Who is Tzu-lu from The Analects and what is their importance?

Tzu-lu is a disciple of Confucius who is a steward to the Chi family and who dies in Wei fighting for his lord. Tzu-lu is the oldest in the group of Confucius' best known early disciples. He is a resolute, courageous man of action who is impetuous and not fond of learning. He is criticized by Confucius for his love of courage that lacks judgment. When he asks if courage is a supreme quality Confucius claims morality is supreme. The Master prophecies his unnatural death and dying while fighting for his lord makes it true. Confucius often warns him against acting rashly. Tzu-lu's major shortcoming is a lack of desire to learn. Confucius does compliment Tzu-lu on his ability to determine truth from little evidence and on keeping his promises. He is closest in age to Confucius.