Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
All Lu’s royal music masters scattered to distant states and riverfronts. Their mass exile symbolizes the total collapse of Zhou ritual-music systems, revealing the chaotic era without the Dao and Confucius’ sorrow over lost cultural order.
Mencius outlines the Zhou’s five noble ranks and six official grades, with matching land and salary tiers. Lost full records left only a rough outline. Its graded pay ensures scholars need not farm, forming a stable hierarchical system for orderly benevolent governance.
Confucius tells Zilu righteousness outweighs courage. Without moral guidance, a bold gentleman stirs unrest, while a fearless petty man turns to theft. True bravery must be governed by righteousness to avoid harming society.
Confucius lists three things he detests: purple replacing proper vermilion, frivolous Zheng tunes corrupting solemn ritual music, and glib manipulative orators ruining states, warning against fake substitutes that subvert orthodox rites and morality.
The Master said, “When those in high position value and practice ritual propriety, the people are easy to guide.”
Zizhang asked, “The Book of Documents says, ‘When Gaozong was in mourning, he did not speak for three years.’ What does this mean?”The Master replied, “It was not only Gaozong – this was the practice of all ancient people. When a ruler died, all officials managed their own duties and submitted to the Chief…
The Master said, “If you are not in a particular position, do not meddle in its affairs.”Zengzi added, “The noble person’s thoughts do not go beyond his proper role.”
8.15The Master said, “When Zhi the Chief Musician led the climax of the Ospreys (Guan Ju), what a grand flood of sound filled one’s ears!”
8.14The Master said, “He who holds no rank in a State does not discuss its policies.”