noun
respect for elders; fraternal piety
A Confucian virtue emphasizing respect and obedience toward older siblings or elders. Rare in modern Japanese outside classical or ethical discussions.
儒教では、悌は孝と並ぶ重要な徳目とされる。
In Confucianism, fraternal piety is considered an important virtue alongside filial piety.
noun
harmony among siblings
Refers to peaceful, respectful relationships between brothers and sisters. Also a Confucian concept; rarely used in everyday language.
悌の精神は、兄弟間の和を重んじる。
The spirit of sibling harmony values peace among brothers and sisters.
孝 refers specifically to filial piety (respect for parents), while 悌 refers to respect for elders or harmony among siblings.
The kanji 悌 is composed of 心 (heart) and 弟 (younger brother), suggesting a heart that respects older siblings. The reading てい is the on'yomi. The word is a classical Chinese-derived term used in Confucian ethics.