In Confucian ethics, ren means humaneness or benevolence.
Ren is one of the central virtues in Confucian thought. It describes a humane concern for other people and the moral disposition to treat them with compassion, respect, and consideration. Confucian texts connect ren with the cultivation of character rather than with a single isolated action.
The Analects presents Confucius discussing ren in different contexts, including respectful conduct, responsibility toward others, and the principle often summarized as not imposing on others what one would not want for oneself. The virtue is developed through learning, reflection, relationships, and proper conduct.
Ren is commonly confused with li, which refers to ritual propriety and appropriate social conduct. Yi means righteousness or moral appropriateness, while xin is associated with trustworthiness or sincerity. These virtues are related but have distinct meanings.