공자의 삶에서 행복의 의미와 역할

Abstract

Through the Lunyu論語, we can see how Confucius experiences satisfaction and comfort when faced with certain events or situations. The notions of ren人, xue學, and yue樂 are related to this kind of emotional state in <Lunyu>. Moreover, observed through humanities and arts, once learned and practiced, it leads to emotional fulfillment and immersion, specially when shared with trustful individuals. If we can admit satisfaction through one’s achievement is related to the concept of happiness, it becomes essential to understand what he has longed for throughout their lives. This understanding naturally connects to what is one’s ultimate purpose of his life. The most important virtue, permeating Confucius’s life, is “Ren仁”, and the ultimate purpose is to become a “Qunzi君子” who is internalizing “Ren” for his life, and to create a world incarnating “Ren”. This was Confucius’s ideology, exemplified specific attitudes and methods through life, and gained greater universality through various practices. The direction of life is not directly connected to happiness. Develving into Confucius’s life as a whole, the process of salvation was not only a sustaining force but also a constant source of frustration, pain, and sadness. The crucial point is that, however, this was the purpose and direction of Confucius’s life that he never compromised. This purpose and direction are a constant, challenging process in harsh reality. Nevertheless, this process can be interpreted as a prerequisite for happiness, because happiness can never be achieved by turning away from or giving up on this harsh process. The experience of having one’s moral behavior align with one’s happinese, the process of seeking “Ren”, can be considered the highest level in terms of human existence. In perspective of this discussion, it can be concluded that happiness is deeply connected to a worthwhile life purpose.