The Master said of Gong Yechang, “He is marriageable…
“The Master said of Gong Yechang, “He is marriageable. Although he was once imprisoned and branded as a criminal, he was in fact innocent of any crime.” The Master gave him his daughter in marriage. (Analects 5.1)”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A man judged as a criminal may be innocent; the Master sees beyond reputation and offers compassion.
In simple terms: People can be innocent despite bad labels.
Look beyond labels to see true character.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- court decisions
- family alliances
- social reintegration
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we evaluate character beyond reputation?
- What role should forgiveness play in justice?
Societal bias can still dominate despite evidence.