Ancient Chinese Rituals: Understanding Confucius’ Dietary Practices and Their Cultural Significance

10·9 Do not keep meat overnight for the sacrifice to the public (1), and do not keep meat for sacrifice (2) for more than three days. After three days, do not eat it.

[Annotation]

(1) Do not keep meat overnight: Do not keep meat overnight. In ancient times, after attending the sacrifice to the public, a doctor could receive meat from the public. However, the sacrifice usually lasted for two or three days, so the meat was no longer fresh and could not be kept overnight. After three days, it could not be kept overnight.

(2) Sacrificial meat: This is meat used in sacrificial ceremonies.

Translation:

The meat that Confucius received when he attended the sacrificial ceremonies of the ruler could not be kept for the next day. The meat used in sacrificial ceremonies could not be kept for more than three days. If it was kept for more than three days, it would not be eaten.

Commentary:

In the above four chapters, Confucius’ clothing and eating habits are described. Confucius’ adherence to “ritual” is not only reflected in his speech and behavior and ceremonies when meeting with the ruler and the nobles, but also in his clothing. He had different requirements for the clothes he wore during sacrificial ceremonies, mourning, and ordinary times. For example, there were different rules for single-layered clothes, overcoats, hemp clothes, leather robes, pajamas, bathrobes, formal clothes, and casual clothes. In terms of food, “one should not be picky about the quality of food, and one should not be picky about the size of the pieces of food.” Moreover, there were eight kinds of food that he would not eat. If he ate them, it would be harmful to his health.

In ancient China, rituals and customs held significant cultural and social importance, and none more so than those observed by Confucius, the renowned philosopher and teacher. One of the key aspects of Confucian rituals involved specific dietary practices that were closely tied to the concept of “礼” (li), or ritual propriety. This article delves into the significance of these practices and what they reveal about Confucian values.

The Importance of Ritual Propriety in Confucianism

Confucius, a pivotal figure in Chinese history, emphasized the importance of “礼” in all aspects of life. “礼” encompasses a range of behaviors and practices, from how one interacts with others to how one dresses and eats. For Confucius, adhering to these rituals was not merely about maintaining social order but also about cultivating moral character and respect for tradition.

Dietary Practices and Ritual Purity

One fascinating aspect of Confucian ritual propriety is seen in his dietary practices, especially those related to sacrificial meat. According to the Analects, Confucius followed strict rules regarding the consumption of meat offered during sacrifices:

No Overnight Meat: Confucius believed that meat obtained from sacrifices should not be kept overnight. This practice ensured that the meat was consumed while still fresh, adhering to the standards of ritual purity and respect for the sacrificial offering.

Three-Day Rule: Sacrificial meat was not to be eaten after three days. If the meat was not consumed within this period, it was discarded. This rule underscored the importance of freshness and the avoidance of spoilage, reflecting a deep respect for the offerings made during rituals.

Clothing and Rituals

Confucius’ adherence to ritual propriety extended beyond dietary habits to his clothing choices. He had distinct requirements for different occasions, including:

Sacrificial Attire: Special garments worn during sacrificial ceremonies.

Mourning Clothes: Specific attire for periods of mourning, such as hemp clothing, which symbolized grief and respect for the deceased.

Everyday Wear: Various types of clothing for daily life, each selected according to the appropriate context and season.

The Broader Significance

Confucius’ meticulous attention to rituals and dietary practices highlights a broader cultural ethos in ancient China, where the harmony between daily life and ritual was paramount. These practices were not mere formalities but were deeply intertwined with moral and ethical principles. By observing these rituals, individuals demonstrated their commitment to societal values and respect for their heritage.

Relevance Today

Understanding Confucius’ practices offers valuable insights into Chinese culture and history. It also underscores the universal human concern with maintaining traditions and respecting the sanctity of certain practices. In today’s globalized world, where cultures continuously interact and influence one another, revisiting these ancient customs can foster a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and historical continuity.