三字经英汉对照之四
we speak of spring and summer,
we speak of autumn and winter,
these four seasons,
revolve without ceasing.
曰春夏 曰秋冬 此四时 运不穷
we speak of north and south,
we speak of east and west,
these four points,
respond to the requirements of the centre.
曰南北 曰西东 此四方 应乎中
we speak of water, fire,
wood, metal and earth.
these five elements,
have their origin in number.
曰火水 木金土 此五行 本乎数
we speak of charity, of duty towards one neighbor,
of propriety, of wisdom, and of truth.
these five virtues,
admit of no compromise.
曰仁义 礼智信 此五常 不容紊