Confucius on Integrity and Leadership: Lessons from Shiyu and Quboyu

The Master said, ”How upright is Shi Yu! When the state is governed according to the Way, he is like an arrow; when it is not, he is like an arrow. How upright is Qu Bo-yu! When the country is governed according to the Way, he serves it; when it is not, he rolls it up and carries it in his bosom.”

[Notes] (1) Shi Yu: a minister of the State of Wei, whose name was Shi and whose courtesy name was Yu. He recommended Qu Bo-yu to the king of Wei many times. (2) Like an arrow: the arrow, the arrow, describes its straightness. (3) Roll up: the same as ‘roll up.’

[Translation] Confucius said, ”Shi Yu is really upright! When the country is ruled by virtue, his words and deeds are as straight as an arrow; when the country is ruled by unrighteousness, his words and deeds are also as straight as an arrow. Qu Bo-yu is also a true gentleman! When the country is ruled by virtue, he comes out to be an official; when the country is ruled by unrighteousness, he (resigns from his official position) and keeps his opinions to himself.

[Commentary] From the content of the text, it can be seen that Shi Yu and Bo Yu are different. Shi Yu was straightforward when the country was either virtuous or vicious, while Bo Yu only came out to be an official when the country was virtuous. Therefore, Confucius said that Shi Yu was “straightforward” and Bo Yu was “a gentleman.”

Confucius, a central figure in Chinese philosophy, often used historical figures to illustrate key principles of integrity and leadership. In one of his teachings, he reflects on two historical figures: Shiyu and Quboyu, to highlight different aspects of virtue and propriety. He says, “Shiyu was truly upright! When the state is just, his actions are as straightforward as an arrow; when the state is unjust, his actions remain just as straightforward. Quboyu was indeed a true gentleman! When the state is just, he serves; when the state is unjust, he withdraws and keeps his principles to himself” (直哉史鱼！邦有道，如矢；邦无道，如矢。君子哉蘧伯玉！邦有道，则仕；邦无道，则可卷而怀之).

Confucius praises Shiyu for his unwavering integrity. Shiyu, a historical official from the State of Wei, is described as being consistent in his uprightness, whether the state is just or not. His actions are metaphorically compared to an arrow—straight and direct—regardless of the political circumstances. This metaphor signifies that Shiyu’s moral character remains constant and unshakable in the face of changing political environments.

In contrast, Confucius describes Quboyu, another historical figure, as a true gentleman. Quboyu’s approach to service is more selective. He serves when the state is just and withdraws when it is not, choosing to keep his principles close to his heart rather than compromise them in an unjust environment. This selective engagement reflects a different kind of virtue, where the individual’s commitment to righteousness influences their actions in relation to their political context.

Confucius’s comparison highlights two different but complementary aspects of moral character and leadership. Shiyu represents the ideal of unwavering integrity, demonstrating that true virtue means being consistent and principled, irrespective of external conditions. On the other hand, Quboyu embodies the ideal of thoughtful engagement, showing that it is also virtuous to adapt one’s role based on the righteousness of the state, maintaining one’s principles in the process.

The teaching underscores that integrity and moral conduct are not one-size-fits-all. While consistency is crucial, the context in which one operates can influence the best course of action. Confucius’s reflections provide valuable insights into how individuals can navigate complex moral landscapes, balancing steadfastness with adaptability in their personal and professional lives.

Confucius’s observations on Shiyu and Quboyu offer timeless lessons on leadership and integrity. They teach us that while unwavering virtue is a mark of true character, understanding when and how to act based on the justice of the situation is also a significant aspect of moral wisdom. These principles remain relevant today, guiding us in our pursuit of ethical behavior and effective leadership.