1. FILIAL PIETY
Filial piety is the most important value in traditional Chinese culture. It is one of the “right relationships” discussed by Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher.

2. Filial piety was taught by the Chinese philosopher Confucius ( B.C.) He taught that if key relationships were “right,” society would run well.
Ruler Citizen
Father Son
Husband Wife
Older Brother Younger Brother
Older Friend Younger Friend

3. What is filial piety?
Filial piety is the idea of putting your family’s needs & interests above your own wishes.

4. People show filial piety in several ways:
total loyalty to family
respecting elders and putting their needs first
Mulan is a classic example of filial piety. She sacrificed her own safety to protect her father.

5. People show filial piety in several ways:
total loyalty to family
respecting elders and putting their needs first
deep respect for the family’s past (traditionally
including ancestor worship)

6. Quingming (grave-cleaning day)

7. Ancestor shrine near Beijing, China

8. Ancestor shrines inside Chinese homes

9. Filial piety was a law in ancient China.
In modern China, filial piety is a strong belief – but not a law.
It is a belief that children are responsible to their parents – to respect them, obey them, take care of them as they grow old, advise them, and of course to love them. The relationship with parents must be centered on love and respect.

10. Your assignment:
 Plan three days of things you can do at home – one per day – to express filial piety in your home. Keep it simple! Do a chore without being asked. Make a snack for a household adult. Use your imagination!
 Explain to your family the meaning of “filial piety” so they won’t think you’re temporarily crazy!
 Fill out the information on your paper and have it SIGNED. I will check these on Monday, April 27.