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Today is September 28, which marks Confucius Day, an occasion to honor the profound wisdom and enduring legacy of the Venerated Enlightened Master, one of history’s most influential thinkers. The Great Enlightened Master Confucius was a Chinese philosopher and political thinker whose ideas became the foundation of Confucianism, a system of thought that has shaped East Asian culture, society, and governance for over 2,000 years. Confucius devoted His life to teaching principles of morality, proper conduct, respect for elders, and the importance of education and ritual. He believed that a just and harmonious society begins with virtuous individuals and wise leadership. His teachings, compiled by His disciples in works such as the “Analects,” have earned Him lasting reverence as a “Sage of Sages” in Chinese history and beyond. Master Confucius reflected on His personal growth throughout His life, saying, “At 15, I had my mind bent on learning. At 30, I stood firm. At 40, I had no doubts. At 50, I knew the decrees of Heaven. At 60, my ear was an obedient organ for the reception of truth. At 70, I could follow what my heart desired, without transgressing what was right.” Venerated Master Confucius lived during the Spring and Autumn period, a time marked with widespread conflict, social unrest, and the erosion of traditional values. According to this account, Great Master Confucius was born in the town of Zouyi, in the small State of Lu, which is situated in what is now central and southwestern Shandong Province in eastern China. According to legend, Master Confucius’ mother secretly visited Mount Niqiu to pray to the mountain Deity for a child. Her prayers were answered, and she later gave birth to Confucius. In honor of this connection, He was named “Qiu” and later given the courtesy name “Zhongni.” The “Record of Heretofore Lost Works” recounts another fascinating legend. Before His birth, Confucius’ mother dreamt of a qilin, a mythical being symbolizing peace and virtue, appearing amid celestial music and presenting a jade book at their home. As He reflected, “At 30, I stood firm.” By this time, He had established Himself as a teacher and scholar, attracting students eager to learn His views on ethics, governance, and personal cultivation. Master Confucius had a deep admiration for the traditions and values of the ancient Zhou dynasty. He believed that their system of rituals was essential to creating a just and harmonious society. If individuals recognized their roles and followed the appropriate rituals, society would maintain its balance. As Confucius once said, “If the people are governed by law and controlled through punishment, they may refrain from wrongdoing but feel no shame in committing crimes. If governed by virtue and regulated through ritual propriety, the people will not only understand shame but also correct their conduct.”
