Zong Sheng Zengzi

Zengzi (505–432 BCE), whose given name was Zeng Shen and courtesy name Ziyu, was a native of Nanwu City in the State of Lu during the late Spring and Autumn period (modern-day Pingyi, Shandong Province). He was one of the key figures of Confucianism. At the age of sixteen, Zengzi became a disciple of Confucius, diligently studying and mastering his teachings. He actively promoted Confucian principles and disseminated Confucian thought.

Confucius' grandson, Kong Ji (also known as Zisi), studied under Zengzi and later passed on his teachings to Mencius. Thus, Zengzi played a crucial role in bridging the philosophies of Confucius and the Si-Meng School, contributing to the development and refinement of Confucian thought.

Zengzi participated in the compilation of The Analects, authored The Great Learning, and wrote The Classic of Filial Piety and Ten Chapters of Zengzi. As a principal inheritor and disseminator of Confucian doctrine, Zengzi occupies a pivotal position in Confucian culture, connecting past traditions with future advancements.

Renowned for his contributions, Zengzi is regarded alongside Mencius, Yan Hui (Yanzi) and Zisi as one of the Four Sages enshrined in the Temple of Confucius. He is honored with the title Zong Sheng (Ancestral Sage).