The Classical Guide
What is Di Zi Gui?
Di Zi Gui (Guidelines for Being a Good Person) is an ancient Chinese text based on the teachings of Confucius. It contains exactly 165 filial behaviors, actions, and attitudes designed to cultivate profound character.
"Memorized by children when they were young, the book provided guidelines that would enable them to learn how to become good children and students and, later, good parents, friends, and citizens... To the casual reader, the maxims can appear to be straightforward and easy to carry out. But when trying to put them into practice, one discovers that they are anything but easy, or simple. Neither are they just for children."
— Venerable Wuling
While it was originally written as a primer for children, its wisdom transcends age. These fundamental principles of behavior are not something we simply outgrow; they are timeless virtues that can guide us the rest of our lives.
The Path of Expansion
Di Zi Gui teaches that true character starts from within and expands outward. We must first learn to honor our parents at home before we can truly love and respect all beings in the world.
1. The Self
Building the foundation of character and mindfulness.
2. The Home
Honoring parents and cultivating harmony within the family.
3. Society
Navigating relationships with integrity, trust, and respect.
4. The World
Extending universal compassion and lifelong learning to all.
The 8 Chapters
The 165 actions and attitudes are beautifully organized into 8 chapters. We have transformed these chapters into a stunning 8-deck flashcard collection.
The Foundation of Character
The core preamble outlining the entire framework of Di Zi Gui, starting with filial piety and ending with the pursuit of knowledge.
The Art of Honoring Parents
Deep, practical guidance on how to speak to, care for, and honor our parents through everyday actions and profound respect.
Navigating Relationships
Extending the harmony of the home to siblings and elders, teaching us how to yield, respect hierarchy, and foster family peace.
Mindfulness & Daily Life
Instructions on personal habits, hygiene, manners, and routines that build personal discipline and a grounded presence.
Integrity and Trustworthiness
Guiding our speech and promises. Learning to speak truthfully, avoid gossip, and become a person others can implicitly trust.
Universal Compassion
The highest evolution of character: treating all human beings, regardless of status, with equal love, empathy, and boundless compassion.
Seeking Wisdom & Virtue
The importance of seeking out mentors, surrounding oneself with virtuous people, and humbly accepting correction.
Lifelong Learning
Once character and virtue are established, we direct our energy toward studying, reading, and cultivating our minds.
Explore the full 165-Card Collection
Bring these timeless principles into your home. Each card features the original Chinese text, pinyin, and our modern English translation.
View the 8-Deck Bundle