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Analects · Chapter

Book X: Heang Tang explained

This chapter details Confucius's conduct in various social and ceremonial contexts, emphasizing his adherence to ritual propriety, respect for authority, and meticulous attention to dress, diet, and behavior.

What happens

This chapter details Confucius's conduct in various social and ceremonial contexts, emphasizing his adherence to ritual propriety, respect for authority, and meticulous attention to dress, diet, and behavior. It illustrates his humility in daily life, his precise court manners, his reverence in ancestral temples, and his care in matters of mourning and sacrifice.

Themes in this chapter

  • Ritual and Propriety

    The entire chapter is a detailed exposition of Confucius's adherence to ritual and propriety in all aspects of life, from court ceremonies to daily habits.

  • The Superior Man

    Confucius's conduct exemplifies the ideal of the superior man, who embodies proper behavior in every situation.

Characters to notice

  • Confucius

    Central figure; his behaviors in village, court, temple, and daily life are described in detail.

  • Tsze-lû

    Appears at the end, interacting with the hen-pheasant.

  • Chî K’ang

    Sends Confucius a gift of physic, which Confucius receives with a bow but does not taste.

Key passages

  • “Confucius, in his village, looked simple and sincere, and as if he were not able to speak.”

    In his home village, Confucius appeared unassuming and genuine, as if he lacked eloquence.

    Highlights his humility in informal settings.

  • “When the ruler was present, his manner displayed respectful uneasiness; it was grave, but self-possessed.”

    In the presence of the ruler, he showed a respectful nervousness, yet remained composed and serious.

    Illustrates his reverence for authority.

  • “When he was passing the vacant place of the prince, his countenance appeared to change, and his legs to bend under him, and his words came as if he hardly had breath to utter them.”

    Even when passing the prince's empty seat, his expression changed, his legs seemed to give way, and his speech became breathless.

    Demonstrates his profound respect for the ruler's position.

  • “He did not eat rice which had been injured by heat or damp and turned sour, nor fish or flesh which was gone.”

    He refused to eat rice that had spoiled or meat that had gone bad.

    Shows his attention to dietary purity and health.

  • “The stable being burned down, when he was at court, on his return he said, 'Has any man been hurt?' He did not ask about the horses.”

    When his stable caught fire, he asked only if any person was injured, not about the horses.

    Emphasizes his prioritization of human life over property.

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