Choose one piece from The Analects of Confucius (under "China" section) to read.
Write a post to 1) summarize the main points; and 2) make your own comments (analyses, questions, thoughts or anything that may invite further discussions). More than 200 words.
Write about this quote and what it means:
Xian asked what was shameful. The Master said, "When good government prevails in a state, to be thinking only of salary; and, when bad government prevails, to be thinking, in the same way, only of salary - this is shameful." "When the love of superiority, boasting, resentments, and covetousness are repressed, this may be deemed perfect virtue." The Master said, "This may be regarded as the achievement of what is difficult. But I do not know that it is to be deemed perfect virtue."
The quote from The Analects of Confucius that I have selected is:
"Xian asked what was shameful. The Master said, 'When good government prevails in a state, to be thinking only of salary; and, when bad government prevails, to be thinking, in the same way, only of salary - this is shameful.' 'When the love of superiority, boasting, resentments, and covetousness are repressed, this may be deemed perfect virtue.' The Master said, 'This may be regarded as the achievement of what is difficult. But I do not know that it is to be deemed perfect virtue.'"
In this passage, Confucius discusses what he considers to be shameful and what constitutes perfect virtue. He states that it is shameful when individuals are solely concerned with their own salary, regardless of whether the government is good or bad. This suggests that a person should not prioritize their own financial gain over the well-being of the state.
Confucius then goes on to describe perfect virtue, which he believes is the repression of the love of superiority, boasting, resentments, and covetousness. By overcoming these negative traits, one is able to achieve perfect virtue. However, Confucius admits that he is unsure whether this is truly perfect virtue, indicating the complexity and difficulty of attaining such a state.
In my interpretation, this quote emphasizes the importance of selflessness and putting the needs of the community above personal gain. Confucius believes that a person should not be motivated solely by financial incentives, but rather by the desire to contribute to the betterment of society.
This quote also raises questions about the definition of perfect virtue. Confucius acknowledges that it is challenging to attain and suggests that there may be more to it than simply repressing negative traits. This leaves room for further exploration and discussion on what truly constitutes perfect virtue and how it can be achieved.
Overall, Confucius presents a moral guideline that encourages individuals to prioritize the greater good and strive for a virtuous life that goes beyond personal interests and financial gains. His teachings remain relevant today, reminding us of the importance of selflessness and ethical conduct in both personal and collective contexts.