Analects of Confucious

902 Words4 Pages
The Analects of Confucius “The Analects of Confucius” is a collection of sayings and teachings that has had a profound influence on Chinese cultural and political traditions. Collected by generations of Confucius’ disciples, the Analects took 75 years after his death to complete. One could liken the Analects to the Gospels found in the Bible, where there are various messages or purposes hidden within the teachings and sayings – with the interpretations being left up to the reader. For example, several times throughout the Analects, Confucius makes references to the role of the gentlemen. Confucius believed that men were not simply born gentlemen because of their family’s position within society or money, but instead men have to earn the status though morality. “[A gentleman] is an ethical quality, achieved by the practice of virtue, and secured through education”. Of gentlemen, Confucius has said: “a gentleman puts loyalty and faithfulness foremost; he does not befriend his moral inferiors”. A gentleman will only “preach what he practices” and he will consider the whole person, not just the parts of a man. Above all else, a gentleman will look to help his fellow man, will do the right thing, and will be gracious to not only his friends but his enemies as well. To Confucius, and his disciples, the title of gentleman is the highest of honors and is not earned easily. Another message that can be found within the Analects is the value of family relationships. One quality that was important to Confucius is filial piety, or xiao. Filial piety can be best explained as the obligation of children to care for and respect their parents and other family member in life and after death. Of the family Confucius has said: “at home, a young man must respect his parents; abroad he must respect his elders”. “It is the attitude that matters, “when your parents are alive, serve

More about Analects of Confucious

Open Document