Unit 3 World Religions Lesson #5 Taoism/Confucianism

Aim: What does it mean to be Taoist or a follower of Confucius? Do Now: Examine these two quotes from The Way and Its Power (an important text for Taoism) and The Analects (an important text for Confucianism). Taoism: When good is recognized in the world, evil has been learned.” Confucianism: The Master said, “Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.” Choose one quote and explain whether you agree or disagree and why? Turn & Talk NY State Standard 2 Common Core RS 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and WS 1, 2

I Who were Laozi and Confucius? A) After the fall of the Zhou Dynasty in China in 475 BCE, China entered the Warring States Period; a time of war between competing states. B) Confucius and Laozi developed different ways to restore peace, unity, and harmony to China. On the left is Laozi and on the right is Confucius

Warring States Era, China 403 – 221 BCE

II Taoism “the way” A) Laozi, the founder of Taoism in the 6th century BCE, wrote The Way of Virtue, a sacred text of Taoism. B) Taoist Beliefs: 1. Taoism needs to be experienced. 2. Ch'i is the life force in all things. 3. It is virtuous to avoid conflict. Government should be limited. 4. Taoism is polytheistic. Discussion Question: What do you think it means to experience a religion like Taoism? “Those who know the Tao do not speak of it. Those who speak of it do not know it.”

II Taoism “Go with the flow” The yin-yang symbol represents two opposing and complementary forces that make up all things. Discussion Question: Have you ever had someone that has been the Yin to your Yang? Explain? “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow... Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” - Laozi

II Taoism C) Taoist Practices: 1. Tai Chi is a form of moving meditation 2. Taoists worship at shrines and temples; often outdoors due to their respect for nature. 3. The Lantern Festival is a Taoist holiday celebrated during the first full moon of the year.

Taoist Lantern Festival

III Confucianism B) Beliefs: A) Confucius (551 - 479 BCE) was a Chinese philosopher. His teachings were written down in the Analects by his students. His teachings greatly influenced Chinese culture. B) Beliefs: 1. Filial piety: respect for your elders and ancestors. 2. There are 5 key relationships in any society. Only friends are equals. You must accept your role in society to keep harmony. SUPERIOR INFERIOR Ruler Ruled Husband Wife Parent Child Elder brother Younger Brother Friend Discussion Question: What connections can you make between Confucianism and Taoism?

D) Confucius Day is celebrated in China on September 29th. Confucius Quotes “Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.” “Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues.”

Activity Students will complete Religions Matrix in which they organize characteristics of each religion including: Values/Beliefs; Objects; Places; Gods; Rituals.

Closing Exit Slip Question: What does it mean to be Taoist or a follower of Confucius? Homework: