Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical religion based on the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. It involves a system of moral, social, political, philosophical, and religious thought which has had a great influence on the culture and history of Eastern Asia. It is focused on the improvement of virtues and moral perfection, and can be viewed as more of a path to an ideal world rather than a religion. Today, there are about 6 million Confucians worldwide, spread throughout Europe, China, America, and Asia.
(picture: Chinese character for Confucius)
K’ung Fu Tzu, or Confucius, was born in 551 BC, in Lu, China. Here he opened a school, pursuing his love of teaching, which then led to his appointment as minister of justice in Lu. After this, he wandered throughout China for many years, giving advice to Chinese leaders, but found no opportunity to make public his political and social vision for China. So he turned back to teaching, gathering followers and instructing them on his views on ethics and morality. Being such a wise teacher and philosopher, this ideology slowly began to spread.The idea of Confucianism was not a new concept during his time; Confucius simply gave the beliefs a structure. But Confucianism did not become widely accepted until after his death in 479 BC.
(picture: Confucius)
Important Values/Ethics in Confucianism:-Li: correct propriety, ritual and etiquette-Yi: the halo of righteousness-Hsiao: love among members of a family or society-Xin: the power of trustworthiness and honesty-Jen: inherent humaneness and benevolence-Chung: loyalty to ruling authorities Confucianism emphasizes the importance of avoiding conflict and having correct behaviour. One is expected to live by a high ethical and moral code in order to achieve self improvement, which will lead to the improvement and well-being of society. This can be done by following the Golden Rule: Do to others what you would want done to you. Good manners are very important, as they reflect outward actions and inward feelings of respect. Social relationships are also central in Confucianism. Virtues including courtesy, selflessness, obedience, respect, diligence, working for a common good, social harmony, and empathy are encouraged. Also, Confucius was a strong believer in the theory of filial piety, or respect for one’s elders and ancestors. Although Confucianism does not recognize a God, it promotes worship of the ancestors and shows reverence toward Heaven/the ideal world. These beliefs are based on Confucius’ view that by simply establishing rules and punishing those who do not follow them, people would have no sense of shame. But by setting a code of morality, people will have shame and avoid trouble at the same time.
(picture: Confucian temple)
1) Room for Confucius in Modern China (San Francisco Chronicle): http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2010/05/30/MNKV1DF47J.DTL 2) Deeper Unity Lurks in Confucian Embrace (Asia Times): http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/LD29Ad01.html 3) A New Battle for Confucius (Asia Times): http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/LC04Ad06.html 4) China Has New Respect for Confucius (VOA News): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vQm2B8Syho 5) Confucius in the Classroom Controversy (FOX News): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beRu_TPmYLw
Confucianism was once a very powerful and influential religion/philosophy throughout Asia, but is gradually losing followers. In a rapidly changing society, people find it difficult to adapt this way of thinking into a modern one. They are becoming more open to new ideologies, and less interested in old traditions. Many Confucian-based principles and traditions have been put aside, including the importance of family, which is now less emphasized. However, there have been a number of Confucian revivals in certain areas of China. Grade schools and universities are offering courses which teach traditional Confucian values. The outlook for this religion is undecided so far, but it still remains a large and influential part of Asian culture.
(picture: traditional Palilmu dance, ritual for Confucius)
-“For one to run state affairs well, he must first run his family in harmony. To have a harmonious family, he must first behave himself well. To behave himself, he must first set his heart right . . .” (Confucius, from The Great Learning). Importance: emphasizes harmony/order of life and self-improvement leading to improvement of society-“This equilibrium is the great root from which grow all the human actings in the world, and this harmony is the universal path which they all should pursue” (Confucius, from the Doctrine of the Mean) Importance: emphasizes balance in life and the goal of self-perfection/harmony -"To know your faults and be able to change is the greatest virtue” (Confucius) Importance: emphasizes personal growth and knowledge -"What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others” (Confucius) Importance: emphasizes treating others well and having good manners
(picture: book of collection of Confucius texts)
1. What is ultimate reality/supreme power?
-Confucianism does not believe in any supreme ruler or God, as its focus is mainly on the improvement of humanity by our own abilities. Christianity, however, does believe in a holy God who rules over and created everything.
2. What is the nature of the world?
-Humans are seen as a mixture of good and evil, and depending on the individual’s actions, one can outbalance the other. In Christianity, humans are all born in sin.
3. Where do I fit in the universe?
-The role of humans in Confucianism is to seek knowledge, study, and become a better person. In order to accomplish this, one must learn proper behaviour and morals. Self improvement will eventually lead to the overall improvement of society. The Christian view is that man was put on earth to take care of the creation and to praise God.
4. What is the problem with humanity? The solution?
-Society is unbalanced and unstable. People give into their instincts and have no self-restraint. They are uneducated about morals and virtues and behave improperly. The solution is to promote a unified society based on good conduct and values, through education. With Christianity, the problem is sin. Ever since the Fall, people continue to make wrong choices and go against God’s laws. The solution is to ask Him for forgiveness and follow his instructions, and find redemption through Christ.
5. What happens after death?
-Confucianism does not believe in anything after death, as they are mainly concerned with improving their lives. Confucius once said, "We haven't yet finished studying life to delve into the question of death." Christianity teaches that depending on whether you accept Jesus as Saviour, you will spend an eternity in heaven or hell.
(picture: scene depicting filial piety)
