This passage comes from the first chapter of The Analects, "Xue Er": "Master Zeng said: 'I daily examine myself on three points: In planning for others, have I been Zhong (Loyal/Devoted)? In association with friends, have I been Xin (Trustworthy)? Have I practiced what was transmitted to me?'"
Confucius's student Zeng Shen (Zengzi, a diligent and dedicated disciple) was hardworking and deeply loved by Confucius. When classmates asked why he progressed so quickly, Zeng Shen said: "I examine myself many times each day: Have I been less than wholehearted when planning for others? Have I been less than trustworthy in my dealings with friends? Have I failed to review the teachings imparted by my master?"
Confucianism places great emphasis on personal moral cultivation in order to shape an ideal character. The practice of self-examination mentioned here is a fundamental method of self-cultivation.
During the Spring and Autumn Period, society underwent drastic changes, reflected in the realm of consciousness as people's beliefs and thoughts began to waver, and traditional concepts seemed to face a crisis in their minds. Thus, Zeng Shen (a disciple of Confucius) proposed the method of self-cultivation through "introspection and internal seeking," constantly examining one's own words and deeds to cultivate a perfect character. The Analects frequently discusses the issue of self-reflection, requiring Confucius's disciples to consciously examine themselves, engage in self-criticism, strengthen their personal and moral cultivation, and correct various errors in their words and actions. This method of moral cultivation through self-reflection still holds value for reference today, as it particularly emphasizes the consciousness required for self-cultivation.
Zengzi (a disciple of Confucius) also proposed the concepts of Zhong (Loyalty/Devotion) and Xin (Trustworthiness/Integrity). The characteristic of Zhong is the idea of "exhausting oneself" (尽)—doing one's utmost in affairs until death. As later Confucians said, "Exhausting oneself is called Zhong." The question "Have I been unfaithful in planning for others?" refers broadly to all people, not specifically to rulers. It means doing one's best to help everyone, including rulers. Therefore, during the pre-Qin period, Zhong was a general moral category, not limited to the ruler-subject relationship. After the Han dynasty, Zhong gradually evolved into "loyalty to the ruler" (忠君). While this is related to the Confucian concept of Zhong, there are important differences. Xin has two meanings: first, trust; second, credibility. Its content is honesty and not deceiving, used to handle relationships between superiors and subordinates and among friends. Xin is particularly connected to speech, meaning telling the truth and keeping one's word. This is the foundation of a person's conduct and standing in society.