《朱子家训》英译

黎明即起，洒扫庭除，要内外整洁；既昏便息，关锁门户，必亲自检点。<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

 

Arise at peep of day, sprinkle water and sweep the courtyard and the steps; the inside and outside must be orderly and clean. Rest when it is dark, personally check the closing and locking of doors and windows.

 

一粥一饭，当思来处不易；半丝半缕，恒念物力维艰。

 

Whether broth or cooked rice, remember it is not easy to come by, for half a piece of silk or cotton thread, think of the difficulty in production.

 

宜未雨而绸缪，毋临渴而掘井。

 

Prepare for rainy days; do not wait for thirst before you dig a well.

 

自奉必须俭约，宴客切勿流连。

 

Live frugally and do not give protracted parties.

 

器具质而洁，瓦缶胜金玉；饭食约而精，园蔬逾珍馐。

 

If utensils be plain and clean, pottery is better than gold and jade. If there is moderation and choice in food, vegetables are better than costly delicacies.

 

勿营华屋，勿谋良田。

 

Do not build luxurious houses; do not scheme for rich land.

 

三姑六婆，实淫盗之媒；婢美妾娇，非闺房之福。

 

The three ku and six po are evil go-betweens; pretty maids and lovely concubines are not a blessing to the boudoir.

 

奴仆勿用俊美，妻妾切忌艳妆。

 

Do not use the smart and handsome for servants; wives and concubines should not wear seductive makeup.

 

祖宗虽远，祭祀不可不诚；子孙虽愚，经书不可不读。

 

Be sincere and respectful in offering sacrifices though the ancestors may be distant; the classics must be taught though the descendants may be stupid.

 

居身务期质朴，教子要有义方。

 

Conduct yourself with frugality and simplicity; teach your sons with uprightness.