📜 Thousand Character Classic — Chapter 15

Cosmos, Time & Conduct

Read Together

Two lines a day. Ask one question. Find one connection to life.

恬笔伦纸,钧巧任钓。
tián bǐ lún zhǐ, jūn qiǎo rèn diào
Good brushes and fine paper; equal skill in crafts and fishing. Tools and talents matter in many walks of life.
Parent note: Ask: what’s your favorite “tool” for learning or play?
释纷利俗,并皆佳妙。
shì fēn lì sú, bìng jiē jiā miào
Resolving disputes and benefiting common folk — all are admirable. Service, not just beauty, makes life good.
Parent note: Talk: what does “helping the community” look like today?
毛施淑姿,工颦妍笑。
máo shī shū zī, gōng pín yán xiào
Mao Qiang and Xi Shi, both famous beauties — whether frowning or smiling. Beauty can be seen in many forms, not just one.
Parent note: Ask kids: what makes a person “beautiful” beyond looks?
年矢每催,曦晖朗曜。
nián shǐ měi cuī, xī huī lǎng yào
Years press like arrows; the sun shines bright. Time moves quickly — each day is precious.
Parent note: Mark a calendar: what’s one thing to enjoy today?
璇玑悬斡,晦魄环照。
xuán jī xuán wò, huì pò huán zhào
The celestial sphere turns above; the moon waxes and wanes in light. Observing the heavens teaches cycles and balance.
Parent note: Stargaze together — notice one star or moon phase.
指薪修祜,永绥吉劭。
zhǐ xīn xiū hù, yǒng suí jí shào
Pointing to firewood, cultivating blessings; may peace and goodness last. Work and care prepare lasting happiness.
Parent note: Ask: what small daily act brings peace to our home?
矩步引领,俯仰廊庙。
jǔ bù yǐn lǐng, fǔ yǎng láng miào
Walking with measured steps, looking up and down in the great halls. Proper conduct shows respect in important places.
Parent note: Practice: how do we walk and behave in a quiet library?
束带矜庄,徘徊瞻眺。
shù dài jīn zhuāng, pái huái zhān tiào
Fastening belts, standing serious; pacing with careful gaze. Dignity is shown through posture and presence.
Parent note: Try “posture practice” — stand tall, calm, respectful.

Parent Prompts