Why Confucius Believed Even Remote Areas Could Thrive
9·14 The Master wished to live in the land of the Nine Barbarians (1). Someone said, “It’s backward (2), what do you think?” The Master said, “If a gentleman lives there, how can it be backward?”
[Analysis]
In ancient China, people in the Central Plains called the people living in the east barbarians, thinking that the area was backward and ignorant. In response to someone’s question, Confucius said that as long as there were gentlemen
living in these places, spreading cultural knowledge and enlightening the people, then these places would not be backward.
In a fascinating exchange from ancient China, the philosopher Confucius offered some insightful advice on how to handle valuable assets, which also reveals a deeper aspect of his philosophy on leadership and influence.
The Dialogue
The dialogue begins with Zigong, one of Confucius’ disciples, presenting a question to his master. He asks, “Here is a piece of beautiful jade. Should we store it away in a cabinet, or should we find a knowledgeable merchant to sell it?” Confucius’ response is straightforward: “Sell it, sell it! I am waiting for someone who appreciates such things.”
Understanding the Context
To fully appreciate this advice, it’s essential to understand the cultural and philosophical context of Confucius’ time. Confucius, a revered philosopher, was known for his teachings on morality, ethics, and governance. This particular exchange highlights his belief in the importance of practical utility over mere possession.
**1. The Value of Practical Use
In Confucian thought, the value of an item is not just in its inherent quality but in its ability to serve a greater purpose. By suggesting that the jade be sold rather than stored away, Confucius emphasizes the idea that valuable resources should be utilized for the benefit of society rather than kept hidden. This reflects his broader philosophy that objects and knowledge should be used to foster moral and societal improvement.
**2. The Role of the ‘Knowledgeable Merchant’
The reference to a knowledgeable merchant is also significant. Confucius’ mention of waiting for someone who recognizes the jade’s value can be seen as a metaphor for his own quest for a ruler or a state that understands and values his teachings. Confucius was not only a philosopher but also an aspiring advisor who sought to implement his principles through capable leaders who could apply them effectively in governance.
**3. The Quest for Influence
The advice to sell the jade rather than keeping it suggests a deeper metaphor. Confucius was himself on a quest for a position where he could apply his teachings. By selling the jade, he is essentially advocating for a strategy where one’s talents and resources should be actively used to achieve a higher goal. This reflects his personal mission to promote his ideals of virtue and proper governance.
The Broader Implications
Confucius’ advice can be seen as a call to action for all who possess valuable resources or knowledge. It suggests that instead of hoarding resources for personal gain or prestige, individuals should seek opportunities where these can be utilized for the greater good. This lesson is timeless and can be applied in various contexts, from personal career decisions to broader societal roles.
By understanding and applying Confucius’ perspective, we can learn the importance of active engagement and purposeful use of our resources. Whether in personal endeavors or professional pursuits, this ancient wisdom encourages us to seek out ways to contribute meaningfully rather than merely accumulating value.
Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, was known for his profound insights into morality and society. One of his notable beliefs, illustrated through a historical anecdote, sheds light on his vision of cultural development and the role of the ‘gentleman’ in society.
In ancient China, the term “九夷” (Jiǔ Yí) referred to various tribes living in the eastern regions, which were perceived as remote and culturally undeveloped compared to the central plains. During Confucius’s time, these areas were considered backward and their inhabitants were viewed as uncivilized. However, Confucius’s perspective on this was both progressive and optimistic.
A historical dialogue records that Confucius expressed a desire to move to these distant regions. When questioned about the suitability of such a move, given the area’s perceived primitiveness, Confucius responded with a thought-provoking insight. He suggested that the presence of a “君子” (jūnzǐ), often translated as “gentleman” or “noble person,” would transform the environment. According to Confucius, the refinement and ethical leadership of a gentleman could elevate even the most secluded and underdeveloped areas, dispelling the notion of their inherent backwardness.
This belief was grounded in Confucian values that emphasized the transformative power of virtue and education. Confucius argued that the essence of culture and civilization did not lie solely in geographic or societal conditions but in the quality of individuals who lead and educate. By moving to these regions, a gentleman would bring wisdom, moral integrity, and cultural refinement, thus fostering progress and enlightenment.
Confucius’s view challenges the notion that progress is confined to already developed areas. Instead, it underscores the idea that any place, no matter how isolated or undeveloped, has the potential to thrive through the efforts of virtuous individuals. This perspective is a testament to the enduring relevance of Confucian thought in promoting the idea that human character and moral leadership are pivotal in societal advancement.