Confucianism is an important component of traditional Chinese culture, emphasizing the relationship between personal cultivation and social responsibility. Especially the concept of “self-restraint and restoration of propriety” is not only the core of Confucian ethics, but also an important reference for the moral construction of modern society. In this article, we will delve into the connotation, historical background, and practical significance of “self-restraint and restoration of propriety” in contemporary society.
1、 What is’ self-restraint and restoration of propriety ‘
The concept of ‘self-restraint and restoration of propriety’ originated from the Analects, which means self-restraint in order to follow the teachings of propriety. The term ‘self-restraint’ here emphasizes personal moral cultivation, reflecting Confucianism’s high emphasis on personal character; And ‘Fu Li’ emphasizes the importance of social behavior norms, believing that individual behavior should conform to the moral standards of society. In other words, individual behavior should be subject to the moral framework of society as a whole.
2、 The historical origins of “self-restraint and restoration of propriety”
As a representative concept of Confucianism, “self-restraint and restoration of propriety” originated from the social background of the Spring and Autumn period. At that time, society was in turmoil and the ethics of etiquette were being undermined. Confucius advocated the restoration of moral standards centered on “etiquette” in order to achieve social harmony and stability. In the Analects of Confucius, Confucius said, “A gentleman should have noble moral character and use it as a guide to regulate his own behavior.
3、 The connotation and significance of “self-restraint and restoration of etiquette”
- Self restraint: The importance of self-cultivation “Self restraint” is the foundation of self-restraint and self-improvement. It promotes individuals to abandon selfish desires and cultivate good moral qualities through inner cultivation. Self restraint can help people better control their emotions and desires, enabling them to maintain rationality and clarity in complex social environments.
- Fuli: The embodiment of social norms “Fuli” refers to the norms and constraints of individuals’ behavior. Confucianism believes that etiquette is not only an external norm, but also an external manifestation of an individual’s inner moral cultivation. The implementation of etiquette can help maintain social order and achieve harmonious relationships between people. Once individuals are able to perform ‘fu li’, society will become more harmonious and beautiful.
- The interactive relationship between “self-restraint” and “reciprocity” is not independent, but complementary. If an individual lacks the spirit of self-restraint, the act of returning to etiquette may become superficial and fail to truly reflect the depth of morality; On the contrary, without the guidance of etiquette, self-restraint may become aimless. Therefore, self-restraint and reciprocity are mutually reinforcing, forming the core values of Confucianism.
As an important component of Confucianism, ‘self-restraint and restoration of propriety’ carries profound cultural heritage and moral wisdom. In the rapidly changing modern society, it not only provides standards for individual behavior to follow, but also provides methods for social harmony. No matter how the times change, the value of self-restraint and returning to etiquette is always worth inheriting and practicing.
