Unyielding Spirit: The Power of Personal Resolve

[Original text]

9·26 The Master said, “The commander of an army can be replaced, but a man’s will cannot be taken away.”

[Notes]

(1) Three armies: 12,500 men make up an army, and three armies include all the armies of a large country. Here, it refers to the large number of armies.

(2) Pifu: common people, mainly men.

[Translation]

Confucius said, “The army of a country can be taken away from its commander-in-chief, but a man’s ambition cannot be forced to change.”

[Analysis]

The word “ideal” in Confucius’ time was called “zhi,” which refers to a person’s ambition and aspirations. The saying “a man of integrity cannot be forced to change his mind” reflects the great importance Confucius attached to “integrity,” even comparing it to the

commanders of the three armies. For an individual, he has his own independent personality, and no one has the right to infringe upon it. As an individual, he should maintain his dignity, not be threatened or enticed, and always maintain his “integrity

.” This is how the Chinese concept of “integrity” was formed and established.

In ancient China, Confucius, the renowned philosopher, imparted wisdom that has resonated through centuries. One of his teachings encapsulates the essence of personal integrity and unwavering determination. He said, “A nation’s army can have its general taken away, but a common man’s will cannot be coerced.”

This profound statement highlights a core value deeply embedded in Chinese culture: the importance of individual resolve and personal dignity. To understand this fully, let’s explore the historical and cultural context of Confucius’s words.

In Confucius’s time, the concept of “志” (zhì), or “aspiration,” was highly regarded. It represented a person’s ideals and ambitions. Confucius emphasized that while an army, despite its strength and numbers, could lose its leader, the spirit of a determined individual was invincible. This comparison underscores the critical importance of personal resolve in shaping one’s destiny.

In contemporary terms, think of it as the unyielding spirit of a determined entrepreneur facing numerous setbacks but never giving up on their vision. Or consider the resilience of a community activist who, despite facing significant opposition, continues to fight for justice and equality. These modern parallels illustrate the timeless relevance of Confucius’s teachings.

The notion that no external force can strip away a person’s will is a powerful message of empowerment. It suggests that true strength lies within, and maintaining one’s integrity and aspirations is crucial, regardless of external circumstances. This principle is not just a philosophical idea but a guiding star for personal conduct and societal norms in Chinese culture.

Confucius’s teaching also lays the groundwork for understanding the Chinese concept of “人格” (réngé), or “personal character.” This concept signifies the inviolable dignity and moral fiber of an individual. According to Confucius, maintaining one’s personal character means not succumbing to threats or temptations, thus preserving one’s aspirations and integrity.

In today’s fast-paced world, where external pressures and societal expectations can be overwhelming, Confucius’s wisdom offers a beacon of hope. It reminds us that our true power lies in our ability to remain steadfast in our convictions. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges or professional hurdles, the key is to hold on to your aspirations and never compromise on your principles.

For American readers, this concept might resonate with the idea of the “American Dream,” where determination and hard work are seen as the paths to achieving one’s goals. The parallels between these cultural ideals highlight a shared human experience: the quest for personal fulfillment and the courage to pursue one’s dreams despite adversity.