Confucius and the Elegance of Classical Chinese

7·18 The elegant language that you use (1), the Book of Songs, the Book of History, and the rites, are all elegant language.

[Notes]

(1) Ya Yan: The Zhou Dynasty’s capital was in the Shaanxi region, and the Zhou Dynasty’s official language, which was based on the Shaanxi dialect, was called “Ya Yan” at the time. Confucius usually spoke in the dialect of the state of Lu, but when reading the Book of Songs, the Book of History, and praising rituals, he used the Shaanxi dialect as the standard.

[Translation]

Confucius sometimes spoke Ya Yan, and when reading the Book of Songs, the Book of History, and praising rituals, he used Ya Yan.

In the realm of ancient Chinese culture, the term “雅言” (Yǎ yán) holds a special significance. Often translated as “elegant language,” it refers to a refined and cultured mode of speech used in formal contexts. To truly appreciate the depth of this concept, it helps to delve into its historical and cultural roots, particularly through the lens of Confucian practices.

What Is 雅言?

雅言, pronounced “Yǎ yán,” was a term used during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE) to describe the sophisticated language spoken in the region of present-day Shaanxi, the heartland of the Zhou civilization. This standard was considered the epitome of linguistic refinement and was used in official and ceremonial settings.

Confucius and 雅言

Confucius, the renowned Chinese philosopher, is often associated with this elegant form of speech. While he typically conversed in the local dialect of his native state of Lu, he adhered to 雅言 when reciting classical texts and performing rituals. This practice underscored the importance of preserving and respecting traditional forms of communication in sacred and scholarly contexts.

When Confucius read the “Shijing” (Book of Songs) or the “Shujing” (Book of Documents), or engaged in ceremonial praise, he used 雅言. This was not merely a matter of formality but a reflection of his deep respect for the cultural heritage and linguistic standards of his time. 雅言 was more than just a dialect; it was a symbol of the Zhou Dynasty’s cultural authority and intellectual legacy.

The Cultural Significance of 雅言

雅言 represented the linguistic elegance and moral virtue that were highly valued in Confucian thought. By using 雅言, Confucius was not only adhering to a linguistic standard but also upholding the cultural and moral ideals of his era. This practice highlights the relationship between language and culture in ancient China, where the mode of speech was closely tied to social status, ethical conduct, and the transmission of knowledge.

In contemporary terms, understanding 雅言 provides valuable insights into how ancient Chinese scholars and officials perceived language as a vehicle for preserving cultural integrity and transmitting ethical values. It reflects a time when the choice of language was a deliberate act of honoring tradition and maintaining societal norms.