Confucius Praises Yu: Simplicity and Dedication in Leadership
8-21 The Tzu said, “Yu, I have no inter(1) to carry on. I have no time (2) to eat and drink, but I am filial to the gods and spirits; I have no time (4) to dress, but I am beautiful (4); and I have no time (5) to do my best in the ditches and moats (6). Yu, I have no time to carry on.”
[Commentary
(1) Between: the meaning of gap. Here used as a verb.
(2) Fei: Fei thin, not abundant.
(3) To: committed, effort.
(4)黻冕：音 fǔ miǎn, the dress worn during the sacrifice is called 黻; the hat worn during the sacrifice is called 冕.
(5) 卑: low.
(6) ditch: moat, sound xù, ditch.
[Translation
Confucius said, “I have nothing more to say about Yu; his food was simple, but he did his best to honor the gods and spirits; the clothes he wore in ordinary times were simple, but he tried to be as gorgeous as possible when he offered sacrifices, and the palace in which he lived was low, but he devoted himself to the repair of water conservancy matters. For Yu, I really have nothing more to pick on.”
Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, often used historical figures to illustrate his moral teachings. One such figure he praised was Yu the Great, a legendary ruler celebrated for his dedication and simplicity. In a notable passage, Confucius reflects on Yu’s virtues, highlighting qualities that are both timeless and relevant today.
Confucius remarked on Yu’s simplicity and selflessness. Yu’s approach to life and leadership was marked by a striking contrast between his personal lifestyle and his public responsibilities. According to Confucius, Yu’s diet was modest, yet he devoted himself wholeheartedly to honoring the spirits. This devotion extended to his ceremonial attire; while he dressed simply in daily life, he donned elaborate robes and a ceremonial hat during rituals to show respect.
Furthermore, Confucius noted Yu’s humble living conditions. Despite the grandeur of his ceremonial attire, Yu lived in a modest residence, reflecting his dedication to public service over personal luxury. His primary focus was on improving the infrastructure, specifically water management, which was crucial for the well-being of his people.
Confucius’s praise of Yu underscores a key principle: true leadership is characterized by humility and a deep commitment to the greater good. Yu’s life serves as an exemplar of how leaders should balance personal simplicity with dedicated service. This principle is as relevant today as it was in ancient China, reminding us that effective leadership involves putting the needs of others before one’s own comforts.
Through this reflection, Confucius offers a timeless lesson on leadership and personal integrity. Yu’s life is a testament to the impact of selfless service and the importance of maintaining simplicity in the face of power and responsibility.