The four books refer to The University, The Analects of Confucius, Mencius and The Doctrine of the Mean. University is an introductory book for beginners of Confucian moral thought, The Analects of Confucius is one of the important classics of Confucianism, Mencius is a book that records Mencius' words and deeds, and The Doctrine of the Mean is also one of the most classic books of Taoism.

The books represented by the four books

The four books refer to The University, The Analects of Confucius, Mencius and The Doctrine of the Mean, which are the core carriers of Confucianism. University was originally an article in the Book of Rites. According to legend, it is compiled for Confucius disciples to sort out what Confucius taught, and it is also an introductory book for beginners of Confucian moral thought.

The Analects of Confucius is one of the important classics of Confucianism. It was compiled by Confucius' disciples and re-transmitted disciples. With quotations and dialogues as the carrier, it recorded the words and deeds of Confucius and his disciples and reflected moral concepts and ethical thoughts.

Mencius is a book compiled by Mencius himself and his disciples to record Mencius' words and deeds. This book mainly embodies Mencius' political ideas and thoughts. According to legend, The Doctrine of the Mean was written by Confucius' grandson Zisi, and it is also one of the most important classics in Taoism.