On The Meaning of Ritual
The Book of Rites, also known as the Classic of Ritual. The Way of the former kings consists in exalting ren. One must cleave to what is central in carrying it out. What do I mean by "what is central"? I say: it is ritual and yi (8.99). The Confucian moral order is grounded in ren (仁), yi (義), and ritual (禮, li). Ren is humaneness, empathy, and magnanimous compassion. Yi is righteousness, firmness of will, and principles-based justice. Ren is the duty to care and provide for those in your ch