The practical meaning of why not eat minced meat is: not having a comprehensive understanding of things, and it also means that people who have not personally experienced it make unreasonable comments or suggestions on other people's situations or behaviors.

This sentence comes from Chapter 19 of "The Analects of Confucius: Weizheng Chapter". The original text is: "The Master said: 'Why not eat minced meat?'". This sentence is a rhetorical question raised by Confucius to his disciples. Literally, it asks why you don't eat minced meat, but in fact this sentence contains a deep philosophical thought.

In ancient society, minced meat was a precious food that represented wealth and enjoyment. The era in which Confucius lived was a period of turmoil and ethical disorder, with social moral concepts collapsing. Confucius raised an important moral question in the concise form of this sentence.

We can interpret from Confucius’ thoughts that this sentence means rejecting the excessive pursuit of pleasure and material wealth, as well as the pursuit of short-term personal interests. Confucius believed that a person with moral cultivation should adhere to justice, endure difficulties and setbacks, rather than pursue temporary enjoyment and self-interest.

The idea conveyed by this sentence emphasizes the importance of pursuing morality, ethics and noble qualities. It allows people to reflect on their actions and choices, and reminds us to keep a clear mind and follow correct moral principles when facing the temptation of interests.

In general, "Why not eat minced meat" is a famous saying by Confucius, which emphasizes the importance of pursuing morality and noble qualities, and rejecting the excessive pursuit of pleasure and personal interests. It is an important point in Confucius' ethical thought and has had a profound impact on later generations.

Why not eat minced meat? Origin of minced meat

1. Minced meat is a rich delicacy, which represents enjoyment and wealth. By mentioning minced meat, Confucius hinted at the temptation to enjoy material things and the corruption and moral failings that could arise behind them. He hopes that leaders can restrain personal desires, practice morality, and focus on justice and long-term interests, rather than being driven by short-term personal gain.

2. Therefore, "Why not eat minced meat" can be understood as a reflection, a warning and criticism against the excessive pursuit of pleasure and personal interests. It emphasizes the importance of morality, ethics and responsibility and is an important point in Confucius' ethical thought. This sentence has a profound influence in traditional Chinese culture and provides people with valuable thoughts on moral choices and leader responsibilities.