Confucius’ Advice: When to Sell Precious Treasures for Influence

[Original text]

9·13 Zi Gong said, “Is there a beautiful jade here, which is stored in a box (1) and hidden? Or is it sold to a good merchant (2)?” The Master said, “Sell it, sell it! I am waiting for a good merchant.”

[Notes]

(1)韫匵: a cabinet for storing objects.

(2)善贾: a merchant who knows his goods.

(3)沽: to sell.

[Translation]

Zigong said, “There is a beautiful jade here. Should I store it in a cabinet? Or should I find a merchant who knows his goods and sell it?” Confucius said, “Sell it, sell it! I am waiting for someone who knows his goods

.”

Commentary

“Wait for a buyer and sell it” illustrates the problem. Confucius claimed to be “waiting for a buyer,” and on the one hand, he lobbied everywhere to promote the rule of the world by virtue, expecting the rulers of various countries to follow his way

in the world; on the other hand, he was also ready to push himself into the position of governing the country and rely on the power of the regime to promote virtue. Therefore, this chapter reflects Confucius’s desire to seek a position.

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.