Self-Reflection Through Zengzi's Three Examinations
The Wisdom of Zengzi: Historical Context Zengzi (曾子), also known as Zeng Shen, was one of Confucius's most distinguished disciples, renowned for his filial piety and moral integrity. Living during China's Spring and Autumn period (771-476 BCE), he became an influential transmitter of Confucian thought. Zengzi's teaching on self-examination represents a cornerstone of Confucian ethical practice. The practice of "三省吾身" appears in the Lunyu (Analects), a collection of Confucius's sayings compiled by his followers. This particular teaching emphasizes introspection as a pathway to self-improvement and moral development. Rather than focusing on external judgments, Zengzi turned his critical gaze inward, establishing a pattern that would influence East Asian moral philosophy for millennia. First Reflection: Loyalty in Service to Others Original Text "爲人謀而不忠乎?" (Wei ren mou er bu zhong hu?) Core Question "When transacting business for others, have I ...