The following text is the portion of the Da Xue which is supposed to be the words of Confucius handed down by Zeng-zi. The remainder of the Da Xue which is a commentary by Zeng-zi on this text has not been included in this collection. The Way of higher education is cultivated and practiced by manifesting the enlightening character of spiritual power, loving the people as they grow, and living in the highest good. By knowing how to live in the highest good, purpose is directed. When purpose is directed, calm clarity results.
Calm clarity leads to peaceful poise.
Peaceful poise leads to careful deliberation. Careful deliberation leads to success. To understand what is first and last will lead one near the Way. The ancients who wished to manifest the enlightening character of spiritual power to the world would first bring order to their government. Wishing to bring order to their government, they would first bring harmony to their families.