In Confucius’ The Essential Analects, the concept of respect is heavily preached toward the disciples and corrected or commented on by a Master of Confucianism. Confucius’ thought emphasizes the importance of ritual practice – along with the nourishment and comfort of our elders – even at the cost of one’s own expense. Confucianism is expressed as a way of life that embodies the respect for elders, also known as filial piety. Through filial piety, one develops an appreciation for those who have gone before them, and cultivates a self-admiration for the achievements and advancements elders have made. Respect is something that cannot be fickle; either you typify respect completely, or not respect someone at all. Learning to respect another –
…show more content…
It its most primitive form, filial piety and respect for elders constitutes the root of Goodness, a term that is constantly used in Confucius’ writings. When preaching to his disciples, the Master declares, “Without Goodness, one cannot remain constant in adversity and cannot enjoy enduring happiness” (Confucius 4.2). This version of sustained adversity is so enduring that without Goodness, one will fall into a constant state of arrogance that inevitably leads them to do wrong. With filial piety, one learns to respect elders, which advances their own personal virtue of Goodness. Those who are truly Good experience an unconscious effort to be Good – they are not exposed to the outside externalities of life. In this instance, filial piety is bounded by the idea of recognizing one’s contributions to society. The pursuit of Goodness that was accomplished by those who are older projects admirable actions that are desired by many. Furthermore, it creates a standard that is worth reaching for. By striving to not only declare respect, but express respect, one learns the value of self-improvement. When asked about filial piety, The Master reputes, “Nowadays, ‘filial’ means simply being able to provide one’s parents with nourishment. But even dogs and horses are provided with nourishment. If you are not respectful, wherein lies the difference?” (Confucius 2.7). This question stumps Zigong, who is unaware of what constitutes a promise to serve his elders. The answer lies within the idea of execution, where one learns the value of virtuous behavior. Without encompassing proper behavior and emotional attitude, there is no distinction between respecting one’s elders and one’s animals. Confucius acknowledges the idea of service and stewardship, but elevates the concept by providing emotional understanding. In order to express
It its most primitive form, filial piety and respect for elders constitutes the root of Goodness, a term that is constantly used in Confucius’ writings. When preaching to his disciples, the Master declares, “Without Goodness, one cannot remain constant in adversity and cannot enjoy enduring happiness” (Confucius 4.2). This version of sustained adversity is so enduring that without Goodness, one will fall into a constant state of arrogance that inevitably leads them to do wrong. With filial piety, one learns to respect elders, which advances their own personal virtue of Goodness. Those who are truly Good experience an unconscious effort to be Good – they are not exposed to the outside externalities of life. In this instance, filial piety is bounded by the idea of recognizing one’s contributions to society. The pursuit of Goodness that was accomplished by those who are older projects admirable actions that are desired by many. Furthermore, it creates a standard that is worth reaching for. By striving to not only declare respect, but express respect, one learns the value of self-improvement. When asked about filial piety, The Master reputes, “Nowadays, ‘filial’ means simply being able to provide one’s parents with nourishment. But even dogs and horses are provided with nourishment. If you are not respectful, wherein lies the difference?” (Confucius 2.7). This question stumps Zigong, who is unaware of what constitutes a promise to serve his elders. The answer lies within the idea of execution, where one learns the value of virtuous behavior. Without encompassing proper behavior and emotional attitude, there is no distinction between respecting one’s elders and one’s animals. Confucius acknowledges the idea of service and stewardship, but elevates the concept by providing emotional understanding. In order to express