Navigating Relationships and Honor: Mencius on Social Conduct and Governance
Translation:
Wan Zhang asked, “May I ask what mindset should be used when interacting with others?”
Mencius replied, “Respectfulness is key.”
Wan Zhang questioned, “Isn’t repeatedly refusing gifts disrespectful? Why is that?”
Mencius responded, “When a person of high status offers a gift, one should consider whether accepting it is the best course of action. To accept it after much deliberation is disrespectful, so it should not be refused initially.”
Wan Zhang asked further, “What if we don’t refuse verbally but reject it in our hearts, thinking, ‘This gift is not obtained in the best way,’ and then decline with another excuse? Is that acceptable?”
Mencius replied, “Interactions and exchanges follow certain social norms, which is why even Confucius accepted gifts.”
Wan Zhang posed another scenario, “If an enemy outside our borders follows the proper protocols in gifting, can we accept or resist such gifts?”
Mencius answered, “We cannot accept them. The ‘Kang Gao’ states, ‘Those who kill and plunder without fear are universally despised by the people and can be executed without awaiting reformation.’ This principle was passed from Xia to Yin and then to Zhou, remaining unchanged. With the rising instances of such behavior, how can we accept their gifts?”
Wan Zhang then asked, “Today’s feudal lords take from the people, seemingly resisting them. If they use proper social norms in their interactions and gifts, should scholars accept them?”
Mencius explained, “Do you think a sage king would kill all current feudal lords immediately, or would he educate them first and then act if they remain unrepentant? The term ‘robber’ here is abstract; it doesn’t mean they are actual robbers. When Confucius served in Lu, he participated in their hunting games despite their contentious nature. If even hunting is acceptable, why not accepting their rewards?”
Wan Zhang queried, “Did Confucius not serve in order to pursue the way of life?”
Mencius affirmed, “He was indeed pursuing the way of life.”
Wan Zhang continued, “Is pursuing the way of life compatible with participating in hunting games?”
Mencius clarified, “Confucius corrected the ceremonial vessels’ use in sacrifices before changing the provision source. He didn’t leave because he aimed to guide the people. Once he saw the ruler’s failure to act, he left within three years. Confucius took office under different circumstances: he served Ji Huanzi because the way was practicable, served Duke Ling of Wei to align with his intentions, and served Duke Xiao of Wei because he fostered worthy individuals.”
Analysis:
This passage from “Mencius – Wan Zhang I” revolves around principles of social interaction, the etiquette of accepting gifts, and the criteria for scholars taking office. Through the dialogue between Mencius and Wan Zhang, Mencius’ adherence to and flexible application of ethical principles are vividly illustrated.
Respect in Interactions
Mencius emphasizes respectfulness as the foundation of all interactions. This respect transcends mere etiquette; it represents an inner sincerity. When offered a gift by someone of higher status, it is crucial to first consider the moral implications of its origin. If the gift’s source is questionable, it should be declined, as accepting it after initial hesitation demonstrates disrespect. This approach underscores the principle of maintaining integrity and moral rectitude in all interactions.
The Etiquette of Accepting Gifts
Mencius distinguishes between accepting aid and accepting rewards. Accepting aid from a ruler is akin to aiding a commoner in need and is therefore appropriate. However, accepting rewards can imply a transactional relationship, compromising the scholar’s independence and integrity. By maintaining this distinction, Mencius preserves the scholar’s moral autonomy, underscoring that true respect and support must align with ethical standards.
Historical Precedents and Modern Implications
Mencius references historical precedents to illustrate his points. The acceptance of succession from Xia to Yin and Yin to Zhou was considered righteous because it adhered to divine will. However, contemporary feudal lords, if they exploit their people and act like robbers, even if they follow social norms in gifting, their gifts are not to be accepted. This viewpoint highlights Mencius’ unwavering commitment to justice and moral integrity.
Confucius’ Flexibility and Principles
Mencius uses Confucius’ example to demonstrate the balance between flexibility and principle. Confucius participated in contentious hunting games to correct improper practices, showing that he engaged in seemingly contradictory activities to achieve higher moral goals. Mencius elaborates that Confucius’ decisions to serve or leave office were based on the ruler’s moral alignment and actions, illustrating a pragmatic yet principled approach to governance.
Three Types of Service
Mencius outlines three scenarios for scholars taking office: when the way can be practiced, when intentions can align, and when the ruler supports worthy individuals. These scenarios reflect different motivations and principles for service, emphasizing a balance between maintaining ethical standards and responding to practical realities.
This passage from Mencius offers profound insights into the principles of social interaction, gift acceptance, and the criteria for scholars taking office. Mencius’ teachings reflect the core values of Confucian thought: respect, integrity, and moral rectitude. By emphasizing the importance of ethical standards in all aspects of life, Mencius provides timeless guidance for maintaining honor and dignity in both personal and professional relationships.
In contemporary terms, Mencius’ insights remind us of the importance of upholding integrity and moral purpose in all our interactions. The principles of respect, proper conduct, and ethical support are as relevant today as they were in ancient China, offering valuable lessons for navigating relationships and maintaining ethical standards in today’s complex world.