The Four Virtues of a Great Leader: Confucius on the Governance of Zi Chan

5-16 Zi said to Zi Chan (1) that there were four ways of a gentleman: “His conduct towards himself is respectful, his service to his superiors is honorable, his support of the people is beneficial, and his making of the people is righteous.”

[Commentary

(1) ZiYuan: surname GongSun name Qiao, word ZiYuan, Zheng state doctor, did the main secretary, is Zheng MuGong’s grandson, for the Spring and Autumn period of Zheng state’s wise prime minister.

[Translation

Confucius commented on Zi Chan, saying that he had the four morals of a gentleman: “He behaved himself solemnly, he served his sovereign respectfully, he was kind in caring for the people, and he was lawful in serving the people.”

[Commentary

The way of a gentleman, which Confucius talks about in this chapter, is the way of government. Zi Chan ruled for 22 years at the time of Duke Zheng Jian and Duke Zheng Ding. At that time, Zi Chan was the fifth Duke of Mourning, Duke of Ping, Duke of Zhao, Duke of Zha, and Duke of Ding in the State of Jin, and the fifth King of Commonwealth, King of Kang, King of 郏敖, King of Ling, and King of Ping in the State of Chu, and it was the time when the two countries competed for power and were in constant war. The state of Zheng was situated in a key position between these two great states, but Zi Chan was able to respect and secure his state without being lowly or presumptuous, and was indeed an outstanding statesman and diplomat in ancient China. Confucius spoke highly of Zi Chan and believed that one should have these four morals of Zi Chan’s in order to rule and secure the country.

Confucius’ Teachings on Leadership: The Four Virtues of Zi Chan

Confucius, the renowned Chinese philosopher, held Zi Chan in high esteem, considering him one of the exemplary leaders of ancient China. Zi Chan, whose full name was Gong Sun Qiao, was a prominent statesman and a key figure during the Spring and Autumn period. He served as a high official in the State of Zheng under the rule of Duke Mu and Duke Ding. His governance is often cited as a model of virtuous leadership in Confucian thought.

Confucius admired Zi Chan for his adherence to what he saw as the four essential virtues of a noble leader. These virtues are crucial not only in personal conduct but also in effective governance. Let’s explore these virtues in detail:

Solemn Personal Conduct: Zi Chan was known for his dignified and respectful personal behavior. He embodied the Confucian ideal of self-discipline and propriety, maintaining a serious and respectful demeanor in his actions and interactions. This personal integrity was seen as a fundamental quality of a great leader, setting an example for others to follow.

Respectful Service to the Ruler: In his role as a high official, Zi Chan demonstrated deep respect for his sovereign. This respect was not merely superficial; it was rooted in a genuine commitment to serving the ruler with loyalty and honor. Confucius emphasized that such respectful service was essential for maintaining harmony and stability in the state.

Benevolent Care for the People: Zi Chan’s governance was marked by a genuine concern for the well-being of the common people. He implemented policies that were beneficial and compassionate, aiming to improve the lives of his subjects. This benevolence was crucial for fostering public trust and loyalty, and Confucius highlighted it as a key attribute of virtuous leadership.

Just and Lawful Administration: Lastly, Zi Chan’s approach to governance was characterized by fairness and adherence to laws. He ensured that the administration of the state was conducted according to established principles, avoiding arbitrary decisions and maintaining justice. This lawful approach helped secure respect and order within the state.

During Zi Chan’s time, China was embroiled in constant conflict and power struggles among various states. Despite the turbulent conditions, Zi Chan’s leadership managed to maintain the stability and respect of the State of Zheng. His ability to navigate these challenges while upholding these virtues made him a distinguished statesman and diplomat.

Confucius’ high regard for Zi Chan underscores the importance of these four virtues in effective governance. According to Confucian philosophy, a leader who embodies these qualities not only achieves personal moral excellence but also contributes significantly to the prosperity and stability of their state. Zi Chan’s legacy serves as a timeless example of how virtue and effective governance can coexist harmoniously.