Ancient Tales of Wisdom

Teachings for enlightening children. Part III

'Student Rules' the edited version of 'Teachings for Enlightening Children.' (zhengjian.org)

Hello and welcome, my name is Grace Mann, today’s Ancient Tale of Wisdom, is the final of the 3 part series – ‘Teachings for Enlightening Children.‘

Teachings for Enlightening Children (Xun Meng Wen) was one of the Chinese classic texts for educating children on observing etiquette and rules and cultivating benevolence in society. It was originally written by an intellectual named Mr. Li Yuxiu (1662¡V1722) during Emperor Kang Xi’s (1654-1722) reign in the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912). It was then edited by Mr. Jia Cunren in the Qing Dynasty, who changed the title to Student Rules. Arranged in simple three-character verses, these teachings detail the rules in a variety of settings and is the second most influential text for children;  with the most influential  being Three Character Classic (1)) Teachings for Enlightening Children, which teaches filial piety, respect, cautiousness, honesty, forbearance, and tolerance, etc.

China was once called “The Nation of Etiquette and Morality.” Though, during the great Cultural Revolution, all spiritual and moral teachings were trampled and desecrated, thus, the beautiful Chinese traditional etiquette and morality has suffered tremendously. In today’s China, adults have little knowledge of the morals that even little children knew in ancient times.

Hence, the author of this three part series has tentatively interpreted selected viewpoints of Teachings for Enlightening Children for the benefit of the public.

And now:  Part (III), of this three-part series Teachings for Enlightening Children.

For all creatures throughout the world,
We should cherish with a kindred regard.
The sky covers us all equally,
And the earth supports all humankind.
People whose conduct is good,
Are sure to be of good character.
Righteous conduct brings respect;
Good looks cannot bring people honor.
People with outstanding talents,
Rightfully earn their prestige.
Achievements are what we admire;
Braggarts don’t gain our respect.
Don’t use to your selfish advantage,
Your own special talents and skills.
The abilities others have,
Should never be envied or scorned.

Although you may know someone’s faults,
It is disrespectful to talk about them.
The personal business of others,
Should not be the subject of conversation.
Praising the virtues of others,
Is itself a virtuous deed .
When others hear of those good points,
They will want to emulate them.
Talking of others’ shortcomings,
In itself is a karmic wrongdoing.
When slander goes far beyond reason,
Retribution will surely result.
We develop our virtue together,
By urging each other towards goodness.
If we do not control our bad habits,
Then we will all have all strayed from our path.

As to things that you give and you get,
Their value will differ:
You should be clear.
Make sure the amount that you give,
Is greater than what you receive.
Don’t simply pass on to others,
A job you yourself wouldn’t do.
First ask, “Would I be willing?”
If not, let the matter stop there.
Kindness must be returned,
Let enmity just fade away.
Grudges are best forgotten,
With kindness increasing each day.

Thank you for joining us today, it has been my privilege to bring you the final of this three-part series, ‘Teachings for Enlightening Children,’ stay tuned for more Great Ancient Tales of Wisdom.

Story Source: Clearwisdom.net
(with slight modifications)

Chinese Version found at: http://minghui.org/mh/articles//8/26/136197.html

Bookmark It

Hide Sites