Why Merit Outshines Birthright: Confucius on Talent and Character

6-6 The son called Zhong Gong and said, “The plow ox(1) is a bay horse and horn(2). Although you want not to use (3), mountains and rivers (4) stick sheds Zhu (5)?”

[Notes

(1) plow oxen: that is, plow oxen. Ancient sacrificial oxen can not be replaced by plow farmers, the Department of red hair and long horns, raised separately.

(2) bay horse and horn: bay horse: sound xīn, red. Sacrificial oxen with red hair and long horns.

(3) use: for sacrifice.

(4) shanchuan: god of mountains and rivers. This is a metaphor for the upper rulers.

(5) its Sheju: its, with the meaning of “how can”. Shed, give up. Zhu, “of the” two words of the sound.

Translation

Commenting on Zhong Gong, Confucius said, “The calf born of a plow ox has red hair and neat horns, and although people want not to use it as a sacrifice, will the gods of the mountains and rivers give it up?”

[Commentary

According to Confucius, one’s birth is not the most important thing, the important thing is that one should have noble morals and outstanding talents. As long as one possesses such conditions, he will be reused. On the other hand, this also shows that, as a ruler, the selection and reuse of talents should not be based only on the origin and abandon the virtuous talents, reflecting the idea of promoting the virtuous talents and opposing the idea of nepotism.

In a notable commentary, Confucius reflected on the character of a person named Zhong Gong. He remarked, “The calf born from the ox used for plowing has a reddish coat and well-formed horns. Even if people might wish not to use it for sacrifices, will the gods of the mountains and rivers reject it?” This statement, rich in cultural and philosophical layers, underscores Confucius’s belief in the inherent worth of individuals based on their virtues and skills rather than their social status.

To understand the depth of Confucius’s analogy, let’s break it down:

The Red Plow Ox: In ancient China, oxen used for plowing were distinctive from sacrificial cattle. The sacrificial cattle, characterized by their reddish fur and well-formed horns, were specially raised and deemed valuable for ritualistic purposes. Confucius used this imagery to convey the idea that while some might undervalue or overlook this special cattle, its inherent worth—evident through its attributes—was recognized by the gods.

The Metaphor’s Meaning: Confucius was emphasizing that a person’s value is not determined by their birth or family background but by their personal qualities and abilities. Just as the sacrificial cattle have a recognized value despite its intended use, individuals with noble character and exceptional talent will eventually be valued and utilized, regardless of their origins.

The Broader Implication: This analogy also reflects Confucius’s broader philosophy about governance and meritocracy. He believed that leaders should focus on the virtues and capabilities of individuals rather than their social standing. By prioritizing merit, rulers would ensure that the most qualified individuals are appointed to important positions, promoting a more just and effective society.

Cultural Insight: Confucius’s teachings challenge the notion of nepotism and favoritism. They advocate for a system where merit and virtue are the primary criteria for recognition and advancement. This idea was revolutionary in the context of ancient China’s hierarchical society and remains relevant in modern discussions about fairness and talent recognition.、