In ancient Chinese philosophy, The Mean is revered for its emphasis on benevolence and righteousness. This concept runs through the entire canon and becomes the essence of Confucianism. Let's go deep into the study of benevolence and righteousness in "The Mean", interpret the way of the sage, and the enlightenment of this for individual moral cultivation.
1.The theoretical cornerstone of the way of benevolence and righteousness
The explanation of benevolence and righteousness in "The Mean" can be described as profound and comprehensive. The book mentions: "The golden mean is also virtue, and it is the best!."The people can live for a long time. It is clearly pointed out here that the "mean" is the highest criterion of virtue, and the "middle" is the theoretical cornerstone of the path of benevolence and righteousness. The benevolent love others, and the righteous do righteousness, and the two complement each other and are the origin of the virtue of the saint.
2.The practice and embodiment of benevolence
In The Mean, the idea of benevolence is described in detail. It says: "He who loves his neighbor first speaks for himself and then for others." Take what you do for yourself. This shows that benevolent people should first lead by example and influence others through their words and actions. In modern society, this philosophy still has a profound guiding role in leadership and relationships. Through sincere care and understanding of others, we can form a positive interpersonal network and achieve social harmony and development.
3.The social significance of the study of righteousness
Righteousness, that is, the principle of integrity and fairness. In The Mean, the study of righteousness is seen as an outward manifestation of benevolence. The book mentions: "A gentleman is a gentleman, and he is born from the beginning." Filial piety is also the foundation of benevolenceIt is emphasized that the starting point of individual moral cultivation is filial piety and respect for elders, which is a kind of inheritance of traditional values. At the same time, through the establishment of correct intentions and the realization of moral sublimation, individuals can better integrate into society and contribute to the harmonious development of society while pursuing the way of benevolence and righteousness.
4.The quest for the way of the saints
In The Mean, the way of the sage is regarded as the highest state of Confucian ideals. The book says: "The way of a gentleman is to complement each other and govern each other." Filial piety is also the way to complement each other!This shows that the study of benevolence and righteousness is not only the inner pursuit of individual cultivation, but also an effective means of social governance. In reality, we can promote social fairness and justice and achieve better governance results by advocating the study of benevolence and righteousness.
5.The enlightenment of individual moral cultivation
For individuals, the study of benevolence and righteousness in The Mean provides profound enlightenment. First of all, we should pay attention to self-cultivation, cultivate filial piety, and establish upright morality. Second, we should pay attention to the practice of matching words with deeds, influencing others through our own words and deeds, and realizing the path of benevolence. Finally, it is necessary to understand the study of righteousness, uphold the principle of justice, and fulfill social responsibilities impartially.
6.Conclusion
The study of benevolence and righteousness in The Mean, with its profound theoretical and practical value, has become an indispensable part of Confucianism. Through the enlightenment of the way of the saints, we are better able to understand the relationship between individual cultivation and social harmony. I hope that each individual can contribute to the prosperity and progress of society under the guidance of the study of benevolence and righteousness while realizing his or her personal value.