Confucianism


The Confucianism, contrary to popular belief, is not exactly a religion, but a doctrine based on the philosophical system of the Chinese Confucius (Kung-Fu-Tzu) during the sixth century BC

During this period an elaborate system of moral, social, political, religious and teaching was established, based on ancient Chinese traditions and at the same time innovative in terms of rationalism.

Therefore, as a religion, Confucianism is, at best, a dogmatic doctrine, especially in its reverence for ancestors.

This philosophical system constitutes a set of teachings on social ethics. It established a treatise on political ideology, according to which every human being would have the intelligence necessary to modify means and the ends of their existence by transforming the arbitrary conditions that arose in life.

This moral philosophy has had a major impact on the Chinese and Asian social structure as a whole. This is because it is in the genesis of values ​​so present in oriental cultures, such as discipline, order, political conscience, work and the valorization of study as intellectual formation.

In Confucianism, the family is the social basis on which all human beings are based and on which the system of government is a broader aspect.

Rulers are considered the “fathers of the people,” not only subjects but obedient and humble children who respect the political authority based on heaven’s mandate.

Thus, it is not surprising the respect for hierarchical superiors in cultures influenced by Confucianism, where this school served as a template for those who wanted government positions.

It is worth noting that humanity is the central pillar of Confucianism. It is believed that all humans are naturally good, and education is the primary factor that will determine the human condition.

Therefore, as a doctrine, Confucianism will reconcile human nature with political and social theories, which makes it a prescriptive doctrine of good living.

Finally, it is noteworthy that Confucianism competed with other currents of thought in China during the 400 BC – 200 BC, such as Buddhism and Taoism.

However, Confucianism has prevailed as the official doctrine of the Chinese state for tens of centuries.

Key Attributes of Confucianism

Humanity, justice, rituals, knowledge, integrity, loyalty, filial piety, continence, honesty, kindness and forgiveness, judgment and sense of right and wrong, bravery, kindness and kindness, respect, frugality, modesty and discretion.

Kung-Fu-Tzu and Confucianism

Confucius, the Latin form of the Chinese name Kung Fu Tzu, was a thinker who restructured Chinese society with its essentially ethical teachings during the sixth century BC.

Born in a poor but noble cradle, Kung Fu Tzu can become a sage and earned a great reputation as a young teacher when he opened his first school at age 22.

From this renown, he won government positions until he reached Lu State Minister, his native province, now Shan-tung province.

Confucius had been a contemporary of Buddha (creator of Buddhism) and Lao Tzu (founder of Taoism). He died at the age of 80, leaving over 3,000 trained disciples.

Curiosities

  • In Confucianism, “ritual” means all ceremonial behavior performed on a daily basis.
  • Confucianism influenced the cultural formation of countries other than China, such as Japan and Korea.
  • Confucianism has no churches or clerical order.

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