Good Government, Filial Piety, and The Superior Man
January 30, 2020Confucius= “Let a ruler base his government upon virtuous principles, and he will be like the pole-star, which remains steadfast in its place, while all the host of stars turn towards it.
The ‘Book of Odes’ has 300 pieces. But one expression in it can cover the purport of all, namely unswerving mindfulness. The people will become evasive and devoid of any sense of shame if they are governed simply by statute, pains and penalties. They will develop a sense of shame and know their errors if they are governed by principles of virtue and the Rules of Propriety. When I reached 15, I became bent on study.
We should always follow the Rules of Propriety with regard to our parents=
Parents should bear only one trouble= their own sickness. The filial piety of the present day simply means the being able to support one’s parents.
This extends even to the case of dogs and horses. All of these can support them.
Be versed in ancient lore, and familiarize yourself with the modern; then may you become teachers. The great man is not a mere receptacle.
+++
+++
+++
+++
He should promote those who have ability and see to the instruction of those who have none. This will make them willing to be led.
