Using three examples — Qi-Diao Kai, Zi Lu sending Zi Gao, and Zeng Dian expressing his aspiration — to show the sage teaches according to each person's aptitude, without rigid formulas.
"The sage teaches according to aptitude, without rigid formulas."
Someone asked: "When Confucius's disciples stated their aspirations — the talents of You, Qiu, and Chi — why did the Master approve of all three?"
The Master said: "The talents of these three were outstanding and formed complete patterns, not merely small achievements. So the sage approved them. Yet among the three, there were also times the sage restrained them — like asking why You's zither was played at Qiu's door, or making Zi Gao steward of Fei. As for Zeng Dian stating his aspiration, the sage alone praised him. This shows the sage's intention to teach according to each person's aptitude, without rigid formulas."
Someone asked: "When Confucius's disciples stated their aspirations — the talents of You, Qiu, and Chi — why did the Master approve of all three?"
The Master said: "The talents of these three were outstanding and formed complete patterns, not merely small achievements. So the sage approved them. Yet among the three, there were also times the sage restrained them — like asking why You's zither was played at Qiu's door, or making Zi Gao steward of Fei. As for Zeng Dian stating his aspiration, the sage alone praised him. This shows the sage's intention to teach according to each person's aptitude, without rigid formulas."
Different people need different approaches. Flexibility is the mark of great teaching. Understand each person's strengths and guide accordingly.
"Teaching according to aptitude, without rigid formulas."
Yangming highlights Confucius's pedagogical flexibility. The three disciples had different temperaments and different strengths — Confucius responded to each differently. He praised Zeng Dian's transcendent vision while also valuing the practical contributions of the others. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to education.