Zengzi

Zeng Shen (505–435 BC), better known as Zengzi (Master Zeng), was a Chinese philosopher and a disciple of Confucius. He played a crucial role in transmitting Confucian traditions by teaching Zisi, the grandson of Confucius, who in turn taught Mencius. This lineage is considered the orthodox line of Confucianism. Zengzi is highly revered and counted among the Four Sages of Confucianism, alongside Confucius, Mencius, and Yan Hui. He was 46 years younger than Confucius and hailed from South Wu City in the State of Lu, being the son of Zeng Dian, an early disciple of Confucius. Sent by his father to study under Confucius at the age of sixteen, Zengzi became one of Confucius' most distinguished students, often considered second only to Yan Hui. His contemporaries, such as Duanmu Ci, praised his comprehensive studies, respectful demeanor, solid virtue, credible speech, and dignified presence. Zengzi was particularly renowned for his filial piety. The text mentions that after his parents' deaths, he would weep uncontrollably when reading mourning rites, as it reminded him of them. He was a prolific writer and is credited with composing ten books compiled in the 'Rites of the Elder Dai.' He is also associated with the composition or editing of the 'Classic of Filial Piety' under Confucius' guidance and the transmission of the 'Great Learning.' His legacy was further cemented by his own school and his significant contributions to Confucian thought, particularly in the area of filial piety, which became a cornerstone of Confucian ethics.