How to Read “怪力乱神を語らず”
Kairyoku ranshin wo katarazu
Meaning of “怪力乱神を語らず”
“Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits” means not discussing mysterious phenomena, supernatural matters, extraordinary feats beyond common sense, or topics that might disturb society.
This is not simply a passive stance of avoiding superstitions or mystical matters. Rather, it represents a positive educational policy that prioritizes fundamental and practical knowledge and morals in educational and guidance settings, valuing learning rooted in reality.
This proverb is mainly used when educators or leaders express their educational philosophy. For example, when disciples or students tend to focus on unrealistic topics or unfounded rumors out of curiosity, leaders use it to mean “Rather than such things, first learn basic scholarship and the way of being human.”
Even today, this expression is understood as an attitude that emphasizes the fundamentals of learning and a way of thinking that values realistic judgment without being misled by unfounded stories. It is particularly used in educational settings and research fields as words expressing an attitude that values reliable knowledge and logical thinking.
Origin and Etymology
This proverb originates from the ancient Chinese classic “The Analects.” In “The Analects,” which records Confucius’s words and deeds, there is a passage in the “Shu Er” chapter that reads “The Master did not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits,” which was transmitted to Japan and became established as “Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits.”
“Strange powers, disorder, and spirits” consists of four elements, each with different meanings. “Strange” refers to mysterious and inexplicable phenomena, “powers” refers to extraordinary feats or violent acts beyond human common sense, “disorder” refers to chaos or rebellion that disturbs social order, and “spirits” refers to mystical and supernatural matters.
Confucius did not speak of these things not because he denied superstition or mysticism. Rather, as an educator facing his disciples, he believed it was important to first acquire basic morals, ethics, and practical wisdom as human beings. Instead of being captivated by supernatural matters or phenomena difficult to explain, he emphasized practical learning such as human relationships in daily life and how to behave in society.
This way of thinking was transmitted to Japan and has been passed down as a teaching that “one should first learn from the basics, from realistic things” in academic and educational settings.
Usage Examples
- The teacher does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits, always teaching only practical knowledge
- He has a policy of not speaking of strange powers, disorder, and spirits, and apparently never watches occult programs
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the concept of “Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits” has taken on new meaning. In our information society, social media and the internet are flooded with fake news, unfounded conspiracy theories, and sensational urban legends. In such circumstances, this ancient proverb is being reevaluated as words teaching the importance of “information literacy.”
With the development of science and technology, many phenomena that were once considered “strange powers, disorder, and spirits” have been scientifically explained. However, at the same time, new technologies that are difficult for ordinary people to understand, such as AI technology and biotechnology, are emerging one after another, creating information that could be called “modern versions of strange powers, disorder, and spirits.”
In educational settings, this way of thinking is linked to the development of critical thinking skills. Students are required to first acquire basic knowledge and logical thinking abilities, and then develop the ability to appropriately judge information.
On the other hand, since diversity and creativity are also valued in modern times, there have been changes in the interpretation of “Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits.” Rather than complete exclusion, it is often understood as a gradual approach of “first solidifying the basics.” The importance of having a solid foundation to support imagination and curiosity while cherishing them is being emphasized.
When AI Hears This
Confucius’s principle of “not speaking” contains insights that remarkably align with what modern educational psychology calls “cognitive load theory.” While he refrained from discussing supernatural topics with his disciples, this wasn’t denial but rather a sophisticated educational strategy designed to protect learners’ cognitive processes from overload.
Contemporary neuroscience research shows that human working memory has limited capacity for simultaneous information processing, able to retain only about 7±2 pieces of information at once. Confucius intuitively grasped this principle 2,500 years ago, deliberately narrowing his teachings to knowledge within his disciples’ reliable comprehension range. He likely recognized that uncertain and complex topics like supernatural phenomena would become “cognitive noise,” interfering with fundamental learning in ethics and politics.
This educational silence proves remarkably effective as a strategy for dealing with today’s information flood on social media. We’re constantly bombarded by unverified information, speculation, and conspiracy theories—the modern equivalent of supernatural phenomena. Confucius’s approach demonstrates the importance of intellectual restraint: choosing not to speak about or spread such information.
True wisdom lies not in what we choose to say, but in our power to choose what not to say. Confucius’s silence was a calculated educational technique designed to protect his disciples’ cognitive space and help them focus on essential learning.
Lessons for Today
What “Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits” teaches modern people is “the importance of returning to basics” precisely because we live in an age overflowing with information. With new information flying around daily and sensational news attracting attention, we tend to be captivated by novel things.
But isn’t what’s truly important first solidifying our own foundation? Whether in work or human relationships, application and development become possible only when there’s a foundation of basic skills and sincerity.
This proverb doesn’t deny curiosity or creativity at all. Rather, it teaches us to “value order.” Even if we chase only superficial knowledge while neglecting the basics, true growth cannot be expected.
In modern society, the ability to discern the truth of information is becoming increasingly important. The spirit of “Does not speak of strange powers, disorder, and spirits,” as an attitude of not being misled by unfounded information and steadily accumulating reliable knowledge and experience, will make your life richer and more stable. There’s no need to rush—just move forward steadily, one step at a time.
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