In Confucian thought, which virtue emphasizes love and respect for one's parents and ancestors?

In Confucian thought, the virtue that emphasizes love and respect for one's parents and ancestors is known as filial piety. This concept is foundational in Confucianism, where it represents the deep respect, devotion, and responsibility that individuals owe to their family members, especially elders. Filial piety extends beyond mere obedience; it fosters the idea of honoring one’s parents throughout their lives and even after their death through continued remembrance and adherence to their values.

This emphasis on family and ancestral reverence reflects the importance of maintaining familial harmony and societal stability, which are core principles in Confucian philosophy. By prioritizing the family unit, filial piety cultivates a strong sense of duty and loyalty, ensuring that familial bonds remain strong across generations.

While Ren refers to humaneness and benevolence, Xiao specifically denotes the practice of filial piety, making it synonymous within the context of honoring one's family. Li encompasses broader social etiquette and rituals but does not focus exclusively on the family aspect. Therefore, filial piety encapsulates the virtue of love and respect for one's parents and ancestors perfectly within Confucian thought.