# XI explained — Analects

> Chapter companion for Analects by Confucius.

## What happens

Confucius defines filial piety by observing a man's will while his father lives and his conduct after his father's death, emphasizing that not altering the father's way for three years marks one as filial.

## Themes in this chapter

### Filial Piety

The chapter directly addresses filial conduct, emphasizing respect and continuity after a father's death.

## Character check-ins

### Confucius

Delivers the teaching on filial piety.

## Key lines

> While a man’s father is alive, look at the bent of his will; when his father is dead, look at his conduct. If for three years he does not alter from the way of his father, he may be called filial.

Observe a person's intentions while his father lives, and his actions after his father dies. If he continues his father's path for three years, he is truly filial.

_Confucius emphasizes the importance of consistency in filial behavior._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/analects_se/chapters/xi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/analects_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/analects_se/chapters