中庸
Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong)
Confucianism · bookThe Zhongyong (中庸, Doctrine of the Mean) is a Confucian text preserved as chapter 31 of the Book of Rites and later canonized as one of the Four Books. It explores centrality, harmony, sincerity, and the cultivation of fitting responses rather than compromise or mediocrity.
About the Work
Traditional attribution: this is a received text associated with its named tradition or figure.
Zhōngyōng
Centrality is the great root of the world; harmony is its universal path.
— Zhongyong, Chapter 1 (traditional translation)
What Are the Key Facts About Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong)?
- Tradition: Confucianism
- Chinese: 中庸
- Category: Book
- Definition: The Zhongyong (中庸, Doctrine of the Mean) is a Confucian text preserved as chapter 31 of the Book of Rites and later canonized as one of the Four Books.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong)
What is the Zhongyong?
The Zhongyong ('Doctrine of the Mean') is a Confucian classic attributed to Zisi (grandson of Confucius), later a chapter of the Liji and one of the Four Books. It teaches equilibrium and harmony as the cosmic and ethical center.
What does 'zhongyong' mean?
'Zhong' is centrality/equilibrium; 'yong' is unchanging/ordinary. Together it means the undeviating middle — not a bland compromise but the rectification of the heart that keeps conduct attuned to propriety.
How did Neo-Confucians view the Zhongyong?
Zhu Xi elevated it as a core text for self-cultivation, linking equilibrium (zhong) before feeling arises to the heavenly principle (li) inherent in human nature.
What is the key idea of the Mean?
That the cultivated person maintains cheng (sincerity/wholeness) so that inner equilibrium issues in harmonious, timely action — the union of human nature and the Way.