Confucius Project

Confucianism has been a part of Chinese culture for over a thousand years. Many who have studied Confucianism would say that it is not a religion. It is better described as a philosophy or moral code. The philosophy of Confucianism comes mainly from the speeches and writings of Confucius, a great Chinese thinker and educator. He believed that Humanity, Rite, Neutrality, Virtue, Education, and Cultivation were the basis of human behavior. In addition, Confucius felt that this philosophy was the best way for people to behave and interact with others in society.

In Han China, the social beliefs of Confucianism brought China closer by teaching morals and ethical principles (EV-H). Confucianism brought upon social order and respect to China (EV-H). Unlike the Han, Christianity tore Imperial Rome apart. Christianity conflicted with Rome’s beliefs because Christians believe in spiritual peace. These beliefs conflicted with Rome’s military virtues, triggering conflicting opinions and divisions (EV-R). Ultimately, Christianity weakened the Roman Empire as opposed to Confucianism uniting Han China.

“He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger.” - Confucius

Confucianism is a belief system of thoughts taught by Confucius in China during the 5th and 6th century BCE during the Zhou dynasty. During this time, China was dealing with serious political conflicts, moral chaos, and intellectual conflict and order were almost non-existent. During this political struggle, Confucius believed that going back to the “traditional ways” was the only path for society to get back on track and developed his thought into what is known as Confucianism. It has existed for over two millennia and has changed over time. Some people refer to Confucianism as philosophy while others view it as a religion. Confucianism is a belief system which can be incorporated into other religious beliefs and forms of religion. This belief system has heavily influenced politics and life in China and neighboring places.

The contrarian argument of Confucianism as a religion is somewhat convoluted, and all the less convincing as a result. It has been argued that Confucianism and particularly Confucian ethics have to be separated a little from Confucius himself. The argument runs that, because of the missing items discussed

     Confucius’s counsel and guidance recorded in The Analects instilled wisdom when they were first recorded and continue to provide a thought provoking analysis of life and the checkpoints that guide it. The Master’s commentary on restraint, diligence, decency, and citizenship are well intended and relevant. Politics and the role of government also come under scrutiny as Confucius offers his insights in bettering the organization of power. His proverb-like admonitions use clear examples of everyday life allowing them to be understood and easily digested. Confucius’s own eagerness and willingness to share goodness he experienced makes it easier to apply and practice in one’s own life.

The ideas of Confucianism and Christianity have both made significant impacts on the world, bringing masses of people together for a common purpose. Both have creeds and principles that have guided millions towards leading a better, more purpose-driven life. However, Confucianism and Christianity have very distinct differences. The practices of Confucianism and Christianity have many differences regarding their doctrines and purpose of life. Both groups are similar in that they have one, clear leader; however, Confucius and Jesus Christ were vastly different from one another.

Religion is unique in several different ways, but each religion has the same core values and guidelines that intertwine with one another. However, I do agree Confucius and Buddha are indeed incredibly comparable. Confucius and Buddha encouraged, believed, and aspired deeply to share their teachings. Although, Confucius struggled more than Buddha to spread his teachings, Confucius’ main goal of humanity still thrives in China’s civilization. On the other hand, Buddha’s message of trying to end suffering and preserve humanity was spread quickly and used effectively.

Confucianism is a religion that is made to be interwoven with other East Asian religions like Taoism and Buddhism. The combination happens because Confucianism along with the other East Asian religions are more like traditions and are better to be seen as having different qualities that add up to the religion of Eastern Asia (Brodd 127). I agree with the idea that East Asia’s religion of different traditions. Confucianism is a religion that focuses mainly on human relationships (Brodd 128). A major goal in Confucianism is learning to be human.

The main belief taught by Confucius was called Jen, or sometimes Ren, which is translated to goodness or humaneness. It doesn't teach about actions, but more of internal thoughts from the heart. It is defined as truly desiring only good for others. Confucianism teaches that Jen is so important that people should give their own life to defend or protect

Confucius, who lived from 551-479 BCE, was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and politician. Confucius had written a set of books or ideas and concepts called The Analects. These were different collections of sayings that Confucius had written to reflect his ideas about different things like politics, family, morality, and many more. Confucius is also the creator of the commonly used “Golden Rule” of “do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.” Through his teachings, books, and his followers, the philosophy of Confucianism was created. In Doctrine of the Mean, Confucius explains how to perfect oneself and how to become a morally righteous person. He explains how one must maintain a balance into a constant state of equilibrium.

Confucius created a system of thinking called Confucianism. If only one word could be used to summarize the Chinese way of life for the last two thousand years, that word would be Confucian. No other person has had as great an effect on the life and thought of the Chinese people as Confucius. He is the most adored person in Chinese history. Confucius claimed no greatness, instead he looked to a past time that he saw as the golden age. He told one of his disciples, "I transmit but I do not create. I am sincerely fond of the ancient. I would compare myself to Old P'eng who was fond of talking about the good old days." Confucius was a transmitter of the wisdom of the past. From his study of Chinese tradition, he gathered the

Confucius became famous as a sage, or wise man, of China during the Age of Philosophers. His Five Classics have influenced the civilizations of most of eastern Asia. Confucius was born in the state of Lu when local rulers refused to pay homage to the emperor of a failing Chou dynasty. Confucius hated the disorder that ensued and looked back on a time when things like that were not even thought of. He studied the teachings of the sage’s whose teachings and influences had made China one whole nation at one time. He decided that he was the one who should restore the faith and practices of the old emperors and wise men. Since Confucius was not able to gain an official position in China, he spent most of his life teaching a core

Confucius beliefs are not set in stone and it is up to the individual whether or not they want to oblige to the practices but in most cases, East Asians follow them as if law. “Goodness can be taught and learned, and that society can only be in harmony and at peace under the guidance of wisdom” (Yao 26). The traditions practiced by the cultures in East Asia can be seen through the model of a balanced life. Balance begins with the self and society and balance is about finding a midpoint through two opposing forces. Human beings have great potential but they have their limits and this is a core issue in finding a balance in one’s life. Virtue in this case is the balance. One must be able to balance the interests of the self and others in order to find harmony within the community. This situation is relatable to the relationship between rulers and the rules because the ruler must find a balance when creating a rule so that citizens will oblige to the rule. Sometimes there may have to be a compromise if the people are unhappy with the rules set in place by the ruler, but there has to be some sort of balance within both sides interests. Confucianism is a way of thinking and acting, especially in political situations but it is clear that there is a different perspective on his beliefs between differing countries. “For some, Confucianism is not a religion because it focuses on interpersonal relationships, rather

The main point of chapter four from book two is to show Confucius’s account of the gradual process and attainments. Through different ages (fifteen, thirty, forty, etc.) Confucius endeavors to attain self-fulfillment. The idea of learning about the self is one way to become more in tune with goodness and The pursuit of this concept is not about just knowledge but the teachings of the self. It refers to the book title (concerning government) because the same thing that applies to the person can be applied to the government. A sense of self and focusing on learning the countries needs would help build the country.