Methods of Obtaining Wisdom
Using Reflection, Imitation, and Experience to Gain Wisdom
“By three methods we may learn wisdom; First, by reflection, which is the noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”
- Confucius
This quote is one that is very intriguing on a few levels. But before we go into more detail about this, let’s look at the definitions of the important words so we can better understand what the quote is telling us…
DEFINITIONS
Wisdom: the quality of having experience, knowledge, & good judgement
Reflection: serious thought or consideration
Noblest: having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles & ideals
Imitation: the action of using someone or something as a model to copy
Easy: achieved without great effort
Experience: practical contact with & observation of facts or events
Bitter (relating to people’s feelings or behavior): angry, hurt, or resentful because of one’s bad experiences or sense of unjust treatment
Now that we are the same page as far as the terminology is concerned, we can get to the heart of the discussion…
1) “First, by reflection, which is the noblest.”
This is probably the most important lesson this quote can offer on the path to wisdom. Reflection is the linchpin by which the other methods work on the mind to make a person wiser. This is the noblest because it shows that the person can reflect on their actions which gives them a valuable perspective on what their behavior means moving forward.
2) “Second, by imitation, which is easiest.”
Like the quote says, this is the easiest method due to the fact it requires the least effort to accomplish. This method is the most susceptible to issues. Even though this method can be a good starting point for many, it is not something that is recommended in the long run, as it is not the best method for developing good judgment. Like the definition of wisdom says, good judgement is an important piece of the puzzle when trying to attain all around wisdom.
3) “Third, by experience, which is the bitterest.”
This method is the harshest when it comes to obtaining wisdom, but it is just as essential as the other methods discussed above. No one is exempt from the sting of this method regardless of how hard one tries. Time is something that takes its toll on everyone. However, experiences can be good or bad even though this quote points to the latter. The good experiences teach us what to do & bad experiences teach us what not to do in the future.
We are all students in some form, whether of martial arts or something else. Perhaps it is human nature to hyper-focus on one of the above methods more than the others, even though we may not even realize that we are doing so. This quote acts as a reminder to always balance the three and be aware of the guidance each of the above methods provides on the journey to wisdom.