Zeng Guofan, a prominent statesman of the late Qing Dynasty, made a significant impact on politics, military affairs, culture, and economics. Beyond his high-ranking official status, he was also well-respected for his principles in life and conduct, which can lead to fortune. His approach to personal and professional matters earned him admiration from later generations, leading to titles such as “the greatest man of modern China” and “a model of virtue across the ages.”
In The Family Letters of Zeng Guofan, he imparted this wisdom to his descendants:
“A scholar refrains from three kinds of contention: Do not compete with virtuous men for reputation, do not fight with petty people over profit, and do not struggle against fate for control.”
These three principles serve as invaluable guidance, reminding us that avoiding unnecessary conflict can lead to a more prosperous and fulfilling life. Those who follow these principles will find that the road ahead becomes broader, and fortune naturally follows.
Do not compete with virtuous men for reputation
For a person of integrity, reputation is more valuable than life itself. While some may view fame as fleeting, history has proven that virtuous individuals take their reputation seriously.
An ancient saying from Shuoyuan — Miscellaneous Sayings states:
“A noble man cherishes his words, just as a peacock treasures its feathers and a tiger values its claws.”
This analogy highlights how noble individuals protect their reputation as instinctively as animals guard their survival tools. Even in today’s world, there are still those who uphold integrity, refusing to compromise their values for personal gain.
When dealing with such individuals, it is best to treat them respectfully — neither flattering nor competing with them. Instead, acknowledge their virtues and learn from them. They are worthy of admiration, not rivalry.
Do not fight with petty people over profit
Confucius once said: “A gentleman understands righteousness, while a petty person only understands profit.”
For small-minded individuals, personal gain takes precedence over everything else. They may resort to deception, pretend to befriend you, or even sabotage you behind your back — all in pursuit of their own interests. Is it truly worth engaging in conflict with such people?
Petty individuals are far more common than virtuous ones. They focus solely on personal advantage, regardless of the harm they cause to others. The saying goes: “A noble man discerns right from wrong, while a petty man only calculates gains and losses.” This reveals the fundamental difference in values — those who lack integrity will always prioritize profit, even at the expense of others.
Thus, it is wise to avoid competing with them. Engaging in such conflicts only drains energy and leads to unnecessary troubles.
Do not struggle against fate for control
Zeng Guofan once remarked:
“In accomplishing great things, human effort accounts for half, while destiny determines the rest.”
This means that success depends not only on hard work, but also on divine will and timing. The phrase “Man proposes, but heaven disposes“ encapsulates this idea — effort is crucial, but the final outcome is beyond human control.
In traditional Chinese belief, divine will is the manifestation of the gods’ intentions. Disregarding fate or attempting to defy it often leads to misfortune. The saying “Heaven’s will cannot be opposed” applies to everyone, even emperors. Those who attempt to alter destiny usually face dire consequences.
One historical example comes from the Tang Dynasty. The Records of the Court and the People recount an incident where Emperor Taizong discovered a prophecy predicting that a female ruler would seize the throne after three generations. Alarmed, he consulted the scholar Li Chunfeng, asking whether he should eliminate the woman who was destined to rule.
Li Chunfeng advised against it, explaining:
“This is heaven’s will and cannot be altered. Even if she is eliminated now, she will be reborn and still fulfill her destiny. If she is spared, she will eventually grow old and become merciful, sparing the emperor’s descendants. But if she is killed prematurely, she may return as a younger and more ruthless ruler, leaving no survivors.”
Emperor Taizong heeded the warning and chose not to interfere. The woman in question was Wu Zetian, who later ascended to power. Her reign stabilized the empire during a time of weak successors, and in the end, she returned rule to the Tang Dynasty, ensuring the continuity of the imperial lineage.
This story illustrates that some events are beyond human control. Rather than resisting fate, it is often wiser to go with the flow and adapt. Those who defy destiny may invite disaster upon themselves.
Embracing a life of wisdom and fortune
Zeng Guofan’s three principles remind us that true wisdom lies in choosing our battles wisely. Avoiding unnecessary conflicts — whether over reputation, profit, or control — allows life to unfold more smoothly. When we act with humility, integrity, and acceptance, fortune often arrives unbidden, and our paths become broader and more promising.
Translated article
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