"学必精，行必实" (Xue bi jing, xing bi shi) - Learning must be precise, doing must be real
The quote "学必精，行必实" (Xue bi jing, xing bi shi) by Zhang Zhidong emphasizes the importance of both theoretical knowledge (学/xue) and practical application (行/xing). It suggests that learning should be precise, thorough, and accurate to ensure a solid foundation for future actions. Similarly, doing must be real or practical, indicating that theoretical knowledge should always translate into tangible actions or results. This quote encourages the balanced development of both intellectual and practical skills for a well-rounded individual.
"国强不在大兵多，国强在民多智多" (Guo qiang bu zai da bing duo, guo qiang zai min duo zhi duo) - A strong country does not lie in having many soldiers; a strong country lies in having many people who are wise.
This quote by Zhang Zhidong underscores the importance of education, intellect, and the collective wisdom of the population for a nation's strength. It suggests that a strong country is not merely defined by its military power, but more significantly by the intelligence and number of its citizens. In essence, it highlights the value of human capital in shaping a powerful and resilient nation.
"庶民之利，天下之贵" (Su min zhi li, tanding zhi gui) - The welfare of the masses is the most precious thing in the world.
This quote by Zhang Zhidong emphasizes that the well-being and prosperity of the common people is the greatest treasure for any nation or society. It underscores his belief in prioritizing the needs, welfare, and happiness of the masses, recognizing their crucial role in the overall success and stability of a country. This perspective highlights the importance of social equality, justice, and fairness as fundamental values in governance and societal development.
"学问不能夸大，行事必当谨慎" (Xue wen bu neng ka da, xing shi bi dang jian an) - Knowledge should not be exaggerated, and one's actions must always be cautious.
Zhang Zhidong's quote "学问不能夸大，行事必当谨慎" emphasizes the importance of humility in acquiring knowledge and prudence in one's actions. In other words, we should be mindful not to overestimate our own knowledge or intellect, and we must always approach our deeds with caution and care, recognizing that wisdom comes from a balanced understanding and proper application of our knowledge. This quote is particularly relevant today as it encourages individuals to strive for continuous learning while acknowledging the limitations of their understanding and exercising careful judgment in their actions.
"教育之用，不在培馈人物，而在培馈国家" (Jiao yu zhi yong, bu zai pei fu ren wu, er zai pei fu guo jia) - The purpose of education is not to produce individuals but to cultivate a nation.
This quote by Zhang Zhidong emphasizes the primary function of education lies in developing a nation rather than just nurturing individuals. It suggests that the goal of education should extend beyond personal growth, focusing instead on the collective betterment of society and the nation. In essence, this perspective positions education as a national project, aimed at creating a strong and prosperous country by cultivating citizens who are capable, responsible, and aligned with the values and goals of the nation.
If the Chinese will not learn the true principles of government, all else will be useless. Knowledge is power, and although a country may be weak, still, if it possess but a modicum of knowledge, the enemy will not be able to completely overthrow it; although that country may be in danger, the race will not be extirpated.
- Zhang Zhidong
If a Chinese student does not know Chinese learning, it's like a person without a surname, a horse without a bridle, a boat without a helm. The more Western learning he possesses, the more hateful of China he will become. Even if he becomes a capable man of vast learning, how can he be of any use to the state?
- Zhang Zhidong
I understand that the tendency of foreign countries in recent years has been to establish particularly close relations with one or two others among all the countries which have general relations. In time of peace, they make secret treaties in advance, and in wartime, they aid one another with military provisions and armaments.
- Zhang Zhidong
If, in the schools, the classical language would no longer be taught, whom could we entrust with the writing of memorials, documents, letters and notes in the public service? How could we possibly assign important offices and heavy responsibilities to someone who cannot even write fluently?
- Zhang Zhidong
The dependencies of inner and outer Mongolia are the bulwarks of China. The desert of Gobi, stretching for ten thousand li, is a barrier set by Heaven to the Russians, and if they seek to invade our borders, they will find it everywhere along the Northern frontier difficult and troublesome.
- Zhang Zhidong
If, by one determined purpose, the hearts of all the graduates, the officials, and the men of China were united, our country would rest upon a great rock, and we could defy the world to overthrow us. To attain this object, it is necessary first that every man should fulfill his duty to his parents and elders. The country would then be at peace.
- Zhang Zhidong
We must assent to the will of Heaven above and conform to the wishes of men on earth below, but the government should assert the majesty of its warlike might in order to drive away the hordes of fierce and cruel men. We know that the dispositions of these outer barbarians are as ravenous as those of wolves.
- Zhang Zhidong
Let us display our loyalty and love and embrace every opportunity to become wealthy and strong; let our first object be the veneration of the Imperial Court, which vouchsafes its protection to the commonwealth, and let those who hold the reins of government consider the general good.
- Zhang Zhidong
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