The Sheep Kneels to Nurse

Sheep were regarded by the ancients as a symbol of benevolence, righteousness and propriety. This is reflected by the following excerpt from Dong Zhongshu’s Chunqiu Fanlu (Luxuriant Dew of the Spring and Autumn Annals ):

Like those devoted to benevolence,

Sheep never use their horns to attack.

Like those who die fearlessly as martyrs,

Sheep never bleat when caught or slaughtered.

Like those who observe propriety,

Sheep never take milk from their mothers without kneeling.

The phrase “kneel to nurse” appears frequently in works of art and literature, suggesting the profound kindness shown by devoted children to their parents, a virtue known as ‘filial piety’. Filial piety is considered foremost among virtues, having taken root in Chinese culture over thousands of years. In the past, the “24 Examples of Filial Piety” were used to extol the virtues of filial devotion. Nowadays, the Filial Piety Award ceremony is held to encourage virtuous behavior. Each recipient of the Filial Piety Award is granted a Sheep Kneel to Nurse trophy. Designed by the sculptor, Zhu Ming, the trophy serves as a reminder that people should remember their parent’s love and generosity and return their kindness.