Filial Piety’s Role in Ancient China Essay - 2270 Words

In the 18th century, China was influenced by various teachings of philosophers and beliefs that the society had placed emphasis on. Filial piety (xiao) was a major practice around this period when it was strongly carried inside and outside the household. Filial piety is not only the guiding principle of Chinese ethics but it also played an affirmative role in determining the Chinese lifestyle; it was practiced daily in the family and in other areas such as education, religion and government. It was the central root of Chinese morals and the society was constructed upon the principles of xiao, which certainly became the premises of Chinese culture and the society. In Confucianism, the approach of respect, fidelity, and care toward one’s†¦show more content†¦But even dogs or horses are given food. If there is no feeling of reverence, wherein lies the difference? (Chan Watson, pp. 29)†. The quotation by Confucius defines the practice of filial piety by contrasti ng humans with animals, and stating that by providing food or necessities to the parents is not enough, but that there are responsibilities beyond providing necessities. For Confucius, a child giving respect to his parents while they are alive could be done by animals as well, however to be a filial child one must show respect for their parent even after their death. Even as far as the Han dynasty, in which Confucianism was recognized as a state orthodoxy , is also regarded as administrator endorsement of filial piety, thoroughly constructing unfilial behaviour a punishable crime and rewarding acts of filial piety (Chan, Alan Kam-Leung; Tan, Sor-hoon). Han emperors took on xiao as part of their title and filial piety entered more and more regularly into the dynastic histories and other historical works (Chan, Alan Kam-Leung; Tan, Sor-hoon). Filial piety was practiced all the way through the dynasties and especially in this century where many philosophers, including Confucius, focuse d on bringing this practice into society for better development of the families and society. Similar to Confucius, Chu Hsi also emphasized filial piety in his proclamations. Chu Hsi became a successful administrative and supporter of education as a local