When humans are born, they are inherently good. Their natures are similar, but their habits are far apart.

If you don’t teach, your nature will change. The way to teach is to be specialized.

If a child does not learn, it is not appropriate; if a child does not learn, what will he do as an old man?

If jade is not polished, it will not become a tool; if a person does not learn, he will not know righteousness.

Notes

1. In the beginning, human beings are inherently good by nature, similar in nature and far apart in habits.

Translation: All people are good when they are born, but due to the different learning environment acquired during the growth process, there are differences in temperament between good and bad.

2. If you don’t teach, your nature will change. The way to teach is to be specialized. Translation: If you are not educated well since childhood, your good nature will turn bad. In order to prevent people from becoming bad, the most important way is to educate children with concentration.

3. If a child does not learn, it is inappropriate; if a child does not learn, what will he do as an old man? Translation: It is very inappropriate for children to refuse to study hard. If a person doesn't study hard when he is young, and he neither understands the principles of life nor has knowledge when he is old, what good will he do?

4. If jade is not polished, it will not become a useful tool; if a person does not learn, he will not know the meaning.

Translation If jade is not polished and carved, it will not become an exquisite utensil; if a person does not learn, he will not understand etiquette and will not become a talent.