Buddhism Founder: Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) When: Around 500 BCE, spread to China in 150 CE Location: Started in India, spread to China, Korea, and Japan
Buddhism Major beliefs: Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path, freedom from desire = freedom from suffering Why it succeeded in China: Many Chinese people were suffering; Buddhism offered an escape from suffering
Ancestor Worship Founder: Unknown, but promoted by Confucius When: Rose to popularity/official around Han Dynasty (200s BCE) Location: China
Ancestor Worship Major beliefs: After ancestors die, they become a connecting force between the living and the gods/forces of nature. Why it succeeded in China: Ancestor worship allowed people to connect with the gods. It also easily mixed with other religions that came to China.
Bellwork Take a sheet from the tray Get in your seat A wise person learns and lives a long life-but a fool refuses instruction
Taoism Founder: Lao Tzu When: 300s BCE Location: China
Taoism Major beliefs: Live in harmony with nature, do good, and avoid conflict. Why it succeeded in China: Ancient Chinese were heavily influenced by nature. Taoism gave meaning to the natural world.
Confucianism Founder: Confucius When: Around 500 BCE Location: China
Confucianism Major beliefs: People need to take care of their families, be good citizens, help others, and choose wise leaders. Why it succeeded in China: Confucianism places importance on family and community. Chinese were already doing this (ancestor worship), so it blended well with Chinese traditions.