Dizi Gui (弟子规) (Standards for Being a Good Student and Child) is an ancient Chinese text for children that teaches moral values and etiquette. It was written during the Qing Dynasty during the reign of Emperor Kangxi (康熙帝) (1661-1722) by Li Yuxiu.
Beneath the conservative, “old-school” verbose of this ancient classic, one can still find gems of wisdom that remain surprisingly relevant to our modern society. A new lesson is covered in each issue.
The fifth chapter of Dizi Gui is titled “Love All Equally”, and it is devoted to teaching us how to love all beings, regardless of their background.
Perhaps you’re thinking that only saints are capable of having such magnanimity and boundless compassion—how can ordinary people attain such an unachievable goal?
But what Dizi Gui seeks to illustrate is that it only takes small and simple changes to one’s attitude to love others equally, with impartiality and selflessness.
Firstly, be broad-minded instead of jealous when comparing abilities. “If you have an ability, don’t be selfish with it. If other people have an ability, don’t lightly denigrate them.”
Secondly, be impartial in your attitude and treatment towards others. “Don’t curry favour the rich or look down on the poor. Don’t despise old things or friends; don’t find pleasure solely in new fads or acquaintances.”
In essence, the first step to loving all equally is being impartial and respectful of others, which can be reflected in our day-to-day actions and choices. The following story from Zizhi Tongjian (资治通鉴), an ancient Chinese historical record illustrating principles of governance, is a good example.
Li Ke Recommends the Next Prime Minister
During China’s Warring States Period, the Marquess Wen (魏文侯)—ruler of the State of Wei—called his foreign delegate Li Ke (李恪) to his presence.
It only takes small and simple changes to one’s attitude to love others equally, with impartiality and selflessness.
“I plan to appoint a prime minister as my right-hand man,” the Marquess said, “and I am currently deciding between Wei Chengzi and Di Huang. Who do you think is more suitable for the position?”
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