The Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong)

"The Doctrine of the Mean," also known as "Zhongyong," is an ancient Chinese text that shares insights on achieving balance and moderation in life. Think of it as a guidebook that teaches us how to find the middle ground and live a well-balanced and harmonious life.

The concept of "Zhongyong" is often translated as "the golden mean" or "the middle way." It is a central concept in Confucianism, and it is often used to describe the ideal state of mind or behavior. It teaches that balance is key in everything we do. It's not about going to extremes but finding the middle ground. For example, it's not just about working too hard or being too lazy but finding a balanced approach to work and rest.

"Zhongyong" also shows us the significance of being true to ourselves and staying steady in our thoughts and actions. It talks about sincerity, honesty, and staying true to our values. By being sincere and honest, we can maintain balance within ourselves and in our relationships with others.

Another key idea is the idea of constant learning and self-improvement. The text stimulates us to keep learning and growing throughout our lives. It suggests that by continuously improving ourselves, we can achieve inner harmony and contribute positively to the world around us.

“The Doctrine of the Mean” continues to be influential in Chinese culture today. It promotes the idea that by finding balance within ourselves, staying true to our values, and continuously learning, we can achieve harmony in both our personal lives and in society. It is a reminder of the importance of moderation, balance, and self-cultivation in all aspects of life.

Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Doctrine-Mean-Bilingual-Confucian-Literature/dp/1533618151/

Link to read: https://sacred-texts.com/cfu/conf3.htm