17. Aptitude is not a decisive factor in study; poor family status does not affect personal establishment.

讀書無論資性①高低，但能勤學好問，凡事思一個所以然，自有義理貫通之日。立身②不嫌家世貧賤，但能忠厚老成，所行無一毫苟且處，便為鄉黨仰望之人。

【中文注釋】

① 資性：天資，天分，悟性。

② 立身：為人處事。

【今文解譯】

讀書不論天資高低，隻要勤學好問，凡事都探個究竟，自會有明白其中含義和道理的那一天。

立身無關家世貧賤，隻要忠厚老實，從來不做有失體統的事情，就一定會成為眾所敬仰的人。

【English Translation】

Human intelligence is not a factor so decisive in study. As long as you can learn and consult unceasingly, and probe into the whys and wherefores of difficult points, there must be a day when you penetrate the meaning and reasons in the books.

Poor family status is not a thing so important for gaining a place in society. As long as you can behave yourself in a way of honesty and kindheartedness, and do nothing against public ethics, you will surely be a person respected by all the surrounding people.

惡鄉願 棄鄙夫