Yuan Xian

Yuan Xian
Traditional Chinese
Simplified Chinese
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinYuán Xiàn
Wade–GilesYüan Hsien
Zisi
Chinese
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinZǐsī
Wade–GilesTzu-ssu
Yuan Si
Chinese
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinYuán Sī
Wade–GilesYüan Ssu

Yuan Xian (born 515 BC), courtesy name Zisi or Yuan Si, was a Chinese philosopher who was a major disciple of Confucius. Classic Chinese sources stated he was modest and incorruptible, and adhered strictly to the teachings of Confucius despite living in abject poverty.