Confucian Wisdom on Wealth and Nobility: A Guide to Ethical Success
4·5 The Master said, “Wealth and high position are what men desire; but if they are not obtained in the way of duty, they are not to be enjoyed. Poverty and contempt are what men avoid; but if they are not escaped in the way of duty, they are not to be shunned. How can a superior man, who has renounced the use of the means of obtaining wealth and high position, be called a superior man? A superior man does not leave off the use of the means of obtaining them for a single meal, but goes on using them in a great emergency, and in a great distress.”
[Translation]
Confucius said, “Wealth and nobility are what everyone wants to obtain, but if they are not obtained by proper means, they will not be enjoyed. Poverty and lowliness are what everyone hates, but if they are not gotten rid of by proper means, they will not be gotten rid of. If a gentleman leaves benevolence, how can he be called a gentleman? A gentleman does not have time to deviate from benevolence even for a meal. Even in the most pressing of times, he must act according to benevolence. Even when he is in exile, he will act according to benevolence.
[Analysis]
This passage reflects Confucius’ view of reason and desire. In the past, Confucius studies often overlooked this passage, as if Confucius advocated that people should only have benevolence and righteousness, and not desire or profit. In fact, this is not the case. No one wants to live in poverty and destitution, and everyone wants to be rich and comfortable. But this must be achieved through legitimate means and channels. Otherwise, it is better to be poor and content than to enjoy wealth and comfort. This concept still has its undervalued value today. This chapter is worth careful study by researchers.
Confucius once said, “Wealth and nobility are what everyone wants to obtain, but if they are not obtained by proper means, they will not be enjoyed. Poverty and lowliness are what everyone hates, but if they are not gotten rid of by proper means, they will not be gotten rid of. If a gentleman leaves benevolence, how can he be called a gentleman? A gentleman does not have time to deviate from benevolence even for a meal. Even in the most pressing of times, he must act according to benevolence. Even when he is in exile, he will act according to benevolence.”
This passage highlights a key aspect of Confucian thought: the importance of ethical behavior in the pursuit of personal goals. Confucius acknowledges that people naturally desire wealth and social status. However, he emphasizes that these should only be pursued through honorable means. Acquiring wealth and status unethically leads to hollow and unenjoyable achievements.
Ethics Over Expediency
Confucius also addresses the opposite situation—poverty and lowliness. While these are conditions people generally strive to avoid, Confucius argues that escaping them through unethical means is equally unacceptable. This principle reinforces the idea that the path taken is just as important as the destination. True fulfillment and contentment come from adhering to ethical standards, regardless of one’s material circumstances.
The Superior Man
Central to Confucian philosophy is the concept of the “superior man” or “gentleman” (junzi). This individual consistently upholds benevolence and righteousness, even in challenging situations. According to Confucius, a true gentleman maintains his ethical principles unwaveringly, even when faced with significant hardships or temptations. This steadfast commitment to virtue defines the superior man.
Relevance in Modern Times
Confucius’ teachings on wealth and nobility are not relics of the past; they hold significant relevance in today’s world. In an era where the pursuit of success often involves ethical compromises, Confucian wisdom offers a timeless reminder of the importance of integrity. The concept of achieving goals through proper means, and the emphasis on ethical conduct, can guide individuals and organizations alike in their quests for success.