Xiao Jing 孝經 – Early Meaning of Xiao 孝 and Translation of Text

Keywords: Xiao Jing; Zengzi; Confucius; Confucian ethical concepts; self-developement; xiao; filial piety; ren; behaviour towards people

Abstract

The paper contains translation of Confucian classical text Xiao Jing into Polish with analysis of early meaning of xiao, usually translated into English as a “filial piety.” Loving and caring for one parents while they are alive and offer sacrifices after their death is the core meaning of xiao. A person who learnt to obey and care for parents is able to extend that feeling to others outside the family. That makes xiao the root of ren — an exemplary behaviour towards all people. Hence learning how to behave in xiao way is first stage of Confucian self-developement. Traditionally ascribed to Confucius’ student Zengzi, Xiao Jing provides short but important insight into one of Confucian core ethical concepts.

References

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Läänemets, Märt. 1996. „The Conception of Filial Piety in Early Confucian Texts”. Religio. Revue pro Religionistiku, 4, issue 2: 139–148. Studie. Dostęp 30.04.2019. https://digilib.phil.muni.cz/bitstream/handle/11222.digilib/124763/2_Religio_4-1996-2_5.pdf?sequence=1.

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Published
2019-11-05
Section
Articles