There are three things which the superior man guards…
“There are three things which the superior man guards against. In youth ... lust. When he is strong ... quarrelsomeness. When he is old ... covetousness.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A superior person avoids lust in youth, quarrelsomeness in strength, and covetousness in old age.
In simple terms: Guard against desire, conflict, greed at each life stage.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate virtue appropriate to age.
Themes
virtue
self‑control
life stages
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership
- parenting
Key Concepts
confucian ethics
morality
Questions to Reflect On
- What desire challenges you most now?
- How can you practice moderation?
A Different Perspective
Balancing desires is complex; context matters.