The Analects – Chapter 10.14

When Confucius entered the Grand Temple (the ancestral temple of the ruler), he asked about every detail of the rites.

Note

On the surface, this statement from the Analects of Confucius describes he repeatedly asking questions inside the Grand Temple. In truth, it profoundly embodies the Confucian spirit of reverence and earnest learning. The Grand Temple was the most solemn and sacred space in the state, where ancestral rites were performed with extreme precision. Even though Confucius was deeply knowledgeable about ritual, he still inquired about every procedure – not out of ignorance, but out of sincere awe for ancestors, spirits, and the ritual order itself, fearing even the slightest error might desecrate the sacred. This “asking despite knowing” is a humble yet dignified ritual posture, revealing that the essence of ritual propriety lies in inner reverence, not mere technical fluency. It also reflects his attitude of utmost caution – as if “facing honored guests” – and his lifelong commitment to learning. Through this conduct, Confucius teaches that true ritual begins with reverence, and genuine knowledge begins with questioning. This practice critiques empty formalism and advocates for living transmission: ritual is not a set of memorized rules, but a lived practice continually renewed through devout participation.

Further Reading

The Master entered the Grand Temple and asked about everything. Someone said, “Who says the son of Zou knows ritual? He enters the Grand Temple and asks about everything!” When Confucius heard this, he replied, “That is ritual.” Analects 3.15 (Ba Yi)

入太廟，每事問。