Ancient Chinese Wisdom: The Story of Weisheng Gao and the Art of Indirectness

5-24 The Tzu said, “Who says that the microbe is high(1) and straight? Or begging ayi(2) where, begging their neighbors and with them.”

[Commentary

(1) Weisheng Gao: Surname Weisheng name Gao, a native of Lu. At that time, he was considered to be straightforward.

(2)acyl: pronounced xī, i.e. vinegar.

Translation

Confucius said, “Who said that Wei Sheng Gao was a straightforward person? Someone asked him for some vinegar, and he (did not say outright that he did not have any, but secretly) went to his neighbor’s house and asked for some to give to him.”

[Commentary

Confucius thought that Wei Sheng Gao was not straightforward when he asked for vinegar from his neighbor’s house and gave it to the person who came to ask for vinegar, but he did not say that he did not have it. However, in another chapter, Confucius suggested and advocated that “the father is hidden for the son, and the son is hidden for the father”, which, in his opinion, was not “not straight”. Confucius could only explain this kind of “dishonesty” by saying that the father is kind to the son and the son is filial.

One such story involves Weisheng Gao, a man renowned in ancient China for his supposed directness. However, Confucius uses his story to illustrate a more nuanced perspective on honesty and indirectness. This tale offers a glimpse into the complexities of Chinese cultural values and how they differ from Western ideals.

The Story of Weisheng Gao

Weisheng Gao, a man from the state of Lu, was considered straightforward by his contemporaries. The tale goes that someone once asked him for some vinegar. Instead of admitting that he had none, Weisheng Gao secretly obtained some from his neighbor and gave it to the person. Confucius critiqued this action, questioning the authenticity of Weisheng Gao’s reputed directness.

Confucius’ Perspective

Confucius believed that true honesty does not involve deception, even if the intent seems benign. To him, Weisheng Gao’s action was a form of dishonesty because he did not openly admit his lack of vinegar. This story highlights the Confucian ideal that sincerity and transparency are essential virtues.

Indirectness in Chinese Culture

The concept of indirectness in Chinese culture often contrasts sharply with Western ideals of blunt honesty. In many situations, Chinese communication prioritizes harmony and the preservation of relationships. Indirectness can be a way to avoid causing embarrassment or discomfort. This approach is deeply rooted in Confucian values that emphasize respect, politeness, and social harmony.

The Paradox of Indirectness

Interestingly, Confucius also advocated for a form of indirectness under certain circumstances. In another part of his teachings, he supports the idea that a father should cover for his son, and vice versa. This “protective dishonesty” is seen as an expression of familial loyalty and love. Confucius did not view this as contradictory but as a necessary part of maintaining familial harmony and trust.

Balancing Honesty and Social Harmony

The story of Weisheng Gao and Confucius’ teachings reveal a complex interplay between honesty and social harmony in Chinese culture. While directness is valued, it is often tempered by a consideration for others’ feelings and the broader social context. This balance is something that can be challenging for those from cultures that prioritize blunt honesty to understand.