Confucius and the Mesmerizing Power of Ancient Chinese Music

7·14 The Master was in Qi when he heard the music of Shao (1). For three months he could not taste the flavor of meat. He said, “I did not expect music to be so enchanting.”

[Explanation]

(1) Shao: the name of an ancient piece of music from the time of Shun.

[Translation]

Confucius heard the music of Shao in Qi and could not taste the flavor of meat for a long time. He said, “I did not expect the beauty of the music of Shao to be so enchanting.”

[Analysis]

The music of Shao was popular among the nobles at the time. Confucius was very knowledgeable about music and had a strong ability to appreciate music. After listening to the music of Shao, he could not taste the flavor of meat for a long time. This is of course an exaggeration, but it also shows that he was so obsessed with ancient music that he had reached a high level of accomplishment in music.

Ancient Chinese culture is rich with traditions that continue to fascinate people around the world. One such tradition is the profound appreciation for music, as exemplified by Confucius, one of China’s most revered philosophers. An intriguing story from Confucius’s life highlights his deep connection to music and offers a window into the cultural significance of ancient Chinese melodies.

In the Spring and Autumn period, Confucius found himself in the state of Qi, where he had the opportunity to hear a famous ancient musical composition called “Shao.” The Shao music was a cherished piece from the time of Emperor Shun, revered for its sublime beauty and complex arrangements. Upon hearing this music, Confucius was so entranced that he reportedly “forgot the taste of meat for three months.” This metaphorical expression illustrates how deeply the music affected him, immersing him in a state of aesthetic and emotional ecstasy.

The Magic of Shao Music

Shao music was not just an ordinary composition; it was a symbol of cultural and intellectual sophistication among the nobility of ancient China. Its intricate melodies and rhythms represented the pinnacle of musical achievement, embodying the harmony and order that were central to Confucian thought. For Confucius, who had a profound understanding of music and its moral and philosophical implications, the experience of Shao was nothing short of transformative.

The Cultural Context

Understanding why Confucius was so moved by Shao music requires a grasp of the cultural and philosophical landscape of the time. Music in ancient China was more than entertainment; it was a vital part of education, governance, and ritual. Confucius believed that music had the power to cultivate virtue and bring about social harmony. In his teachings, he emphasized that a well-ordered society was one where music and rites played a central role.

The Philosophical Implications

The story of Confucius and Shao music also reveals the philosopher’s deep engagement with the arts as a means of self-cultivation. For Confucius, listening to music was an act of refining one’s character and emotions. The overwhelming beauty of Shao music offered him a glimpse of ideal beauty and order, aligning perfectly with his vision of a harmonious society.

The Lasting Legacy

Confucius’s reaction to Shao music underscores the timeless appeal of ancient Chinese music and its enduring impact on Chinese culture. Today, Confucius is not only remembered as a great thinker and educator but also as a passionate advocate of the arts. His profound appreciation for music continues to inspire those who seek to understand the cultural heritage of China.