East Asian Traditions Confucianism, Taoism, Shinto

Syncretism It is a common feature of East Asian religions that one cannot always set boundaries on what belongs to one faith or the other

Confucianism From Chinese philosopher, K’ung Fu-tzu, or Confucius, ( BCE) Teachings gathered in the Analects Gained importance in the centuries after his death

Confucianism Has never existed as an established religion with a church and a priesthood Has influenced the Chinese attitude toward life Spread to Korea, Japan and Vietnam

(Continued) It provides a code of living, valuing goodwill, duty, good manners wisdom, and trustworthiness

Role of family is emphasized The family that works together makes a happier household and a better society The most important duty is to honor your parents

Success of society Depends upon the moral quality of its leaders Good government comes from educated, courteous, and virtuous officials

Taoism The philosophy of Laozi, who also lived in the 6th century BCE Compiled in the Daodejing, “The way and its power”

Goal Each believer’s goal is to become one with the Dao. The concept of a personified deity is foreign to them They seek answers to life’s problems through inner meditation and outer observation

Symbol Represents the balance between opposites (yin, yang) in the universe

Shinto The ancient religion of Japan When Buddhist monks arrived in Japan, they took over the care of the shrines

Shinto Means “Way of the gods” Stresses purity and perfection Natural wonders, such as Fuji, are worthy of reverence No regular services