Zilu Accepts Teaching
Zilu was a man of resolute courage, unwavering integrity, and remarkable talent. According to legend, when Confucius traveled east to the region of Bian, he encountered Zilu clad in armour, standing with a sword in hand. Confucius approached him and asked, “What is the purpose of this attire?” Zilu replied that ancient gentlemen always carried swords and upheld martial virtues.
Confucius, however, consistently opposed reliance on force and advocated benevolent governance and moral education, believing that virtue alone could transform the world. Thus, he disapproved of Zilu’s martial pursuits. He said to Zilu, “The true gentleman of ancient times took loyalty and righteousness as his life’s pursuit, using kindness as his shield. Without ever leaving his humble abode, he could understand affairs a thousand miles away. If he encountered wicked men, he would influence them with sincerity and trust; if faced with violence or chaos, he would pacify them with benevolence and righteousness. Why, then, would he need to wield a sword and resort to force?”
Deeply moved, Zilu exclaimed, “Ah! Only today have I heard such wisdom! From now on, I shall earnestly and reverently seek your guidance!”
Another account from The Garden of Sayings records Zilu’s first meeting with Confucius. Confucius asked him, “What are your interests?” Zilu replied, “I am fond of long swords.” Confucius said, “That is not what I meant. With your natural gifts, if you further apply yourself to learning, how could anyone surpass you?” Skeptical, Zilu questioned whether study truly brought improvement: “In the southern mountains, there grows bamboo that is naturally straight. When sharpened, its arrows can pierce the thick hide of a rhinoceros. If this is so, why must one go through the process of learning?”
Seizing the opportunity to instruct, Confucius replied, “But if you add feathers to the arrow’s end and sharpen its tip, will it not fly deeper and farther?” Convinced, Zilu bowed and said, “I am profoundly enlightened.”
This illustrates that while innate talent is important, diligent study and effort are equally vital. Only by combining the two can a scholar’s knowledge and cultivation reach greater heights. Zilu remained a devoted disciple of Confucius for life, their bond deep and enduring, and he became one of Confucius’ most esteemed students.
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