Zuo Zongtang (1812-1885), with the courtesy name of Jigao, was born in Xiangyin, Hunan Province. He was a famous general of the Xiang Army and one of the “Four Great Ministers” of the Late Qing Dynasty. Throughout his life, he played a crucial role in significant historical events, including the suppression of the Taiping Rebellion, the Self-Strengthening Movement, the quelling of the Shaanxi-Gansu Hui Rebellion, and the reconquest of Xinjiang.
From a young age, Zuo Zongtang was bright and intelligent. At 14, he ranked first in the imperial examination. He once penned a couplet: “With not a penny to my name, I worry for the world; immersed in countless scrolls, I converse with ancient sages.” He left behind eight famous sayings that have influenced generations. Let’s delve into the worldly wisdom of Zuo Zongtang.
Zuo Zongtang’s 8 famous quotes
1. ‘Those obsessed with bargains should not be entrusted with finances. Those who are overly suspicious should not be consulted in planning.’
Interpretation: One who is constantly seeking bargains will inevitably lead to unpleasant dealings when managing finances. A person who is always doubtful is not someone with whom you can effectively collaborate. Zeng Guofan once remarked: “Collaborating with the mistrustful ensures the endeavor’s failure. Working with the greedy ensures personal inconvenience.”
When matters involve money, complexities often arise. Those who constantly seek advantages may eventually find they gain little. “Money is but dirt, while honor is invaluable.” It’s best to avoid financial entanglements with such individuals. Naturally, suspicious people are fickle and cannot concentrate, making significant accomplishments elusive. The simplest tasks become complicated in their presence, becoming an obstacle to progress. Thus, if you seek success, avoid those who are indecisive.
2. ‘With no land to my name, I worry for the world; immersed in many scrolls, I converse with ancient sages.’
Interpretation: Even without personal wealth, one can still be deeply concerned about the nation’s destiny. Extensive reading connects us spiritually to ancient wisdom. Hence, those aspiring to achieve great things must first possess lofty ambitions.
3. ‘Aim for the highest goals, bond with average connections; enjoy the simplest blessings, stand at high vantage points, sit in common places, and walk through spacious paths.’
Interpretation: Possess high aspirations, lead an ordinary life, observe things from a broader perspective, act humbly in society, and always leave room for flexibility. To “bond with average connections” and “sit in common places” means to be grounded and prudent.
The greatest honor doesn’t come from boasting about achievements, but from being genuine. After highs often come lows. Live with self-discipline and give yourself room when acting. Appreciating what one has without being greedy prevents loss.
4. ‘In times of poverty and despair, do not let others belittle you. In days of success and prosperity, do not invite envy.’
Interpretation: During hardships, maintain your dignity and resist humiliation. When thriving, be humble and modest to prevent arousing envy. When Zuo Zongtang began his career, he seized opportunities to showcase his talent and resisted any attempts at oppression. As he climbed the ranks, he became more modest and balanced.
Though talent and ambition might be stifled in adversity, perseverance will eventually reveal opportunities. One must recognize when to assert themselves and when to be humble. After gaining prominence, one should cultivate personal virtues and maintain a noble heart, ensuring kindness in daily interactions and steadiness during challenges, preventing resentment.
5. ‘True men withstand life’s grind; only mediocrities go without envy.’
Interpretation: Life inevitably presents challenges, and only those who persevere can be deemed strong. Exceptional talent will inevitably invite envy; if there’s none, it speaks to mediocrity. Life is about growth and endurance. Every life event tests us. Both success and failure are trials. The truly great can withstand these trials. Mediocrity and incompetence do not invite envy. Others’ jealousy attests to one’s excellence.
6. ‘Of all that exists, none can encapsulate the universe; of all emotions, none resonate through past and present.’
Interpretation: Everything in the world is a combination of conditions. Change one state, and everything changes. Lovers might become strangers; close friends may become enemies over conflicts of interest. Youth and beauty fade with age. Nothing is permanent. To truly live, seize the present. When you grasp every moment, you get eternity.
7. ‘Reading an unfamiliar book is like making a new friend; revisiting a known book is like meeting an old friend.’
Interpretation: Reading expands our lives. A good book is akin to a conversation with noble souls. A life without books is as hollow as an empty bamboo stalk. Numerous wise individuals throughout history have emphasized the importance of reading quality books.
8. ‘For oneself, it’s better to err on the side of frugality; in treating others, it’s better to err on the side of generosity. Be simple and economical in all things; wastefulness is not an option. This is the way to cherish blessings and preserve family wealth.’
Interpretation: Being frugal is the way of personal cultivation and household management. Luxuries often lead to ruin. Spend within your means.
