Confucius: Embracing Tradition with ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ – Insights into Classical Learning

7-1 The Tzu said, “Narrating without making (1), believing in the past, stealing (2) compared to my old Peng (3).”

[Comment

(1)述而不作：述，传述。 Make, create.

(2) steal: private, private, private.

(3) Lao Peng: the name of a person, but who exactly refers to, academics say differently. Some say it is the Yin Shang era, a “good account of ancient things” of the “wise doctor”; some say it is Lao Zi and Peng Zu two people, some say it is the Yin Shang era of Peng Zu.

Some say it was Laozi and Pengzu.

Confucius said, “Only expounding but not creating, believing and preferring ancient things, I privately compare myself to Old Peng.”

[Commentary

In this chapter, Confucius put forward the principle of “expounding but not creating”, which reflected the conservative side of Confucius’ thinking. Completely comply with the principle of “narration without composition”, then the ancient things can only be stereotyped, there will no longer be innovation and development of ideas. This kind of thinking began to form after the Han Dynasty, the ancient school of Confucianism, the “narrative, not writing” way of learning, for the Chinese people’s thinking has a certain degree of limitation.

In his teachings, Confucius stated: “I only pass on and do not create, I trust and admire the ancient ways, and privately, I compare myself to Lao Peng.” This phrase encapsulates a significant aspect of Confucian thought, reflecting a deep reverence for tradition and a reluctance to innovate beyond the classical norms.

Understanding ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’

The term ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ can be translated as “to convey but not to create.” Here, ‘Shu’ means to pass on or convey, while ‘Zu’ implies creation or innovation. Confucius articulated this principle to highlight his role as a transmitter of ancient wisdom rather than a creator of new ideas. His approach was to uphold and share the values and knowledge from the past rather than introducing new concepts or philosophies.

The Legacy of Lao Peng

Confucius refers to himself as akin to Lao Peng, a figure whose identity remains debated among scholars. Some suggest that Lao Peng was a virtuous scholar from the Shang dynasty known for his dedication to preserving ancient knowledge. Others believe Lao Peng could be a composite of Laozi and Pengzu, or simply Pengzu, another historical figure celebrated for his wisdom and longevity.

The Role of ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ in Chinese Scholarship

Confucius’s adherence to ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ underscores a conservative approach to scholarship. By focusing solely on transmitting existing knowledge rather than innovating, Confucius established a model that influenced subsequent intellectual traditions in China. This approach contributed to the formation of the classical learning schools during the Han Dynasty, which prioritized the preservation of ancient texts and interpretations over creative thought.

While this method ensured the continuity and integrity of ancient wisdom, it also imposed certain limitations on intellectual development. By adhering strictly to traditional doctrines, scholars might have restricted their capacity for critical analysis and innovation. This cautious approach preserved the classical heritage but occasionally hindered the advancement of new ideas and interpretations.

Implications for Chinese Thought

Confucius’s principle of ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ has had a lasting impact on Chinese intellectual history. It has shaped the way Chinese scholars approach classical texts, often emphasizing the transmission of established knowledge rather than the exploration of new perspectives. This method has played a significant role in maintaining the continuity of Confucian thought and other classical traditions throughout Chinese history.

However, as Chinese society evolved, the limitations of ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ became more apparent. The rigid adherence to traditional interpretations sometimes stifled creativity and adaptation to new circumstances. As a result, later thinkers and scholars had to navigate the balance between respecting historical wisdom and embracing innovative ideas.

Confucius’s philosophy of ‘Shu Er Bu Zu’ reveals his deep respect for the past and his role as a custodian of ancient knowledge. While this approach has helped preserve valuable traditions and teachings, it also highlights the challenges of maintaining intellectual growth within a framework of strict adherence to tradition. Understanding this principle provides valuable insights into the nature of classical Chinese scholarship and its enduring influence on Chinese culture and thought.

By examining Confucius’s perspective on tradition and innovation, we gain a richer understanding of how historical values continue to shape contemporary thought and scholarly practices in China.