UNIT 2 | Major Belief Systems | Confucianism

#2.4 Confucianism

1. Confucianism overview

Confucianism is a belief system that was founded by Confucius in China in the 400s BCE. 403-221 BCE is called the Warring States Era in which local lords were fighting amongst each other. This chaotic period saw the emergence of numerous schools of philosophy among which—Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism—exercised a particularly deep influence on Chinese political and cultural traditions.

Confucians believe that we should strive to peace and harmony with others in society. This

peace, harmony, and social order can be achieved through the proper behavior of each member of

a family or society by following two concepts:

● Five Relationships: Particular duties arise from one's particular situation in relation to others.

● Filial Piety: virtue of respect for one's father, elders, and ancestors After Confucius died, his students compiled the master’s sayings and teachings in a book known as the Analects.

UNIT 2 | Major Belief Systems | Confucianism

1. The Five Relationship To achieve harmony in society, Confucius did

not concern much with the structure of the state.

He thought political and social harmony arose

from the proper ordering of human relationships

rather than the establishment of state offices.

Confucius was not as interested in the big

mysteries of existence such as the origin or the

universe, God, or the afterlife, because he

thought they went beyond the capacity of mortal

human intelligence.

Confucius believed that there were five fundamental relationships in society:

1. Ruler and Subject 2. Father and Son 3. Husband to Wife 4. Older Brother and Younger Brother 5. Friend and Friend

Each of these relationships showed who had more power over others. The only relationship that is equal is between friends. 1. Confucius believed that his teachings could bring peace and harmony to society. Do you agree with his Five Basic Relationship?

positives? negatives?

2. If you could add a 6th relationship, which would you believe would further Confucius’s idea of social harmony? Explain your reasoning.

UNIT 2 | Major Belief Systems | Confucianism

2. Filial Piety As mentioned earlier in Shang China, family is central to Chinese life. In fact, three of Confucian five relationships revolve around the family itself. Confucius stressed the importance of filial piety, or respect for one’s parents and ancestors. The demands of filial piety obliged children to respect their parents and other family elders, look after their welfare, support them in old age, and remember them along with other ancestors after their deaths. Confucius believed that individuals who practice filial piety at home would gain influence in the larger society. Those who disciplined themselves and properly molded their characters would possess personal self-control and have the power of leading others by example. Only through leadership by morally strong individuals was there any hope for the restoration of political and social order in China. Confucius himself followed his own beliefs. His practice of the five basic relationships within the province of Lu. According to legend, he set such a virtuous example that a coin purse lying in the middle of the street would be untouched for day. Questions: 1. Do you believe the idea that filial piety is necessary in a perfect or harmonious society? Explain your reasoning. 2. Confucius believed that his teachings could bring peace and harmony to society. If everyone followed the concept of filial piety, would that help bring peace and harmony to society? Why or why not? 3. What are some examples of show filial piety to parents?