When Confucius saw someone in mourning dress, an official wearing ceremonial robes and cap, or a blind person – even if they were younger than himself – he would always rise from his seat as a sign of respect. When passing by them, he would always quicken his pace.
Note
This passage from the Analects vividly illustrates how Confucius integrated humaneness (benevolence) with ritual propriety in daily conduct. He showed deep respect and compassion toward three types of people: those in mourning (symbolizing grief), officials in formal attire (symbolizing social duty and reverence), and the blind (symbolizing vulnerability). His actions were not mere formalities but sprang from genuine empathy and moral sensitivity to others’ circumstances. Notably, he “rose even if the other was younger,” showing that respect was based not on age or status alone, but on the ethical significance of the person’s situation or role. His practice of quickening his pace reflected humility and solemnity – avoiding any appearance of indifference or arrogance. This embodies the Confucian view that true ritual is not empty, but the outward expression of inner virtue.
子見齊衰者、冕衣裳者與瞽者，見之，雖少必作；過之，必趨。
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