Confucius on Ambition vs. Respect: Key Lessons from Ancient China
A boy from Quedang (1) came to deliver a message (2). Someone asked, “Is he a seeker of profit?” Confucius said, “I saw him sitting with the teacher (3). He is not seeking to improve himself, but is eager to succeed.”
[Notes] (1) Que Dang: the village where Confucius lived. (2) Willing to convey orders: to pass on messages between the host and the guest. (3) Sitting in the seat of honor: the boy was sitting with the elders.
[Translation] A boy from the village came to pass on a message to Confucius. Someone asked Confucius, ”Is this a child who seeks to improve himself?” Confucius said, “I saw him sitting in an adult’s seat and walking side by side with an elder. He is not someone who seeks to improve himself, but someone who is eager to achieve success.”
[Commentary] Confucius paid special attention to the order of seniority. This is a consistent proposition of Confucianism. In addition to the family’s emphasis on filial piety and fraternal duty, the young must also respect the elderly outside the family. This has developed into the traditional Chinese virtue of respecting the elderly, which is still necessary to promote today, but should be stripped of its feudal elements and given a democratic content.
In a thought-provoking exchange from ancient China, Confucius sheds light on the nature of ambition and respect. The story takes place in the vicinity of Confucius’ residence, known as the “Queli” (阙里). A young boy was sent to Confucius to deliver a message, prompting a question from an observer about the boy’s character.
“Is this boy one who seeks to advance himself?” they asked Confucius. His response was both insightful and revealing: “I see him sitting in the place of adults and walking alongside his elders. He is not someone who seeks personal advancement; rather, he is someone who is eager for immediate results.”
This simple yet profound observation from Confucius highlights a fundamental principle in Confucian philosophy: the importance of respect and proper conduct over mere ambition.
The Essence of Confucian Respect
Confucius placed great emphasis on the hierarchical nature of relationships, which is central to Confucian thought. Respect for elders and adherence to social roles are seen as crucial elements of a well-ordered society. In the case of the young boy, Confucius noted that his eagerness to advance quickly overshadowed his respect for the established social order. The boy’s position among adults and his actions suggested a desire for rapid success rather than a genuine pursuit of self-improvement.
Implications for Modern Times
The lesson from Confucius is not just historical but remains relevant today. In contemporary society, where fast-paced success and instant gratification are often prioritized, Confucius’ wisdom offers a counterbalance. It reminds us that true progress is achieved through respect for others and patience, rather than through a rush to achieve results.
This perspective encourages individuals to value the process of growth and the importance of respecting established structures, whether in personal development or professional settings. The Confucian emphasis on respect for hierarchy and proper conduct serves as a timeless reminder of the virtues that support a harmonious and well-functioning society.
Confucius’ reflections on the young boy’s ambition and respect provide a valuable lesson that transcends time and culture. By emphasizing respect over mere ambition, Confucius offers a guide for achieving meaningful and lasting progress. As we navigate our own paths in life, the principles of respect and patience highlighted by Confucius can help us build a more balanced and respectful approach to success.