Abstract：Confucius advocated the thought of benevolence, caring people, supporting people and sharing equally, which are the theoretical foundation of philanthropy, and further fut forward the thought of social assistance, including the thought of philanthropicminde, valuing justice over benefit, cutting tax and so on. The Confucius thought of social assistance is a spirit of universality and philanthropy, and has made far-reaching effects on Chinese history. Making the best of the reasonable connotation of Confucius thought of social assistance and overcoming its limitations will facilitate the development of contemporary Chinese social assistance.

Keyword：Confucius;the thought of social assistance;benevolence;