A Son Comes Before a Father

Xuefeng

A man cannot be called a father if he has no son. Only when a son is born can a man be called a father. Therefore, the son comes before the father; it is only after the son exists that the identity of “father” is established.

Likewise, a grandson comes before a grandfather; it is the grandson’s existence that makes someone a grandfather.

This makes logical sense. But then again, without a father, how can there be a son? Without a grandfather, how can there be a grandson?

So which comes first—the son or the father? The grandson or the grandfather?

In terms of physical life, of course, the father comes before the son, the grandfather before the grandson. But in terms of naming and identity, it is without question that the son comes first before the title of father, and the grandson before the title of grandfather.

From the perspective of reincarnation and the soul’s journey, it’s impossible to determine which soul came first—the father’s or the son’s.

When it comes to identity, role, and title, the elder should be grateful to the younger. A father should be thankful to his son, for it is the son who gives the man the qualification and role of being a father. Without a son, a man cannot claim the title or status of a father. The identity of "father" is granted by the son.

Without subjects, how can there be an emperor? Without citizens, how can there be a president?

From this, we can derive a principle of ethics and morality: A father should not boss his son around; a president should not act high and mighty before the people; a teacher should not look down on students; a master should not act superior to disciples—because the father is "born" by the son, the president by the people, the teacher by the students, and the master by the disciples.

And thus we understand why true gods, Buddhas, immortals, and saints are always humble and loving, and why arrogant, selfish, ego-driven strongmen belong to the tribe of demons.

May 20, 2025