Tian Xingjian, a gentleman strives for self-improvement: this sentence comes from dry hanging. "Tian Xingjian" refers to the smooth, powerful and continuous operation of the sky (dry symbolizes the sky). Here, the author exhorts the gentleman to take self-improvement as the principle based on the nature of heaven, that is, the gentleman should constantly strive to improve himself, pursue progress unremittingly, and constantly improve his ability and quality.
The terrain is Kun, and a gentleman carries things with virtue: this sentence comes from Kun Gua. "Dikun" means that the land (symbolized by Kun) is tolerant, steady and inclusive of everything. Here, the author warns the gentleman with the characteristics of the earth, to put morality first and carry things with morality. That is, a gentleman should have noble moral qualities such as benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, wisdom and trust, and use these virtues to care, tolerate and assume social responsibilities.
In a word, these two sentences emphasize that a gentleman should learn the characteristics of heaven and earth in morality and behavior: on the one hand, he should strive for self-improvement, on the other hand, he should have noble moral character to bear. This is a code of conduct for gentlemen advocated by ancient Confucianism, which has important educational significance.
Tsinghua University's school motto "strive for self-improvement, be virtuous and carry things" comes from the scriptures of Gangua and Kungua in the Book of Changes. This motto provides Tsinghua students with a code of conduct and life goals.
Self-improvement: This part encourages Tsinghua students to keep a positive spirit, constantly pursue Excellence, and improve their abilities and self-cultivation. In academic, scientific research, innovation and social practice, we should show the spirit of self-improvement and bravely climb the peak. This spirit is an important reason why Tsinghua University has forged the quality of first-class universities in the course of more than one hundred years' development.
Morality: This part emphasizes that Tsinghua students should cultivate noble moral quality, care about society and others, and have a broad mind and sense of responsibility while pursuing knowledge and ability improvement. "Paying attention to morality" requires Tsinghua students to shoulder the heavy responsibility of making contributions to the country and society on the basis of their achievements and become talents with both ability and political integrity.
In a word, Tsinghua University's school motto "strive for self-improvement, cherish virtue and carry things" applies the wisdom in the Book of Changes to modern education, providing students with clear behavior guidance and life pursuit. This motto not only embodies Tsinghua University's pursuit of academic excellence, but also emphasizes the cultivation of perfect personality and noble morality. By adhering to this motto, Tsinghua students can make outstanding achievements in their respective fields and make important contributions to society.