jū居wú无qiú求ān安
To not seek comfort or luxury in one's dwelling; to be content with simple living conditions, often implying a focus on higher pursuits or principles over material ease.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, after Confucius was ostracized from the political arena of the State of Lu, he led his disciples on a journey through various states. After facing setbacks in Wei, Zheng, Chen, and Jin, they settled in Cai where their lives were extremely difficult.
They often went three months without tasting meat. To teach his disciples, Confucius had to use the saying, 'A gentleman does not seek to eat his fill, nor does he seek comfort in his dwelling,' encouraging them to lead an ascetic life.