The Wisdom of Confucius: Understanding Love and Hate Through Benevolence

4·3 The Master said, “Only those with benevolence can love (1) people and hate (2) people.”

[Explanation]

(1) Hao: to love. Used as a verb.

(2) Wu: to hate. Used as a verb. as a verb.

Translation

Confucius said, “Only those with benevolence can love and hate.”

Commentary

When Confucius talks about “benevolence,” he is not only talking about “loving people,” but also “hating people.” Of course, Confucius does not say here who to love and who to hate, but there must be love and hate, and the two exist in opposition. As long as one has “benevolence,” there will be correct love and hate.

Understanding Benevolence

In Confucian thought, “benevolence” (仁, rén) is more than just a moral quality; it represents the core of ethical behavior. Benevolence encompasses a deep sense of empathy and compassion, which guides how one interacts with others. It is often translated as “kindness” or “humaneness,” but it fundamentally means an innate understanding and respect for others’ feelings and needs.

The Dual Nature of Emotions

Confucius’ statement, “Only those with benevolence can love and hate,” might seem puzzling at first. How can love and hate, typically viewed as opposing emotions, be connected through benevolence? To unpack this, it’s important to recognize that Confucius is emphasizing the idea that genuine benevolence involves a balanced and thoughtful approach to these powerful emotions.

Love (Hào, 爱): Confucius believed that true love is not just a passive feeling but an active force that drives individuals to care for others selflessly. This love is rooted in understanding and respect, and it manifests in actions that promote the well-being of others.

Hate (Wù, 恨): On the flip side, hate is not inherently negative in Confucian thought. It is a response to injustice or wrongdoing. However, this form of hate is not about personal animosity but rather about a strong stance against harmful behaviors. It reflects a commitment to upholding moral principles and ensuring fairness.

The Role of Benevolence in Love and Hate

According to Confucius, benevolence provides the framework for appropriate expressions of both love and hate. When someone is benevolent, their love is guided by a genuine concern for others’ welfare, and their hate is directed against harmful actions rather than individuals. This ensures that their emotions are not just reactions but are aligned with moral values and contribute to the greater good.

Practical Implications

Understanding this aspect of Confucian philosophy can offer valuable lessons for contemporary life. In personal relationships, being benevolent means showing compassion and understanding while also standing firm against behaviors that contradict one’s values. In broader societal contexts, it suggests a balanced approach to addressing issues of injustice, where one’s actions are driven by ethical principles rather than personal vendettas.

In essence, Confucius teaches that true emotional depth is achieved through benevolence. It is not merely about experiencing emotions but about channeling them in a way that reflects deep moral understanding. This wisdom encourages us to cultivate empathy and maintain a balanced perspective in our interactions with others, promoting a more harmonious and just world.