Confucian Wisdom: The Importance of Staying Close to Home

4·19 The Master said, “While parents are living, one should not travel far away (1), and if one does travel, one should have a fixed destination (2).”

[Explanation]

(1) Travel: refers to traveling for study, official business, or business.

(2) Destination: a fixed place.

[Translation]

Confucius said, “While parents are living, one should not travel far away. If one has to travel far away, one should have a fixed destination.”

[Commentary]

“Do not travel far from home while your parents are still alive” is one of the specific contents of the Confucian moral principle of “filial piety” in the pre-Qin period. This principle of filial piety has been used throughout the ages to restrain and require children to be filial to their parents. This principle of filial piety has lost its significance today.

Confucius once said, “While parents are living, one should not travel far away. If one has to travel far away, one should have a fixed destination.” This simple yet profound advice underscores the Confucian value of filial piety—a principle that emphasizes respect, loyalty, and care for one’s parents.

Understanding the Principle

In Confucian thought, filial piety is more than just a cultural norm; it’s a fundamental virtue. The idea of not traveling far from home while one’s parents are alive reflects a deep-seated respect and responsibility towards one’s family. This concept is especially important in the context of Confucian values, where family harmony and respect for elders are paramount.

The advice to “have a fixed destination” if one must travel far signifies that even when duties or responsibilities call for long journeys, one should be mindful of their family’s needs. It suggests that while exploring or pursuing personal goals, one should remain grounded in the importance of family ties.

Historical Context and Modern Relevance

Historically, the Confucian principle of filial piety served as a guide for maintaining family cohesion and respect for parental authority. In ancient China, where family and societal roles were more rigid, this principle helped ensure that children prioritized their parents’ well-being and maintained close family bonds.

Today, the relevance of this principle might seem less apparent in a world where global mobility and career opportunities often take precedence. However, the underlying message remains significant. It encourages us to balance personal ambitions with family responsibilities, ensuring that we do not lose sight of the values that nurture our relationships with loved ones.

Embracing Confucian Values in Modern Times

Applying Confucian wisdom in contemporary life doesn’t mean abandoning personal goals or ambitions. Instead, it suggests integrating respect for family into our decisions and actions. Whether through regular communication, visits, or simply being present, maintaining a connection with family reflects the spirit of filial piety.

In essence, Confucius’ teaching on staying close to home while parents are alive is a call to honor and cherish familial bonds. It invites us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can better balance our pursuits with the values that guide our relationships.

By embracing this wisdom, we can create a harmonious blend of personal growth and family dedication, ensuring that we honor our roots while reaching for our dreams.