Confucius, one of history’s most influential philosophers, is often remembered for his teachings on morality, ethics, and governance. However, his life was marked by personal hardship and political exile, a tumultuous journey that shaped his worldview profoundly. At the age of sixty, Confucius reached a significant philosophical milestone known as “er shun” or “hearing with ease.” This article explores the historical context of Confucius’s travels, the challenges he faced, the cultural implications of his experiences, and the enduring legacy of his mature wisdom.

The Political Landscape of Confucius’s Time

To understand Confucius’s journey, it is essential to grasp the political fragmentation of China during the late Spring and Autumn period . The once unified Zhou Dynasty was in decline, and regional lords wielded power in their own states, often engaging in rivalries, intrigue, and shifting alliances. This era was characterized by instability, with many states ruled by ambitious or capricious leaders.

Confucius was born in the state of Lu, a minor but culturally significant principality. His early political career saw him serve as a minister and advisor, where he sought to implement his ideals of benevolent rule and moral governance. However, his vision often clashed with the political realities and personalities of the time.

Conflict with Wei Linggong and the Scandal Involving Nan Zi

One of the most pivotal episodes in Confucius’s life was his strained relationship with the ruler of the state of Wei, known as Wei Linggong. After leaving Lu, Confucius sought refuge and opportunities in various states, including Wei. Unfortunately, his tenure there was short-lived and fraught with difficulty.

A notable challenge was a scandal involving Nan Zi, the consort of Wei Linggong. While details remain scarce, the rumors and political intrigue surrounding this episode damaged Confucius’s standing at court. Combined with ideological differences with the ruler himself, Confucius’s position became untenable, forcing him to leave Wei.

A Life of Exile: The Wanderings Through Seven States

Following his departure from Wei, Confucius embarked on a grueling journey through seven different states, including Cao, Zheng, Chen, and others. His travels were driven by a relentless pursuit of a political environment where his ideals could take root.

This period was marked by hardship. Confucius faced near starvation, constant threats to his life, and repeated disappointments. Despite these adversities, his spirit remained unbroken. His commitment to the moral and political reform of the age sustained him through years of exile.

During this time, Confucius famously reflected on the nature of his predicament, noting that the failure was not due to particular lands but rather the people who ruled them. His concept of “avoiding the world” or “avoiding people” became central: he would leave places where rulers’ words or attitudes were unkind or unjust. This “avoiding” was not a retreat from the world itself but a strategic withdrawal from corrupt or hostile environments.

The Meaning of “Avoiding People” and Its Significance

Confucius’s repeated departures from various states stemmed from what he described as “avoiding the world,” “avoiding places,” “avoiding faces,” and “avoiding words.” These phrases encapsulate his response to political and personal rejection:

– Avoiding the world (bi shi): The highest form of withdrawal, representing a refusal to engage with the entire corrupt system.
– Avoiding places (bi di): Leaving specific states or regions where conditions were unfavorable.
– Avoiding faces : Responding to the hostile or disdainful attitudes of rulers and officials.
– Avoiding words (bi yan): Rejecting harmful or dismissive speech from those in power.

Confucius consistently practiced avoiding places, faces, and words but never “avoided the world” completely. This distinction highlights the core difference between Confucianism and Daoism. While Daoists often sought complete detachment from worldly affairs, Confucius remained engaged, believing that moral reform within society was essential. This commitment to active participation and moral responsibility is a hallmark of Confucian philosophy.

Confucius’s Philosophical Maturation: The Age of Sixty and “Hearing with Ease”

At the age of fifty, Confucius famously proclaimed that he “knew the Mandate of Heaven,” signaling a deep understanding of his place and purpose. Ten years later, while in the state of Chen, he reached another profound stage of personal development—”er shun,” or “hearing with ease.”

So, what does “hearing with ease” mean? It symbolizes a state of emotional and intellectual maturity in which one can hear all kinds of speech—praise, criticism, gossip, or slander—without agitation or disturbance. Over decades of traveling and facing hostility, Confucius learned to listen without resentment or anger, embracing the full spectrum of human judgment with equanimity.

This philosophical milestone is more than mere tolerance; it is a refined capacity to understand that human opinions are often flawed, biased, or incomplete. It involves accepting unfounded criticism and unexpected compliments alike as part of life’s natural ebb and flow.

Embracing Criticism and Praise: Confucius’s Response to Public Opinion

Confucius’s ability to withstand harsh words and slanders without anger was revolutionary in its time and remains instructive today. He recognized that life inevitably involves “unexpected praise” and “perfection-seeking blame,” as later articulated by the philosopher Mencius. People might praise without reason or criticize with excessive harshness, but neither should disturb the wise person.

This perspective allowed Confucius to maintain his composure and focus on his principles, regardless of external validation or rejection. His “hearing with ease” was a form of inner peace born from years of trial and resilience.

The Cultural Impact of Confucius’s Perseverance

Confucius’s life story has resonated across centuries, becoming a core component of East Asian cultural identity. His willingness to endure political exile and personal hardship rather than abandon his principles exemplifies the Confucian ideal of the scholar-official committed to moral integrity.

The concept of “er shun” has influenced generations, encouraging individuals to cultivate patience, tolerance, and humility. It underscores the importance of emotional resilience, especially for those engaged in public service or leadership.

Legacy: Confucius’s Enduring Influence on Chinese Philosophy and Governance

Confucius’s journey through exile and his philosophical evolution at sixty have shaped the trajectory of Chinese thought profoundly. His insistence on engaging with the world, despite its flaws, established Confucianism as a practical moral philosophy rather than escapist idealism.

The ideal of “hearing with ease” continues to inspire leaders and thinkers worldwide to listen openly and respond wisely to criticism and praise. Confucius’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and moral conviction in the face of adversity.

Conclusion: A Life of Trials, Wisdom, and Unwavering Commitment

Confucius’s exile and travels through multiple states reveal a man deeply committed to his ideals yet painfully aware of political realities. His ability to “avoid people” without “avoiding the world” marks the distinctiveness of his philosophy, which advocates active engagement to bring about moral reform.

Reaching the stage of “hearing with ease” at sixty encapsulated Confucius’s transformation from a passionate reformer to a sage who embraced the complexities of human nature with calm understanding. His life and teachings remain a beacon for those seeking to navigate the challenges of governance, ethics, and human relationships with grace and wisdom.