Observing Vessels to Understand the Tao
According to Xunzi·You Zuo, Confucius once visited the Temple of Duke Huan of Lu with his disciples, where they encountered a vessel called the “Qi Vessel.” This vessel, used for holding wine during sacrifices, had a peculiar shape and appeared as though it could tip over at any moment.
Unfamiliar with the Qi Vessel, Confucius asked the temple keeper about it. The keeper replied, “This vessel is placed on the right side of a ruler’s seat (the ancients often placed cherished objects on their right) to remind oneself to maintain upright and impartial conduct.”
This explanation sparked a memory in Confucius, who said, “I have heard of this vessel: when empty, it tilts; when filled to just the right level, it stands upright; but when full, it overturns.”
To demonstrate this to his disciples, Confucius had them pour water into the vessel. Sure enough, it behaved exactly as he had described. Confucius sighed and lamented, “Alas! Is there anything in this world that remains upright once full?”
Zilu, however, was not satisfied and pressed further, “Is there any way to remain full without overturning?” Confucius replied, “He who is wise and enlightened guards himself with an appearance of foolishness; he who has achieved great merits guards himself with an attitude of deference; he who is brave and powerful guards himself with a demeanour of caution; and he who is wealthy and prosperous guards himself with an attitude of humility.” In essence, one must refrain from flaunting their intelligence, avoid greed despite their achievements, exercise restraint despite their courage, and remain modest despite their wealth. Only then can one maintain a state of fullness without tipping over. This dialogue highlights a fundamental truth: everything must be kept within proper limits, as exceeding them leads to deterioration. As stated in the Book of Changes·Qian Gua: “The dragon soars to the heights, only to regret it; fullness cannot last.” This means that those in high positions must not become overly proud, lest they face failure and regret.
As the saying goes, “The moon wanes after it is full; water overflows when it fills the vessel.” The decline after reaching a peak is an inevitable trend in the development of things, beyond human control. Therefore, we must handle matters with balance and moderation, maintaining a harmonious and impartial approach, following the natural course of things without forcing outcomes. Otherwise, as Confucius said, “Going beyond the limit is as bad as falling short.” Both excess and deficiency are inappropriate. This aligns with Confucius’s consistent advocacy of the “Doctrine of the Mean.”
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