Religion
Confucianism was founded in China. That much you know. But as you begin your research, a broader, far more interesting picture comes into view. It was created in opposition to Legalism, a harsh and brutal way of ruling, and with the intent of unifying the seven warring states of China. It is organized in a series of texts, and it grew out of injustice, much like America. In fact, Legalist rulers attempted to burn the Confucianism teachings. They ultimately failed, and Confucianism spread across Asia.
Confician officials were chosen based on how well they scored on Confician beliefs, thus re-enforcing those ideals.
Confucianism, much like Buddhism, was more about how to live your life, dictating lifestyle, than the spiritual world.
The core belief of Confucianism, very much like Buddhism, was not at all about individualism. It was that, fundamentally, humans could change. One must show respect to authority and elders. You are a part of a group first are foremost and an individual second. Family units are the building blocks for society. These ideas apply to many different relationships. Rulers and subjects, parents and children, husbands and wives, and even siblings. The only time in which there was absolute equality was among friends.
The idea of the "golden rule" or to “never do to others what you would not like them to do to you” stems from Confucianism, along with leading by example, respect for elders (Filial Piety), worshipping ancestors, knowing your place in society, and bringing harmony to family systems.
Confucianism spread throughout Asia and influences culture even today
Yet, no matter how far you delve into its history, there will always be more intriguing discoveries and nuances to be discovered. You decide it's time to move on. After all, time is running out.
Confician officials were chosen based on how well they scored on Confician beliefs, thus re-enforcing those ideals.
Confucianism, much like Buddhism, was more about how to live your life, dictating lifestyle, than the spiritual world.
The core belief of Confucianism, very much like Buddhism, was not at all about individualism. It was that, fundamentally, humans could change. One must show respect to authority and elders. You are a part of a group first are foremost and an individual second. Family units are the building blocks for society. These ideas apply to many different relationships. Rulers and subjects, parents and children, husbands and wives, and even siblings. The only time in which there was absolute equality was among friends.
The idea of the "golden rule" or to “never do to others what you would not like them to do to you” stems from Confucianism, along with leading by example, respect for elders (Filial Piety), worshipping ancestors, knowing your place in society, and bringing harmony to family systems.
Confucianism spread throughout Asia and influences culture even today
Yet, no matter how far you delve into its history, there will always be more intriguing discoveries and nuances to be discovered. You decide it's time to move on. After all, time is running out.