Which Confucian text is also called the Classic of Filial Piety?

The Confucian text called the Classic of Filial Piety is Xiaojing, a title commonly translated as the Classic of Filial Piety.

The work presents a dialogue between Confucius and his disciple Zengzi about xiao, the duties of respect and care owed within the family. It extends filial conduct beyond private family life, arguing that disciplined relationships help shape ethical behavior in society and government.

Traditional accounts attribute the text to Confucius or to a conversation recorded by Zengzi, but modern scholarship generally treats its composition and transmission as more complicated. Different versions circulated, and the received text reflects later editing and commentary.

Xiaojing should not be confused with the Liji, or Book of Rites, which is a much larger ritual collection. Both discuss family conduct, but only Xiaojing is specifically known as the Classic of Filial Piety.