my face and brush my teeth. After using the toilet, I will always wash my hands.

早晨起床后要洗脸、刷牙。上完厕所，要马上把手洗干净。

冠必正 纽必结 袜与履 俱紧切 I must wear my hat straight, and make sure the hooks of my clothes are tied. My socks and shoes should also be worn neatly and correctly.

帽子一定要戴端正，衣服的钮扣要打好结，袜子和鞋子要穿整齐。

置冠服 有定位 无乱顿 致污秽 I will always place my hat and clothes away in their proper places. I will not carelessly throw my clothes around, for that will get them dirty.

帽子和衣服要放在一个固定的地方，不要乱放，不然衣服会被弄脏。

衣贵洁 不贵华 上循分 下称家

It is more important that my clothes are clean, rather than how extravagant they are. I will wear only what is suitable for my station. At home, I will wear clothes according to my family traditions and customs.

穿的衣服要干净，是否华丽并不重要。穿着要合适自己的身份和地位。在家的穿着也要合乎传统和习惯。

对饮食 勿拣择 食适可 勿过则 When it comes to eating and drinking, I will pick and choose my food. I will only eat the right amount; I will not over-eat.

对饮料和食物，不要挑剔。吃的分量要适中，不要过饱。

年方少 勿饮酒 饮酒醉 最为丑 I am still young, I must not drink alcohol, when I am drunk, my behavior will turn ugly.

自己年纪还轻，不要学会喝酒。酒醉后的形象适非常丑陋的。

步从容 立端正 揖深圆 拜恭敬 I will always walk composed, with light and even steps. I will always stand up straight and tall. My bows will always be deep, with hands held in front and arms rounded. I will always pay my respect with reverence.

走路的时候，步伐要轻松、要稳重。站立时，身体要端庄、要正直。作揖时，身体要弯的深，手臂要圆。李白他人时，要恭敬。

勿间或 勿跛倚 勿箕踞 勿摇髀 I will not step on doorsills or stand leaning on one leg. I will not sit with my legs apart or sprawled out. I will not rock the lower part of my body while standing or sitting down.

脚不要踏门槛。站立时，身体不要歪靠在一只脚。做事两腿不要岔开或伸展。不要摇动身体的下部。

缓揭帘 勿有声 宽转弯 勿触棱 I will always lift the curtain slowly, and quietly. I must leave myself ample space when I turn so I will not bump into a corner.

掀开门帘的时候要缓慢，不要出声音。转弯的时候要给自己足够的空间，不要去碰触到棱角。

执虚器 如执盈 入虚室 如有人 I will hold empty containers carefully as if they were full. I will enter empty rooms as if they were occupied.

手执着空的容器，要如同满的时候一样小心谨慎。进入一个空的房间，要如同进入一

个有人在的房间一样。

事勿忙 忙多错 勿畏难 勿轻略 I will avoid doing things in a hurry, as doing things in haste will lead to many mistakes. I should not be afraid of difficult tasks, and I will not become careless when a job is too easy.

做事的时候不要匆忙，做事太匆忙容易导致许多错误。不要怕担任艰难的工作，但也不要以为工作很容易，就轻视它，草率的去做。

门闹场 绝勿进 邪僻事 绝勿问

I will keep away from rowdy places. I will not ask about things that are abnormal or unusual.

避免去争斗或胡闹的场所，绝对不过问邪恶或不正常的事情。

将入门 问孰存 将上堂 声必扬 When I am about to enter a main entrance, I must first ask if someone is inside. Before entering a room, I must first make myself heard, so that those inside know someone is approaching.

进入房子大门以前，要现问房里是否有人在。进入房间以前，一定要把声音提高，让别人知道有人将要进来了。

人问谁 对以名 吾与我 不分明 If someone asks who I am, I must give my name. To answer ‘It is me’ or ‘Me’ is not sufficient.

若是有人问是谁，告诉他自己的名字。回答“是我”，别人还是不能确认我是谁。

用人物 须明求 倘不问 即为偷 Before borrowing things from others, I must ask for permission. If I do not ask, it is stealing.

借用别人的物品，必须先得到别人的许可才可以拿来使用。如果事先没有问就拿来用那就是在偷窃。

借人物 及时还 后有急 借不难 When borrowing things from others, I will return them promptly. Later, if I have an urgent need, I will not have a problem borrowing from them again.

借用别人的物品要按时归还给别人。 以后如有急需，再借就不会有困难。

Chapter 4 Be Trustworthy

要做一个值得别人信赖的人 凡出言 信为先 诈与妄 奚可焉 When I speak, honesty is important. Deceitful words and lies must not be tolerated.

只要我开口说话,就要讲信用.怎么可以用欺骗的言语或者是打妄语呢?

话说多 不如少 惟其是 勿佞巧 Rather than talking too much, it is better to speak less. I will speak only the truth, I will not twist the facts.

话说太多,不如少说几句,要说真话,不要歪曲事实.

奸巧语 秽污词 市井气 切戒之 Cunning words, foul language, and philistine habits must be avoided at all costs.

奸诈狡猾的言语,肮脏丑恶的言词以及市井小人的习气一定要戒除.

见未真 勿轻言 知未的 勿轻传 What I have not seen with my own eyes, I will not readily tell to others. What I

do not know for sure, I will not easily pass on to others.

如果不是自己亲眼所见,不要轻易的去告诉别人.尚未肯定过的事实,不要轻易的传说给别人听.

事非宜 勿轻诺 苟轻诺 进退难 If I am asked to do something that is inappropriate or bad, I must not agree to it, if I do, I will be doubly wrong .

如果不是件好事,不要轻易的承诺,不然无论我做还是不做,我都错了.

凡道字 重且舒 勿急疾 勿模糊 I must speak clearly and to the point. I must not talk too fast or mumble.

只要说话,就该有重点,要说的舒畅,不要说得太快,也不要说的模糊不清.

彼说长 此说短 不关己 莫闲管 Some like to talk about the good points of others, while some like to talk about the faults of others. If it I none of my business, I will not get involved.

别人的说长道短,如与自己无关,就不要去多管.

见人善 即思齐 纵去远 以渐跻

When I see others do good deeds, I must think about following their example. Even through my own achievements are still far behind those of others, I am getting closer.

见到别人行善,要马上想到向他们看齐.即使现在跟他们相距还差的很远,我已经开始慢慢的跟上了.

见人恶 即内省 有则改 无加警 When I see others do wrong, I must immediately reflect upon myself. If I have made the same mistake, I will correct it. If not, I will take extra care to not make the same mistake.

见到别人造恶,自己要及时反省.如果我犯有同样的过失,要马上把它改正.如果没有,我要更加以警惕自己不要去犯.

唯德学 唯才艺 不如人 当自励 When my moral, conduct, knowledge, and skills seem not as good as those of others, I will encourage myself to be better.

唯有当我自己的道德、品行、学问和才能、技艺不如别人我该勉励自己努力的去改进.

若衣服 若饮食 不如人 勿生戚 If the clothes I wear, and the food I eat and drink are not as good as that of

others , I should not be concerned.

如果只是自己的衣服和饮食不如人,不要为此而忧戚感到惭愧.

闻过怒 闻誉乐 损友来 益友却 If criticism makes me angry and compliments make me happy ,bad company will come my way and good friends will shy away. 如我听到别人的批评,就会生气;听到别人赞美,就会感到高兴;坏朋友会接踵而来,好朋友会远离我而去. 闻誉恐 闻过欣 直谅士 渐相亲 If I am uneasy about compliments and appreciative of criticism, then sincere, understanding,, and virtuous people will gradually come close to me . 如我听到别人赞叹,就起恐慌;听到别人批评,反而感到高兴;有诚信又能谅解我的道德人士,才会逐渐愿意与我亲近. 无心非 名为错 有心非 名为恶 If any mistake I make is inadvertent, it is merely a mistake. If it is done on purpose, however, it is an evil act.

如果自己无意犯了过失,那只是一个错误.如果是有意的,那就是在造恶.

过能改 归于无 倘掩饰 增一辜 If I correct my mistake and do not repeat it, I no longer own the mistake. If I try to cover it up, I will be doubly wrong.

如果自己能把过失改正不再造,就不再有过失.如果自己犯了过失不承认,还想去掩饰它,那就是错上加错.

爱 Love 汎爱众 Chapter 5 Love all equally 第五章 平等的爱护一切众生 凡是人 皆须爱 天同覆 地同载 Human beings, regardless of nationality, race, or religion-everyone-should be loved equally. We are all sheltered by their same sky and we all live on the same planet Earth.

只要是人,不分国家种族宗教都应该要平等的爱护.我们被同一个天空庇护着,我们同住在一个地球上.

行高者 名自高 人所重 非貌高 A person of high ideals and morals is highly respected. What people value is not based on outside appearance.

有崇高理想及道德水准的人,名望自然就高.人们重视的,并非在一个人的外表.

才大者 望自大 人所服 非言大 A person’s outstanding abilities will naturally endow him with a good reputation. Admiration from others does not come from boasting or praising oneself.

才能出众的人,名望自然大,人们所服从的,绝非因为一个人会说大话.

己有能 勿自私 人所能 勿轻訾 If I am a very capable person, I should use my capabilities for the benefit of others.

Others people’s competence should never be slandered.

如果自己有能力有才干,不要把自己的能力才干用作享受,要服务于大众.对别人的能力

才干,不要轻易的毁谤.

勿谄富 勿骄贫 勿厌故 勿喜新 I will not flatter the rich, or despise the poor. I will not ignore old friends, only taking delight in new ones

不要谄媚有财富的人,不要瞧不起贫苦的人.不要厌弃旧朋友,只喜欢新交的朋友.

人不闲 勿事搅 人不安 勿话扰 When a person is busy, I will not bother him with matters. When a person’s mind is not at ease, I will not bother him with words.

当别人正在忙,不要用事去打扰他,当别人的心正感到不安,不要用话去打扰他.

人有短 切莫揭 人有私 切莫说 If a person has a shortcoming, I will not expose it. If a person has a secret, I will not tell others.

别人的缺点和短处,不要故意去揭穿它.别人的私事和秘密,不要去说给别人听.

道人善 即是善 人知之 愈思勉 Praising the goodness of others is good deed in itself. When people are being

praised and approved of, they will be encouraged to try even harder.

称赞别人的善,是一件善行.当别人知道自己被受肯定,就会愈加勉励自己要更加精进.

扬人恶 即是恶 疾之甚 祸且作 Spreading rumors about the wrongdoings of others is a wrongdoing in itself. When the harm done has reached the extreme, misfortunes will surely follow.

宣扬别人恶,是件恶事.做多了,当伤害达到了极处,灾祸就跟着降临了.

善相劝 德皆建 过不规 道两亏 When I encourage another to do good, both of our virtues are built up. If I do not tell another of his faults, we are both wrong.

如我们能互相劝勉向善,彼此的德行都会因此而建立.如朋友有过失,我不告诉他,我们双方都是错的.

凡取予 贵分晓 予宜多 即速己 Whether I take or give, I need to know the difference between the two. It is better to give more and take less.

无论是拿还是给,要知道它们有什么不同.要给的更多,拿的要少.

将加人 先问己 己不欲 即速已 What I ask others to do, I must first ask myself if I would be willing to do. If it is not something I would be willing to do, I will not ask others to do it .

我要求别人做的事,要先问自己愿不愿意做.自己不愿意做的事,不要要求别人去做.

恩欲报 怨欲忘 抱怨短 报恩长 I must repay the kindness of others and let go of my resentments. I will spend less time holding grudges and more time paying back the kindness of others. 别人给我的恩惠,我一定要报答.我对别人的怨恨,一定要忘记.我抱怨的时间要越短越好,想报答别人的恩惠的心要长远. 待婢仆 身贵端 虽贵端 慈而宽 When I am directing maids and servants, I will act honorably and properly. I will also treat them kindly and generously .

对待侍女和仆人,自己要端庄有礼.虽然自己的端庄有礼很重要,待他们要慈祥,要宽厚.

势服人 心不然 理服人 方无言 If I use my influence to make them submissive, their hearts will not be with me. If I can convince them with sound reasoning, they will have nothing to object to.

如果自己利用权势使他们服从,他们心里会不以为然.如果我能以理来劝服他们,他们才会无话可说.

亲仁 Chapter 6 Be Close to and Learn from People of Virtue and Compassion 第六章 亲近仁慈以及有德行的人向他们学习 同是人 类不齐 流俗众 仁者希 We are all human, but we are not the same. Most of us are ordinary; only a very few have great virtues and high moral principles.

我们虽然都是人,但不同类,大多数人都很平凡,唯有极少数的人,有至大至善的品行道德.

果仁者 人多畏 言不讳 色不媚 A truly virtuous person is greatly respected by others. He will not be afraid to speak the truth and he will not fawn on others.

果真是一位有品行的人,人们会很敬畏他.他不怕说真话,也不会去奉承或讨好别人.

能亲仁 无限好 德日进 过日少 I can be close to and learn from people of great virtue and compassion, I will benefit immensely. My virtues will grow daily and my wrongdoings will lesson day by day.

如果我能亲近又能跟随一位有德行的人学习,我能得到无限的好处.我的德行日日会有进步,过失会天天减少.

不亲仁 无限害 小人进 百事坏 If I choose not to be close to and learn from people of great virtue, I will suffer a great loss. People without virtue will get close to me and nothing I attempt will succeed.

如果我不肯亲近又不肯跟有德行的人学习,我的损失是很大的.没有德行的小人,会跟我越来越近,到时无论我做什么事都不会成功.

余力 学文 Chapter 7 After all the above are accomplished, I should study further and learn literature and art to improve my cultural and spiritual life. 第七章 当本份的事情做好了,再学习研究文学艺术来提升自己的精神生活品质

不力行 但学文 长浮华 成何人 If I do not actively practice what I have learned, but continue to study on the surface, even though my knowledge is increasing, it is only superficial. What kind of person will I be?

如果我不积极去落实自己所学,只是再表面上作功夫,持续不断的学文,那只能使我浮而不实.我将会成为一个什么样的人呢?

但力行 不学文 任己见 昧理真 If I do apply my knowledge diligently, but stop studying, I will only do things based on my own opinion, thinking it is correct. In fact, what I know is not the truth.

但是如果我积极去落实自己所学,却不肯再继续深造,任凭自己的见解,信以为真,其实我对事实的真相还是并不明了.

读书法 有三到 心眼口 信皆要 There are methods to study correctly. They involve concentration in three areas: my mind, my eyes, and my mouth. To believe in what I read is equally important.

读书的方法,必须把注意力集中到三点:到心、到眼、到口。对圣贤人的教诲,要相信,要照着去做,这都是很重要的.

方读此 勿慕彼 此未终 彼勿起 When I begin to read a book, I will not think about another. If I have not completed the book, I will not start another.

刚开始读一本书,心里不要去想着另一本书.这本书还没读完,不要开始读另一本书.

宽为限 紧用功 工夫到 滞塞通 I will give myself lots of time to study, and I will study hard. If I devote enough time and effort, I will thoroughly understand.

要给自己宽裕的时间读书,要加紧用功.当自己的工夫成熟了,自然一切都明了.

心有疑 随札记 就人问 求确义 If I have a question, I will make a note of it. I will ask the person who has the knowledge for the right answer.

心里如有疑问,要随手把它记录下来,向有学问的人请教,为的是要求取一个正确的解答.

房室清 墙壁净 几案洁 笔砚正 I will keep my room neat, my walls and uncluttered and clean, my desk tidy and my brush and inkstone properly placed.

房间要保持整齐清洁,墙壁要保持干净,自己的书桌要保持整洁,毛笔砚台要放端正.

墨磨偏 心不端 字不敬 心先病 If my ink block is ground unevenly, it shows I have a poor state of mind. When words are written carelessly, showing no respect, this shows my state of mind has not been well.

墨条如果被磨的偏向一边,就会显示出自己的心不偏正.如字写的潦草不恭敬,就会表示自己的心地不正常.

列典籍 有定处 读看毕 还原处 My book should be classified, placed on the bookshelves, and in their proper places. After I finish reading a book, I will put it back where it belongs.

书籍归类后,要按次序排放在书架或书橱上,要有它们固定的位置.书读看完毕后,要放还原处.

虽有急 卷束齐 有缺坏 就补之 Even if I am in a hurry, I still must neatly roll up and bind the open bamboo scroll I have been reading. All missing or damaged pages ought to be immediately repaired.

虽然有急事,打开的书卷还是要卷起来捆绑整齐.见到有残缺损害的地方,要马上把它修

补好.

非圣贤 屏勿视 蔽聪明 坏心志 If it is not a book on the teaching of the saints and sages, it should be discarded and not even looked at. Such books can block my intelligence and wisdom, and will undermine my aspirations and sense of direction.

如果不是圣贤的书籍,要丢掉一律不看.这一类书籍会闭塞自己的聪明才智,败坏自己的心志趣向.

勿自暴 勿自弃 圣与贤 可驯致 Neither be harsh on myself, nor give up on myself. To be a person of high ideals, moral standards and virtues is something we can all attain in time.

我们要爱惜自己,不要甘于堕落.只要肯真干,成圣成贤是人人渐渐都可以做到的.