Podcast: The Analects, Teachings of Confucius

The Analects, also called the Sayings of Confucius, is an ancient Chinese philosophical text containing the teachings and ideas of Confucius and his followers. It was likely compiled during the Warring States period (475–221 BC) and finalized in the Han dynasty (206 BC–220 AD).

Initially regarded as a commentary on the Five Classics, it later became a core text of Confucianism by the end of the Han dynasty. The Analects emphasizes values like benevolence (ren), ritual propriety (li), filial piety (xiao), and the ideal of the virtuous person (junzi).

Its teachings focus on personal ethics, social harmony, and effective leadership, making it one of the most influential works in Chinese philosophy and culture.