The traditional ethics of China pay special attention to the positive guidance and norms that family education provides for future generations. As such, the concept of family instructions has been part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. These family instructions are particularly distinctive in the traditional culture of the Chinese nation. A prime example of this is the Pei family, an eminent and influential clan from Wenxi County, Yuncheng, Shanxi.
The noteworthy Pei family
According to historical records, the Pei family’s forebears were granted land in this region, eventually growing into three branches. From ancient times to the present, this illustrious family, with over 2,000 years of history, has produced more than 3,000 officials, including 59 prime ministers and 59 great generals. According to historical records, over 600 members have been recognized in official histories, with thousands more leaving their marks on later generations. Remarkably, among these 3,000-plus officials, none were known for corruption, a testament to the upright and noble family values.
The extraordinary role of the Pei family’s instructions
The enduring vitality of the Pei family and their ability to produce outstanding individuals generation after generation can be attributed to their strict and solemn “Pei Family Instructions” — a set of 12 guidelines. Regardless of societal changes or dynastic transitions, members of the Pei family have always abided by these ancestral instructions, each demonstrating humility, respect for laws and traditions, and a commitment to virtuous conduct.
The 12 family instructions
The Pei family instructions have endured throughout the years, embodying the most classic, brilliant, and inheritable cultural essence. These instructions include respect for ancestors, filial piety, love among siblings, harmony among relatives, neighborliness, integrity, thriftiness at home, strict education of descendants, moral education through reading, sincerity towards relatives and friends, careful speech, and upholding public morality.
The 10 family admonitions
In addition to the instructions, the Pei family has 10 admonitions, including do not disrespect elders, do not disgrace ancestors, do not favor boys over girls, do not gamble, do not steal, do not engage in lustful or adulterous behaviors, do not consume tobacco or drugs, do not become drunk or quarrelsome, do not forget your roots while embracing foreign cultures, and do not join gangs.
Core principles
The core content of these instructions and admonitions reflects the “cultivation of personal character, management of the household, governance of the country, and bringing peace to the world” — a set of values consistently emphasized by the ancients. The main requirement for the descendants of the Pei family is to uphold the virtues of respecting and promoting morality, frugality in household management, prioritizing loyalty and righteousness, upholding public duty with integrity, and serving the country loyally.
The consequences of disobedience
There is a clear rule in the Pei family: If a family member behaves recklessly and becomes a corrupt official, they are not allowed to be buried in the family cemetery after their death. This perhaps explains why, among the over 3000 officials produced by the Pei family, there have been no corrupt officials.
The lasting influence of the Pei family’s instructions
The 12 family instructions of the Pei family have truly played a powerful role in cautioning and alerting their members and embodying the profound cultural essence of the entire family. These enduring teachings continue to impact the generations of the Pei family, ensuring their adherence to traditional Chinese ethics and the cultivation of outstanding descendants.
Translated by Audrey Wang
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