Confucius on the True Meaning of Ren: Treating Others with Respect and Fairness

Zhong Gong asked about ren. The Master said, “When you go abroad, behave as if you were receiving a great guest; when you employ people, behave as if you were assisting at a great sacrifice. Do not do to others as you would not have them do to you. Have no murmuring against you in the country, and no murmuring against you in the family.” Zhong Gong said, “I am not very clever, but I will do my best to follow this teaching.”

[Notes]

(1) When going out, treat people as if you were receiving a distinguished guest; when using people, treat them as if you were performing a major sacrifice: This means that when going out to do business or use people, one should be as respectful and serious as when receiving a distinguished guest or performing a major sacrifice.

(2) No complaints in the country, no complaints at home: Country refers to the country ruled by a feudal lord, and home refers to the fief ruled by a nobleman.

(3) Shi: to engage in, to do.

[Translation]

Zhong Gong asked what it meant to be benevolent. Confucius said, “When you go out to do business, you should treat it as if you were receiving a distinguished guest. When you order people around, you should treat it as if you were performing a major sacrifice. (Be serious and solemn.) Do not impose on others what you do not want yourself. Do not let people complain about you in the court of a feudal lord, and do not let people complain about you in the fief of a feudal lord.” Zhong Gong said, “Although I am stupid, I will do as you say.”

[Commentary]

This is a passage in which Confucius expounds on “benevolence” to his student Zhong Gong. He talked about two aspects of “benevolence.” First, he told his student to be serious and conscientious in serving the king and the people. Second, he told him to be lenient with others, “Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you.” Only by doing these two things can one take a big step toward benevolence. The saying “Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you” became a creed that was followed by later generations.

In a profound dialogue from the ancient Chinese classic texts, Confucius imparts essential wisdom about the virtue of “Ren” (仁), often translated as “benevolence” or “humanity.” The conversation takes place between Confucius and his disciple Zhong Gong, who seeks to understand the essence of this vital virtue.

The Essence of Ren: A Lesson in Respect

Zhong Gong asks Confucius how one should practice Ren. Confucius responds with two key principles:

Treating Every Task with Respect: Confucius advises that one should approach every task with the same reverence as if they were receiving a distinguished guest or performing a major ritual. This means that every action and interaction should be conducted with the utmost seriousness and respect. When managing people or dealing with responsibilities, one should approach these duties as if they were sacred, ensuring that one’s actions are thoughtful and considerate.

Empathy and Fairness: The second principle involves the golden rule: “Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.” This simple yet profound advice underscores the importance of empathy and fairness. It suggests that one’s actions towards others should be guided by the principle of reciprocity—treating others as one would like to be treated. By adhering to this rule, one can minimize resentment and foster a harmonious environment both in public and private spheres.

Applying These Principles in Governance and Personal Life

Confucius extends this advice to both public and private life. In governance, he emphasizes that leaders should act in a way that ensures there is no discontent among the people they govern. Similarly, within one’s personal domain, such as in a household, leaders should strive to create an environment free of grievances.

Zhong Gong acknowledges the significance of Confucius’ teachings and commits to following them, even though he admits his own limitations. This reflects the humility and dedication required to practice Ren effectively.

The Legacy of Confucius’ Teachings

The teachings of Confucius on Ren remain influential and relevant today. His emphasis on treating others with respect and fairness has been embraced as a guiding principle for ethical behavior. The idea of “己所不欲，勿施于人” (Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire) has become a fundamental tenet in various cultures, reinforcing the timeless value of empathy and integrity in human interactions.

Confucius’ advice to Zhong Gong illustrates the depth of his understanding of human nature and the importance of ethical conduct. By incorporating these principles into daily life, one can strive towards a more respectful and harmonious society, reflecting the enduring relevance of Confucian thought.