This concept was first raised by Yan Hui(521-481 BC), one of Confucius' (551-479 BC) disciples. He provided a subjective source for benevolence. According to the Confucian School, a man of benevolence is sure to cherish himself and then extend his love to others. In return, he is sure to win love from others. This is reciprocal. Many people advocated this concept since then, though they might not necessarily belong to the Confucian School. The essential idea is that one should not be selfish but should have self-respect and be self-reliant, doing his best to serve the people and the country.
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Confucius asked Yan Hui: “What is the wise man like and what is the man of great virtue like?” Yan Hui replied: “A wise man knows his own ability, and a man of virtue upholds dignity and cherishes himself.” Confucius said: “Such people deserve the name of sagacious men.”
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Only when one cherishes himself will others hold him in esteem. Only when one respects himself will others revere him.
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A scholar knows that he is sure to succeed one day, therefore he is scrupulous in words and deeds and will do nothing harmful to others.