Confucius on Loyalty and Wisdom: The Story of Guan Zhong

Zilu said, “King Huan killed Gongzi Jiu (1) and Zhaohu (2) died for it, but Guan Zhong did not. Confucius said, ‘Wasn’t that kind? Confucius said, ’King Huan united the vassals nine times (3) without using military force (4). If he is benevolent (5), then he is benevolent.

[Notes] (1) Gongzi Jiu: the older brother of Duke Huan of Qi. Duke Huan of Qi killed him after a dispute over the throne. (2) Zhao Hu: both Guan Zhong and Zhao Hu were retainers of Gongzi Jiu. After Gongzi Jiu was killed, Zhao Hu committed suicide, while Guan Zhong surrendered to Duke Huan of Qi and became the prime minister of Qi. (3) Nine times he united the princes: refers to the many times Duke Huan of Qi called the princes to a meeting. (4) Not by force: i.e. without the use of force. (5) As benevolent as he is: This is his benevolence.

[Translation] Zilu said, “Lord Huan killed Gongzi Jiu, and Zhaohu killed himself to avenge him, but Guan Zhong did not kill himself. Can Guan Zhong be considered a benevolent person?” Confucius said, “Lord Huan repeatedly called the princes to a meeting without the use of force. This is his benevolence. This is his benevolence.”

[Commentary] Confucius advocated “loyalty to the ruler.” When Gongzi Jiao was killed, Zhaohu committed suicide to avenge his lord, but Guan Zhong did not die. Not only that, he also surrendered to his lord’s political enemies and became prime minister. Such behavior should be considered disloyalty to his lord. But Confucius here thought that Guan Zhong helped Qi Huan Gong to convene a meeting of the princes without relying on military force, relying on the power of benevolence and virtue, and was worthy of praise.

In ancient China, the teachings of Confucius have shaped the philosophical and ethical landscape for centuries. One such teaching revolves around the concept of loyalty and wisdom, beautifully illustrated in the story of Guan Zhong.

In the historical record “The Analects,” there’s a poignant conversation between Confucius and his disciple, Zilu. Zilu questions the actions of Guan Zhong, a historical figure who served as the Prime Minister of Qi, a powerful state during the Spring and Autumn period.

Zilu said, “Duke Huan of Qi killed his brother, Prince Jiu. Zhaohu, a loyal retainer, chose to die with Prince Jiu, but Guan Zhong did not. Can Guan Zhong be considered a man of virtue?” Confucius replied, “Duke Huan united the feudal lords nine times without the use of military force. This was due to the efforts of Guan Zhong. Such is his virtue, such is his virtue.”

To understand this conversation, we need to delve into the historical context. Duke Huan of Qi and Prince Jiu were brothers competing for the throne. After Duke Huan killed Prince Jiu, Zhaohu, a loyal follower of Prince Jiu, committed suicide as an act of loyalty. However, Guan Zhong, another follower of Prince Jiu, chose a different path. Instead of following his lord into death, he submitted to Duke Huan and became his prime minister.

Zilu, valuing the traditional concept of loyalty unto death, questioned whether Guan Zhong’s actions were virtuous. In ancient Chinese culture, loyalty to one’s lord was paramount, often extending to following them in death if necessary. Guan Zhong’s decision to live and serve the man who killed his lord seemed to betray this principle.

Confucius, however, offered a broader perspective on virtue. He praised Guan Zhong for his role in helping Duke Huan unite the feudal lords peacefully. By doing so, Guan Zhong brought stability and prosperity to the region, showcasing his wisdom and foresight. Confucius highlighted that Guan Zhong’s actions, though seemingly disloyal in a narrow sense, were ultimately beneficial and virtuous on a larger scale.

This story illustrates a critical aspect of Confucian thought: the balance between loyalty and the greater good. While traditional values emphasized loyalty to one’s lord, Confucius acknowledged that true virtue could sometimes require looking beyond personal loyalty to the broader impact of one’s actions.

Guan Zhong’s wisdom lay in his ability to recognize the potential for greater good through his service to Duke Huan. His decision to live and contribute to the welfare of the state demonstrated a profound understanding of loyalty, not just to an individual but to the broader society.

This nuanced perspective on loyalty and virtue is a cornerstone of Confucian philosophy. It teaches us that true wisdom often involves making difficult choices that prioritize the greater good over rigid adherence to tradition. In modern terms, it reminds us that ethical decisions should consider their broader impact on society, rather than being confined to narrow definitions of loyalty or duty.

Through this story, Confucius challenges us to rethink our understanding of virtue and loyalty. Guan Zhong’s legacy as a wise and virtuous statesman endures, highlighting the timeless relevance of Confucian thought in navigating the complexities of ethical decision-making.

By reflecting on these ancient teachings, we gain insights into how we can apply these principles in our own lives, striving for a balance between personal loyalty and the greater good. Confucius’ wisdom continues to inspire and guide us, demonstrating the enduring power of these timeless ideas.