Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s9.t2.10

v1.c7.s9.t2.10

Confucius’ Analects not just touches upon the aspects of benevolence and filial piety, the most important aspect that is elaborated is way of governance. Confucius’ response to his disciples’ question in this aspect in Analects preserves his attitude and viewpoint toward politics. Confucius said, “He who rules the country by virtue can be compared to the Polestar which holds its own with a multitude of stars revolving around it” (He Who Rules the Country), suggesting the virtue is the foundation for becoming a good statesman, as he believed that the kernel of political governance lies in cultivating morale of the people. When asked the reason of his not becoming involved in government, he answered, “The Book of Historical Documents says, ‘Piety means being filial to your parents and being fraternal to your brothers; spreading this idea will exert and influence upon the government.’ If that is so, why must I take part in government?” (Quoted from He Who Rules the Country), Confucius believes that holding a key official position is not the only conduit of becoming a good statesman, actually good governance skills and ethical conduct can be acquired through daily practices and interaction within human relations. “Sweeping before your own door” maxim can be practised in daily life whenever and wherever. Confucius emphasised, “Let them know the way of virtue and keep them in line with regulations and rituals” (He Who Rules the Country), also he emphasised that, “Tolerance wins the hearts of many; generosity gives one authority to use others” (Yang Huo) and his objection to arbitrary punishment of kill. In his view, the law and order of a society and country could not be maintained merely by law and regulations, nor sustained merely by posing criminal penalty, but should be maintained by prevailing law-abiding populace which is induced and nurtured with lavish bestowing virtue and magnanimity from the state governor. Thus it can be seen that Confucius’ political theory is benevolence-based.