Confucius Addresses the Modern American Political Landscape

 

I’ve been reading recently from The Sayings of Confucius (as translated by James R. Ware - 1955). Though never deified, Confucius has been revered, and still is today, as the “First Teacher” and “Sagest of the Sage.” We could learn from his teachings. 

 The following sayings seem especially relevant to our times. Those with ears to hear will understand. 

 From Chapter XIII 

 19 - Fan Hsii asked about Manhood-at-it’s-best. “At home be humble; at work be respectful; with others be loyal. Even among the barbarians you may not abandon these precepts.”

 23 - “Great Man is accommodating , but he is not one of the crowd. Petty Man is one of the crowd, but he is also a source of discord.” 

 26 - “Great Man is dignified but not proud. Petty Man is proud but not dignified.” 

 the ideal man, according to Confucius, is not defined by his social status, wealth, or power, but rather by his character and ethical behavior. His teachings also idealizes a strict patriarchy- but the truth of it is applicable to everyone regardless of gender.