Confucius on Mourning: Why Three Years?

In ancient China, it was tradition for children to observe a three-year mourning period for their parents. This meant no parties, no official duties, just deep grief. But Zai Yu, a student, thought it was too long and suggested just one year. He worried that neglecting music and ceremonies for three years would ruin them.

Confucius, however, disagreed. He saw three years as a necessary tribute to the parents' sacrifices. They had carried and cared for their children for those first three years, making them capable of walking. Therefore, three years was a minimum way to express gratitude.

The mourning period wasn't just about sadness, though. Confucius understood that it was a way to guide those overcome with grief back to life. It also encouraged the unfeeling to learn appreciation for their parents.