Introduction
Unexpected ideas and principles from various teachings are a mechanism that helps put together a specific thought process, stimulating it to improve. Confucius was an ancient Chinese philosopher and statesman who, during his life, expounded many important wisdoms that were preserved and passed on by his students. Of all the readings I have done this semester, this one benefited me most in a way that helped define the ethical ideal of human behavior. This work has become useful because it highlights the main qualities with the help of which society can be constructed. The period of his life fell on a problematic situation within China, which contributed to the formation of a particular worldview in him. One of the exciting and central concepts of Confucius for me was “junzi” which describes the path of a noble person.
The ‘Junzi’ Concept in Confucianism
Confucianism, which originated from the teachings of Confucius, represented a large number of quality ideas and concepts. One of these is “junzi,” which occupies a central place in the philosophy of the spiritual figure. It represents the image of a noble person who shapes themself through the educational process and knowledge of the world around them, thus becoming better and more educated (“Genius of the Ancient World Confucius Episode 3 of 3,” 2:00-2:20). The idea of an ideal person who meets all moral qualities and values is an idea that symbolizes the teachings of Confucius.
“Junzi” consists of many principles that accordingly became interesting to me while familiarizing myself with his work. Moral integrity is one of the concepts that is the basis for the teachings of Confucius and provides the basic understanding of what a person should strive for. This reflects a kind of ethical code that makes this provision relevant today, long after its representation. In addition, much attention is paid to self-improvement since Confucius said that “Each day I examine myself” (Eno 1). An individual can learn throughout their life, which can help them get closer to the concept of a worthy person.
Benevolence is also an unexpected concept that I encountered from Confucius’s teachings. Together with compassion, this concept reflects the formation of a righteous person as a necessity that must be strived for throughout life. Thus, this could become an important reference point and value for many people who became followers of the teacher.
Showing kindness and empathy towards other people was important for the formation of Confucian “engagement and social reformism” (Eno 101). In the “junzi” concept, this is combined with acquired wisdom, which should become the foundation for the formation of a person’s inner world. The knowledge that forms wisdom can come throughout life due to the principle of continuous improvement and learning discussed above.
Wisdom and knowledge are necessary aspects for cultivating ethical treatment of others. Resolution of complex moral problems can only be possible when the person “put aside what seems doubtful, and assert the remainder with care” (Eno 7). Focusing on these perspectives reinforces the importance of harmony in the social order, which should ensure prosperity for society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the principle of “junzi” as the central concept emphasized in the reading is essential to understanding the teachings of Confucius. His worldview can teach much in the modern world as it strongly resonates with current ethical standards. Education and the desire to become a worthy person can be the basis for shaping society in such a way as to make it comfortable for all participants. The humanistic values and concepts formed by Confucius seem unexpected since they were compiled a long time ago and have stood the extended test of time. This means they can provide a quality foundation for people to apply Confucianism in everyday life and maximize their interpersonal relationships, making them enjoyable.
Works Cited
“Genius of the Ancient World Confucius Episode 3 of 3.” YouTube, uploaded by The Good Life Mentor. 2017. Web.
Eno, Robert. The Analects of Confucius. An Online Teaching Translation. 2015.
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