Why Benevolence Is Key to Lasting Happiness and Success

4·2 The Master said, “He who is not benevolent cannot long endure poverty (1), nor can he long endure pleasure. The benevolent man is at ease in the way of benevolence (2), and the wise man acts in the way of benevolence for its own sake.”

[Annotation]

(1) Poverty: poverty, distress.

(2) At ease in the way of benevolence: at ease in the way of benevolence; acting in the way of benevolence for its own sake: acting in the way of benevolence because it is beneficial to oneself.

Translation

Confucius said, “People without benevolence cannot live in poverty for long, nor can they live in happiness for long. People of benevolence are content with the way of benevolence, and wise people only practice benevolence when they know that it is beneficial to them.”

Commentary

In this chapter, Confucius believes that people without benevolence cannot live in poverty or happiness for long, otherwise they will commit crimes or indulge in luxury. Only those with benevolence are content with benevolence, and only those with wisdom will practice benevolence. This idea is to encourage people to pay attention to their personal moral conduct, to be steadfast in their convictions and to maintain their integrity in any situation.

In the teachings of Confucius, the concept of benevolence is central to living a fulfilling and balanced life. According to Confucius, a person who lacks benevolence will find it difficult to sustain either poverty or pleasure for long. Benevolence, in this context, refers to kindness and moral integrity, qualities that shape how we interact with others and approach life’s challenges.

Confucius noted, “People without benevolence cannot live in poverty for long, nor can they live in happiness for long. People of benevolence are content with the way of benevolence, and wise people only practice benevolence when they know that it is beneficial to them.” This insight reveals a profound truth about the nature of benevolence and its role in our lives.

Understanding Benevolence

Benevolence, or “ren” in Chinese, is more than just kindness; it’s a fundamental virtue that involves acting with compassion and integrity. According to Confucius, a benevolent person is not only content with practicing kindness but does so because they believe it is inherently valuable. This means that true benevolence is not about seeking external rewards but about staying true to one’s moral principles.

The Consequences of Lack of Benevolence

Confucius emphasized that those who lack benevolence struggle to maintain stability in both adversity and prosperity. Without a strong moral foundation, individuals might react poorly to poverty by engaging in unethical behavior or might squander their good fortune through reckless indulgence. In essence, without benevolence, neither hardship nor success can be enjoyed sustainably.

The Role of Wisdom

The wise, as Confucius describes, are those who understand the intrinsic value of benevolence and practice it consistently. Wisdom is not just about knowing what is right but about recognizing the benefits of living a life guided by moral principles. When people practice benevolence for its own sake, they cultivate a deeper sense of satisfaction and stability.

Applying These Principles

In our modern lives, the lessons from Confucius can be applied to foster personal and professional growth. Embracing benevolence can lead to more meaningful relationships and a more fulfilling career. It encourages us to act with integrity and compassion, regardless of the circumstances. By prioritizing benevolence, we not only improve our own lives but also contribute positively to the lives of those around us.