Confucius’ Three Cautions: Ritual Purity, Warfare, and Health

7·13 The things you should be careful about: fasting, war, and illness.

[Notes]

(1) Qi: the same as zhai, meaning to fast. In ancient times, before a sacrifice, people would bathe, change clothes, not eat meat, not drink alcohol, and not sleep with their wives or concubines. They would purify their bodies and minds to show their piety. This is called fasting.

[Translation]

The three things that Confucius was careful about were fasting, war, and illness.

Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, emphasized three areas of life where caution and mindfulness are paramount: ritual purity, warfare, and health. These elements reflect the essence of Confucian wisdom and provide timeless lessons for modern readers.

Ritual Purity (齐)

In ancient China, the concept of “齐” (Qí), or ritual purity, was crucial. Before participating in religious ceremonies, individuals were required to undergo a period of purification. This involved bathing, changing into clean clothes, abstaining from meat and alcohol, and refraining from sleeping with one’s spouse. This practice, known as “斋戒” (zhāijiè), was a way to show devotion and respect to the divine.

In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of ritual purity might seem outdated. However, it serves as a reminder of the importance of mindfulness and respect in our daily routines. By setting aside time to cleanse our minds and bodies, we can approach our responsibilities with greater focus and sincerity.

Warfare

Confucius lived in a time of great political turmoil, and he understood the devastating impact of war. He advocated for careful deliberation and ethical considerations before engaging in any conflict. The horrors of war, the loss of lives, and the suffering it causes were matters that Confucius believed should never be taken lightly.

For modern readers, this caution against war underscores the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions and understanding the gravity of armed conflict. It reminds us to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue over aggression and violence.

Health

The third area Confucius emphasized was health. In his time, diseases were rampant and often fatal. Confucius stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to maintain one’s health. This included practices such as regular exercise, proper diet, and cleanliness.

In contemporary society, with advances in medical science, the wisdom of Confucius still holds true. Preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyle choices, and maintaining mental well-being are crucial for a fulfilling life. By being mindful of our health, we can lead more productive and happier lives.