The Analects – Chapter 142 (6.24). Confucius’ Vision of Political Transformation

6.24
A single change could bring Qi to the level of Lu; and a single change would bring Lu to Dao.

子曰：「齊一變，至於魯；魯一變，至於道。」

Notes

During the reign of Duke Ding of Lu, Confucius held official positions in the State of Lu for approximately four years. He rose steadily through the ranks, achieved remarkable political accomplishments, and briefly put his political ideals into practice.

Confucius said: With one transformation, the State of Qi could reach the level of Lu; with one transformation, the State of Lu could reach the Way (Dao).

• Qi was a powerful state during the Spring and Autumn period, known for its prosperous industry and commerce and strong military, but had weak ritual institutions.
• ‘One transformation’ refers to a fundamental reform of governance principles.
• ‘Reach the level of Lu’ indicates achieving Lu’s standard – as the fiefdom of Duke Zhou, Lu best preserved Zhou rituals, earning the fame ‘All Zhou rituals reside in Lu.’
• Though Lu maintained Zhou ritual traditions, by the late Spring and Autumn period it showed signs of ritual collapse, such as the Ji family’s transgressions.
• ‘Reach the Way’ means attaining the Confucian ideal political state – benevolent governance centered on humaneness/benevolence, regulated by Zhou rituals, achieving social harmony.