孔門十哲 The Ten Disciples of Confucius

言偃 YanYan

Yan Yan (521 BC – 452 BC), also known as Yan Ziyou, was a politician and Confucian scholar of the State of Lu during the Spring and Autumn period. He was also one of the students of Confucius. Yan Yan was renowned for his extensive knowledge, versatility, cautious humility, and emphasis on ritual propriety. He was honored as one of the representatives of the Confucian school of thought.

言偃 YanYan

Yan Yan (521 BC – 452 BC), also known as Yan Ziyou, was a politician and Confucian scholar of the State of Lu during the Spring and Autumn period. He was also one of the students of Confucius. Yan Yan was renowned for his extensive knowledge, versatility, cautious humility, and emphasis on ritual propriety. He was honored as one of the representatives of the Confucian school of thought.

Yan Yan played an important role in politics and held positions such as Grand Siko and Sikong in the State of Lu. He was widely respected and admired for his integrity, fairness, and selflessness. He provided numerous practical suggestions for national policies and public affairs, working towards the development of the State of Lu and the well-being of its people.

As a student of Confucius, Yan Yan was deeply influenced by his teachings. He made remarkable contributions to the study and transmission of classical texts, demonstrating a profound understanding of the interpretation and comprehension of Confucian classics. He advocated for the centrality of ritual propriety and emphasized the cultivation of ethical morals and personal character. He promoted the Confucian concept of benevolence and believed that a true gentleman should act with benevolence, pursuing harmonious social relationships based on etiquette.

Yan Yan’s scholarly achievements and exemplary character earned him widespread admiration in later generations. His thoughts and teachings are regarded as significant representations of the Confucian school of thought, exerting a profound influence on the development of traditional Chinese culture and thought. His words and deeds serve as a model for learning among Confucian scholars, and his teachings and wisdom are passed down and cherished, playing a vital role in personal cultivation and the nurturing of social ethics.

Yan Yan is revered as “Yan Jun” by later generations. His doctrines and ideas have had a profound impact on the development of ancient Chinese Confucianism and the traditional Chinese culture, making him one of the ancient sages and philosophers of China. His scholarly contributions and outstanding character hold a significant place in the history of Chinese thought and cultural traditions, providing important insights and references for future scholars.