Study into the filial piety from a perspective of 『The Book of Rites』

Abstract

This study was to establish a desirable filial piety culture in the modern times by examining what is written about the filial piety of respect and self-establishment, and after parents death in the Book of Rites. Korean traditional education derived from the filial piety. The filial piety starting from the relationship between parents and children makes a foundation of all morals and a starting point of personality education as a basic human behaviour. This will create a basis of family ethics, grow into community ethics, and cultivate humanity. Firstly, the filial piety of respect starts from lowering yourself in front of parents and respecting them. Secondly, the filial piety of self-establishment suggests that an upright attitude of mind and conduct is essential and central to every matter. Lastly, through the filial piety after parents death which includes ancestral rituals and funeral rites, a sincere filial affection and a respectful attitude of mind can be bred up. The meanings of contemporary filial piety are as follows. Firstly, filial piety originates from love and gratitude. Secondly, a respect of personality should underlie it. Thirdly, an idea of equality should be emphasized. Fourthly, filial piety corrects the establishment of human values. The first thing required for an upright establishment of filial piety culture is that a filial piety education should begin in a family. A need to strengthen a family bond is raised due to the marginalized humanity and the changed family forms and functions caused by materialism of a modern society. The next thing is a call for a balanced change in the filial piety culture. The change and application needs to be made appropriate to the current society which highlights autonomy. Thirdly, communal spirits should be promoted because it will help overcome the challenges of modern civilization and present a correct direction for the future. In conclusion, a filial piety culture which continues Korean tradition is an excellent culture based on gratitude and appreciation, service and devotion, and respect and consideration. The contemporary filial piety culture should be reasonable, voluntary and self-motivated. Furthermore, an in-depth academic introspection needs to be accomplished in order to combine a filial piety culture to the future society.