Confucius *** You do not need to copy down any notes in red ***

Confucius was a Chinese philosopher. Confucius wrote five books commonly called The Five Classics: Classic of Poetry Classic of History Classic of Rites Classic of Changes  Spring and Autumn Annals. These books form part of the traditional Confucian canon. Confucius was a Chinese philosopher. He lived in northern China from about 551-479 BCE.

The Four Classics contain the core values and beliefs of Confucianism. Doctrine of the Mean Great Learning Analects Mencius He developed a philosophy for living and tried to convince some of the Chinese rulers to follow his thinking.

Confucius does not refer much to god or spiritual matters; because of this some people say that Confucianism is more of a way of life than a religion.

His teachings emphasized personal and government morality, justice, and sincerity.

He was in favour of strong family loyalty, worshipping ancestors, respecting elders, and filial piety. Rather than being selfish and doing what makes you happy, you should do what it right and what is best for everyone.

People were encouraged to be honest and believe that change was possible.

After Confucius died, his ideas became very popular, and many people follow his teachings.

Confucius wrote the “golden rule”, do unto others what you would have done unto you.