Religions and beliefs in Ancient China Done by Tukayeva Tomiris 8F

What beliefs did they have? Buddhism Confucianism Daoism(or Taoism) This is the main religions in Ancient China. Usually People chose only one from them. But sometimes there were an exceptions. For example: some people believed in Confucianism and Daoism.

Buddhism Buddhism is a tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development. Buddhists strive for a deep insight into the true nature of life and do not worship gods or deities.

How did Buddhism spread in Ancient China? It was around 500 AD, during the rule of Three Kingdoms when Buddhism first came to China from India. Buddhism came into China during the rule of Emperor Ming of Han dynasty. He had seen a dream of a golden man wearing a shining halo. Emperor Ming then sent a representative to Southern India to inquire about Buddhist preaching. Later these scriptures were sent to China on the back of white horses, after which the White Horse temple got named. When Buddhism entered China, Taoism and Confucianism were the two major religions in China.

The ideas of Buddhism Buddha’s teachings have been summarized under the category of Four Noble Truths. They are as follows: a. Suffering is common i.e. birth, sickness, old age and death b. Cause of Suffering is due to ignorance and greed c. End of Suffering is by cutting off the greed and ignorance d. Path to end suffering is by the following the eightfold path

The Eight parts of the eightfold path are as follows: 1. Right View 2. Right Thought 3. Right Speech 4. Right Conduct 5. Right Livelihood 6. Right Effort 7. Right Mindfulness

Influence of the Buddhism It influences the local culture on three main aspects: literature, art and ideology. Many famous poems have ideas from Buddhism and many Buddhist stone statues can be found, which show its huge influence. It also promotes the countries’ intercultural communications with foreign countries.

Confucianism Confucianism, not a real religion, is just an ethical and philosophical system, which developed from Confucius’ thoughts and later was treated as a kind of belief to educate common people.

How did Confucianism spread in Ancient China? Not long after Lao-Tzu founded Taoism, Confucius was born in 551 BC. Confucius was a philosopher and thinker. Confucius came up with ways that people should behave and live. He didn't write these down, but his followers did. 

Ideas of Confucianism Confucius' teachings focus on treating others with respect, politeness, and fairness. He thought that honor and morality were important qualities. He also said that family was important and honoring one's relatives was required. Unlike Taoists, followers of Confucius believed in a strong organized government. 

• Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses • Forget injuries, never forget kindnesses. • It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. • Our greatest glory is not, in never falling, but in getting up every time we do. • When anger rises, think of the consequences. • Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it.

Influence of the Confucianism  Based on the Four Books and Five Classics, the traditions and principles in the Confucianism played an important role in the formation of Chinese people’s thinking patterns and teaching methods. For instance, Doctrine of the Mean can be seen on communications among people. Now, to some extent, where Chinese people stay or live, there will be Confucianism

Daoism(Taoism) Taoism contains many profound theories which at first may be difficult to understand. In general, these theories reflect Taoism as a balanced relationship between human beings and nature.

How did Daoism spread in Ancient China? Taoism was formally established in the late Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Northern and Southern Dynasties (386-589) saw it become the legitimacy religion like Buddhism in China, because it was supported by some emperors for political reasons. This religion welcomed its silver age from Tang Dynasty (618-907) to Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). Many sects were formed during this period. Taoist temples were scattered all over the country and Taoist masters came forth in great number. After Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), it has divided into two major sects: Quanzhen Sect and Zhengyi Sect.

Ideas of Daoism Taoism wants peace and stability like many other religions. The early Taiping Classic (Peace Classic) expressed Taoists' own understanding on peace. Taoism thinks that people must perform according to inherent rules in order to establish a harmonious and orderly world where everyone is equal and kind to each other. 

Influence of the Daoism  In the 1,800 years, Taoism influenced the local culture deeply, especially on traditional medicine and literature. Based on some theories of alchemists such as Wei Boyang in Eastern Han Dynasty, different kinds of medicine prescriptions were created by Sun Simiao and many other doctors. In literature, many fictional characters are closely related with Taoism, such as the Jade Emperor. Apart from Mainland China, many Taoists live in Hong Kong, Macau and some foreign countries. 

Conclusion  Confucianism and Taoism, plus Buddhism, constitute the "three teachings", philosophical frameworks which historically have had a significant role in shaping Chinese culture.[1][2] Elements of these three belief systems are incorporated into folk or popular religions.[3] Chinese religions are family- oriented and do not demand exclusive adherence, allowing the practice or belief of several at the same time

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Links 10) Article Title: Ancient Chinese Religion - Ancient China for kids Website Title: Ancient Chinese Religion - Ancient China for kids URL: http://www.historyforkids. net/ancient-chinese- religion.html http://personaltao.com/teachings/taois m/who_is_a_taoist/ www.deviantart.com wondrlust.com mmsamee.weebly.com www.patheos.com prezi.com