Understanding Confucian Wisdom: From Qi to Lu and the Path to Dao

6-24 The Son said, “When Qi changes, it comes to Lu; when Lu changes, it comes to the Way.”

[Translation

Confucius said, “Once Qi changes, it can reach Lu as it is; once Lu changes, it can reach the Way of the late King.”

[Commentary

In this chapter, Confucius put forward the category of “Dao”. The “Way” mentioned here is the highest principle of ruling a country. During the Spring and Autumn Period, the state of Qi developed its feudal economy earlier and implemented some reforms, becoming the richest and strongest vassal state at that time. Compared with Qi, Lu’s feudal economy developed more slowly, but its ideology and superstructure were better preserved. Therefore, Confucius said that by changing, Qi reached the state of Lu, and by changing again, Lu reached the way of the late king. This reflects Confucius’ infinite affection for the Zhou rites.

Confucian Wisdom: How Qi and Lu Reflect the Path to Dao

Confucianism, a cornerstone of Chinese philosophy, often delves into the intricacies of governance and societal ideals. One notable excerpt from Confucius’s teachings offers insight into his views on political and moral transformation. This passage reads:

“Confucius said: ‘If the State of Qi changes, it can become like the State of Lu; if the State of Lu changes, it can achieve the Way of the Ancestors.'”

To fully grasp the depth of this statement, we need to understand the historical and philosophical context.

During the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history, the State of Qi was known for its economic prosperity and early reforms. Qi was a leading power, boasting advanced economic development and progressive policies compared to its contemporaries. The State of Lu, on the other hand, lagged behind in economic terms but preserved the traditional values and institutional frameworks of the Zhou dynasty more faithfully.

Confucius’s statement reflects a hierarchical view of political and moral development. By saying that Qi could become like Lu with change, he suggests that even a prosperous state needs to embrace certain traditional values to achieve a higher standard. Conversely, Lu, despite its slower economic progress, held the potential to reach the ideal state of governance by adopting the virtues and principles of the Zhou dynasty, often referred to as the Way of the Ancestors.

Confucius’s reverence for Zhou rituals and governance is evident here. He saw the Zhou dynasty’s practices as the pinnacle of moral and political order, the “Way” that provided a model for an ideal state. For Confucius, the goal of any state’s reform was not just to improve economically but to align with these ancient values and principles.

This teaching underscores Confucius’s belief in the importance of traditional values and moral governance. The comparison between Qi and Lu illustrates his view that true progress involves not only material advancement but also a commitment to the ethical and philosophical foundations of good governance.

For modern readers, especially those unfamiliar with Chinese culture, this passage highlights how ancient wisdom can provide insights into the balance between economic development and the preservation of traditional values. It serves as a reminder that progress and tradition are not mutually exclusive but can complement each other in creating a just and prosperous society.

Understanding Confucian teachings like this helps us appreciate the depth of Chinese philosophical thought and its relevance to both historical and contemporary issues in governance and personal conduct.