Confucius Reflects on His Departed Disciples: A Tale of Loyalty and Loss

The Master said, “Those who have followed me from Chen and Cai (1) are not even at the gate (2).”

[Annotation]

(1) Chen and Cai: both were names of states.

(2) Not even at the gate: gate here refers to the place of instruction. Not even at the gate means that they are not being taught in person.

[Translation]

Confucius said, “Those students who followed me from the state of Chen to the state of Cai are no longer by my side to receive my teachings.”

[Commentary]

In 489 BC, Confucius and his students traveled from the state of Chen to the state of Cai. On the way, they were surrounded by the people of Chen and were starved for seven days. Many of the students were so hungry that they could not walk. The students who followed him at the time included Zilu, Zigong, Yan Yuan, and others. After Confucius returned to Lu in 484 BC, Zilu, Zigong and others left him one after another, and Yan Hui also died. Therefore, Confucius often missed them. This sentence reflects Confucius’s feelings.

In a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the bonds between a teacher and his students, Confucius once said, “Those who followed me from Chen to Cai are no longer here to receive my teachings.” This statement offers a glimpse into the deep sense of loss and nostalgia felt by one of China’s greatest philosophers.

Historical Context:

The year was 489 BC when Confucius, accompanied by his loyal students, traveled from the state of Chen to the state of Cai. Their journey was marked by hardship and adversity, as they were surrounded by hostile forces and faced a severe shortage of food. Many of Confucius’ students, including the renowned Zi Lu, Zi Gong, and Yan Yuan, suffered greatly during this time, with some unable to continue due to starvation.

Despite the challenges, the journey was a testament to the students’ dedication to their master and their commitment to his teachings. However, after returning to their home state of Lu in 484 BC, the tides of fate changed. Zi Lu, Zi Gong, and others eventually parted ways with Confucius, and the devoted Yan Yuan passed away. This separation left a significant void in Confucius’ life.

Emotional Reflection:

Confucius’ lamentation about his departed disciples reflects a profound sense of loss and longing. His words convey more than just a historical account; they encapsulate the emotional weight of losing those who once walked closely by his side. The phrase “no longer here to receive my teachings” highlights not only their physical absence but also the emotional and intellectual gap left by their departure.

Cultural Significance:

In Confucian thought, the relationship between a teacher and his students is of paramount importance. It embodies the ideals of loyalty, respect, and continuous learning. Confucius’ reflection on his students underscores the deep personal connections that define his philosophy. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that dedicated followers can have on a teacher’s life and the sorrow that accompanies their departure.

Conclusion:

Confucius’ expression of loss over his departed students offers a window into the emotional and philosophical dimensions of his teachings. It reflects a timeless human experience—dealing with separation and cherishing the memories of those who have influenced our lives. This poignant moment in Confucius’ life invites readers to appreciate the depth of his relationships with his students and the enduring legacy of his philosophical journey.

This exploration of Confucius’ sentiment provides insight into the rich tapestry of Chinese cultural values and the profound connections that define human relationships. Through understanding these reflections, American readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the universal themes of loyalty, loss, and the lasting impact of personal connections.