原文：
孔曰成仁，孟曰取义
为其义尽，所以仁至
读圣贤书，所谓何事
而今而后，庶几无愧
- 文天祥
Translation:
Confucius taught to achieve Ren*, Mencius taught to take Yi*.
Only when Yi is carried out to the fullest, Ren can be finally achieved.
What is the purpose of studying books from Saints?
From this moment and all times onwards, no single guilt occurs in heart.
- Wen Tianxiang
This poem is the last words Wen Tianxiang left to his family and the world.
Wen Tianxiang is highly recognized for his loyalty and patriotism. Regardless of threats or temptations, he refused to surrender and serve the enemy country. His enemy conquered his country, but failed to conquer his mind. He was sent to sentence and this poem was found written inside of his clothes, with blood.
*Ren & Yi are the pinyin of the original Chinese words. I couldn't find satisfying English words to match with their meanings. Ren & Yi are key words in the teaching of Confucianism. Ren, refers to being in the state of one’s true nature. It is more of a word to describe spirit. Yi, means the actions one carries out when the person’s mind is in the state of Ren. Therefore, Ren-Yi come in pair. Ren is internal, Yi is the presentation of Ren, out in action.
Wen Tianxiang asked a soul level question: what’s the purpose of learning holy teachings? The aim is not to gain good names, not even to earn a safe and well-rounded life… The answer is guilt-free.
The True Self desires nothing but the performance that can reveal its identity - the virtues. Guilt is severe tragedy to spirit. Because guilt means betrayal of true nature. That is ignoring the True Self and do opposite things to its characters.
Have you ever done something, and end up despising yourself? That.
Holy teachings from Saints are guidance on realizing True Self and live life according to the True Self. What is the fulfilling result? Live life without guilt.
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