每日中华文化专词双译|器

器

Qi (Vessel)

图片来源：学习强国

实在的器物或具体的职官、身份等。“器”是有形的或可以具体描述的。每一种“器”都具有特定的形态、功用或能力。因此，“器”与“器”之间有着明确的界限和差别。但不同的“器”之中又包含着相通的“道”。“器”的存在来自于“道”且依赖于“道”。具体就人事而言，个人在自己的职分中担负着特定的责任，但又应超越于具体而有限的器用，致力于对“道”的体认与遵循。

Qi (器) is a real object or a specific official, position, etc. A qi is something visible, or something one may describe in concrete terms. Every kind of qi has a specific form, function, or capability. Therefore there are clear distinctions between one qi and another. However, a common Dao exists in different qis. The existence of a qi is based on Dao. In terms of human affairs, an individual assumes a particular responsibility suited to his position; but he should go beyond his specific capabilities and strive to adhere to and obtain Dao.

引例 Citations：

◎形而上者谓之道，形而下者谓之器。（《周易·系辞上》）

未成形质者称为“道”，已成形质者称为“器”。

What is above form is called Dao, and what is under form is called 'an object.' (The Book of Changes)

◎子曰：“君子不器。”（《论语·为政》）

孔子说：“君子不局限于一才一艺之用。”

Confucius said, 'A virtuous man should not possess one skill only.' (The Analects)

◎朴散则为器，圣人用之则为官长。（《老子·二十八章》）

真朴的道分散则成为各种器物，圣人善于任使不同功用的“器”，就成为百官的首长。

Dao disperses and gives birth to tangible objects, and sages who are good at making use of objects of different functions become natural leaders of all officials. (Laozi)

（推荐：教育部 国家语委 供稿：北京外国语大学 外语教学与研究出版社）