Confucius’ concept of “benevolence” is the core of Confucian ethics and morality, with rich and profound connotations, mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1、 The basic connotation of benevolence
Confucius’ concept of “benevolence” emphasizes harmonious coexistence between people, advocating for loving others, respecting others, and helping others. Specifically, the connotation of “ren” includes various virtues such as loyalty, forgiveness, respect, generosity, trustworthiness, sensitivity, and benevolence. Confucius believed that benevolence is the highest moral realm of human beings, and is the foundation for achieving personal cultivation, family harmony, national governance, and social harmony.
2、 The principle of benevolence in practice
Lover: Confucius believed that “loving others” is an extension and generalization of the foundation of benevolence, and is a recognition that has been externalized from blood relations. He advocates not only loving one’s own family, but also promoting this love to everyone, achieving “universal love for all”.
The Way of Loyalty and Forgiveness: Confucius proposed the basic principles of practicing the Way of Benevolence, which include “establishing oneself and others, achieving oneself and reaching others” and “not doing to others what one does not want oneself to do”. The former emphasizes actively helping others, while the latter emphasizes respecting others and not imposing one’s own will on others.
Self restraint and restoration of rites: Confucius believed that restraining oneself to achieve the Zhou rites is benevolence. By restraining one’s desires, regulating one’s behavior, and ensuring that words and actions conform to etiquette norms, one can achieve the state of benevolence.
3、 Ren’s political ideal
Confucius’ philosophy of benevolence is not limited to personal moral cultivation, but also involves national governance and social order. He advocates that rulers should govern the country with benevolence and morality, observe the people’s situation, oppose harsh governance, and win the support and love of the people through implementing benevolent governance. This benevolent governance ideology reflects Confucius’ pursuit of an ideal society and his concern for the well-being of the people.
4、 The spiritual realm of benevolence
Confucius also regarded benevolence as a spiritual realm. He believes that benevolent individuals can be content with the path of benevolence and maintain inner peace and steadfastness in any situation. Expressions such as “benevolence brings peace to benevolence”, “benevolence brings joy to mountains”, “benevolence brings tranquility”, and “benevolence brings longevity” all reflect Confucius’ praise and pursuit of the spiritual realm of benevolence.
In summary, Confucius’ concept of “benevolence” is an ethical and moral system that contains rich connotations and practical principles. It is not only a guide for personal moral cultivation, but also the cornerstone of national governance and social harmony. In today’s society, Confucius’ concept of “benevolence” still holds significant practical significance and value.