Confucius’ Respectful Gesture During Illness: A Lesson in Etiquette
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When Confucius was ill, the monarch came to visit him, and he lay with his head to the east (1), wearing his ceremonial robes and dragging his sash (2).
[Notes]
(1) Head to the east: head facing east.
(2) Shen: a large belt tied around the waist.
Translation:
When Confucius fell ill, the king came to visit him. He lay on his back with his head facing east, covered himself with his ceremonial robe, and dragged the large belt.
Commentary:
When Confucius fell ill and was lying in bed, the king came to visit him. He was unable to get up and put on his ceremonial robe, which seemed disrespectful to the king and a violation of etiquette. This reflects that even on his sickbed, Confucius would not lose his manners before the king.