Filial Piety

Xiao, the Chinese word for filial piety, is one of the foundations of Confucianism and was also embraced by Taoism. It delineates the attitude towards and practice of obedience, devotion, and care toward one’s parents and elder family members. In practicing piety, one puts the needs of parents and family elders over self, spouse, and children, deferring to parents’ judgment, and observing this reverence through prescribed behavioral acts of respect. Emphasizing rites and ritual behaviors is believed to strengthen family harmony, sociopolitical stability, and the power of the governing hierarchy. Ancestor worship and propitiating ancestor images on home altars with offerings and prayers are manifestations of filial piety. Belief in filial piety was later adopted in Japan.

  • Sale! Antique Taoist Official with the Elixir of Life #16312BOK

    Antique Taoist Official with the Elixir of Life #16312BOK

    Original price was: $450.00.Current price is: $395.00.
    Ht: 9″ W: 5″ D: 3.5″ | FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    During the Ming and Qing dynasties small images of Taoist officials and priests were often shown holding a cup of the elixir of life to place on home altars along with ancestor figures, house gods and other religious images to bring blessings (fu) to the household. By commissioning  figures like this artful carving, families honored their ancestors and met their filial piety duties. Mounted on an acrylic stand.

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