Xiao

Xiao, or filial piety is all about showing the love and respect you have for your parents, elders and ancestors. In Confucianism, it's what ties social harmony and the family hierarchy together. Historically xiao put a larger duty on sons and men though it's now more broader, also applying to women and daughters.

Meaning

The Chinese character for xiao, 孝, consists out of 耂 (eldery person) and 子 (child). It's symbolization for the bond (and lifelong devotion that one has, from obeying one's parents to caring for them in old age to honoring them after death) that differing generations have with eachother.

Importance

Confucius said that filial piety give structure to society and serves as the root of all teachings, and without it, society collapses along with the structure of the Five Relationships.

Care

Part of xiao is to provide care for your parents. This ranges from food, to shelter and financial support in old age.

Respect

Confucius set the importance of (emotional) respect for your parents. "When your parents are wrong, gently remind them. If they refuse, stay respectful but don’t follow their errors."

Rituals

Offering prayers, food and incense for deceased parents, ancestors and wearing mourning clothing in ancient times. Rituals help manage grief and maintaining order and continuity. Rituals for elders form part of the broader li.

Offspring

Historically, having a son was part of carrying the family legacy and rituals for when you die. It's for lack of a better word less 'important' today but it does influence the pressure for a child and marriage, particularly in eastern Asia.