三字经英文翻译与原文

The ThreeCharacter Classic: An English Translation

The ThreeCharacter Classic (三字经) is a classic Chinese text that succinctly summarizes Confucian teachings, Chinese history, and societal norms in just threecharacter verses. Below is an English translation of the ThreeCharacter Classic:

Introduction

The ThreeCharacter Classic is a primer for children to learn Confucian values, history, and language in ancient China. It encapsulates essential teachings in concise verses of three characters each.

Chapter 1: On Confucian Values

人之初，性本善，性相近，习相远。

People at birth are naturally good; their natures are similar; their habits become different.

苟不教，性乃迁，教之道，贵以专。

If not taught, one’s nature will deteriorate. The way of teaching is to emphasize focus.

Chapter 2: On Family Harmony

昔孟母，择邻处，子不学，断机杼。

In ancient times, Mencius' mother chose a neighborhood, not a home, that lacked a good school. Her son didn't study, but instead played with a spinning wheel.

窦燕山，有义方，教五子，名俱扬。

Dou Yan Shan had a righteous way, teaching his five sons who became famous.

Chapter 3: On Social Ethics

养不教，父之过；教不严，师之惰。

To raise without teaching is the fault of the father; to teach without strictness is the laziness of the teacher.

子不学，非所宜；幼不学，老何为？

If a child does not learn, it is not appropriate. If one does not learn when young, what will one do when old?

Chapter 4: On Governing Principles

玉不琢，不成器；人不学，不知义。

Without polishing, jade cannot become useful; without learning, people cannot understand principles.

为人子，方少时；亲师友，习礼仪。

As a child, one should respect one's parents and teachers, and befriend righteous people, learning propriety and etiquette.

Chapter 5: On Moral Integrity

香九龄，能温席；孝于亲，所当执。

At nine, Xiang was able to warm his father's bed; filial piety towards parents should be prioritized.

融四岁，能让梨；弟于长，宜先知。

At four, Rong was able to yield a pear; respecting elders, one should first know how.

Chapter 6: On Filial Piety

首孝悌，次见闻；知某数，识某文。

First, be filial and respectful; then, learn about the world and its affairs. Know arithmetic and recognize characters.

一而十，十而百，百而千，千而万。

One becomes ten, ten becomes a hundred, a hundred becomes a thousand, a thousand becomes ten thousand.

Conclusion

The ThreeCharacter Classic serves as a foundational text for moral education and cultural heritage in China. Its concise verses continue to impart wisdom and values to generations.

This translation aims to capture the essence of the original text while making it accessible to Englishspeaking audiences.