Confucius on Virtue Over Wealth: Understanding His Views on Destiny and Benevolence

9.1 Zi Han (1) rarely spoke of profit and (2) fate and benevolence.

[Annotation]

(1) Han: rare, seldom.

(2) Yu: to agree with, to affirm.

[Translation]

Confucius rarely spoke of profit, but he agreed with fate and benevolence.

[Analysis]

“Zi Han Yan Li” shows that Confucius despised “li.” In the Analects, we also see him talking about “li” many times, but basically he advocated “first righteousness, then profit” and “value righteousness, not profit.

It can be said that Confucius rarely talked about ‘li.’ In addition, this chapter says that Confucius agreed with ‘ming’ and ‘ren,’ which shows that Confucius attached great importance to this. Confucius often associated “fate” with “heaven

,” that is, “heavenly fate,” which is an integral part of Confucius’ thinking. Confucius also talked about “benevolence,” which is the core of his thinking. We have already commented on this in previous chapters, so please refer to them.

Confucius, one of China’s most revered philosophers, is known for his emphasis on moral integrity and ethical conduct. In his teachings, he often placed virtue above material gain, highlighting his views on destiny and benevolence. This article explores Confucius’ perspective on these concepts, revealing his profound beliefs and their relevance today.

The Value of Virtue Over Wealth

In the Analects, Confucius is noted for rarely discussing wealth. This deliberate omission underscores his belief that moral virtues surpass material benefits. Confucius held the view that pursuing righteousness (义, yì) should take precedence over seeking profit (利, lì). His teachings consistently suggest that one’s actions should be guided by ethical considerations rather than personal gain. By prioritizing virtue, Confucius advocated for a life where moral principles guide decisions, creating a more just and honorable society.

Embracing Destiny and Benevolence

Confucius also held a deep reverence for the concepts of destiny (命, mìng) and benevolence (仁, rén). His view of destiny was closely linked to the divine will or “Heaven’s mandate” (天命, tiānmìng). He believed that understanding and accepting one’s place in the grand scheme of things was crucial for personal development and harmony with the universe.

Benevolence, or rén, was the core of Confucian thought. It embodies compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others. Confucius emphasized that a benevolent leader should act with integrity and concern for the well-being of the people. This principle was central to his vision of a harmonious society where individuals interact with sincerity and respect.

The Relevance Today

Confucius’ emphasis on virtue over wealth and his reverence for destiny and benevolence offer timeless insights. In our contemporary world, where material success often overshadows moral values, Confucius’ teachings remind us to reflect on what truly matters. By focusing on ethical behavior and compassionate leadership, we can navigate life’s complexities with greater integrity and fulfillment.