Confucianism and taoism

Confucianism Beliefs and Philosophies

Confucianism K’ung Fu-Tzu (Master Kung) Latin name is “Confucius” He became a teacher when his mother died when he was 20. His students became his followers and recorded his teachings. (Analects)

Confucianism Confucius did not promote his teachings as religion. Application of philosophy but allowed to embrace other religions. Education and self-development are keys to a life of virtue.

“A ruler should himself be a good model to his constituents” Confucianism “A ruler should himself be a good model to his constituents” Confucian philosophy focused on the social responsibility of its followers.

Five tennets of human relationships 1. Ruler and his subjects 2. Husband and Wife 3. Father and Son 4. Older brother and Younger 5. Friends between friends

Taoism The Way or Path

Lao Tzu – Attainment of a balanced inner spirit. Taoism Lao Tzu – Attainment of a balanced inner spirit. Focuses on Balance and Nature. Tao/Dao – “Way” or “Path”

Taoism Destiny and heavenly blessing (Mandate of Heaven) is the cause of things and not the god who created and controls the universe.

Taoism “Wu-Wei” – “Action through inaction” or “Doing by not doing” means that humans should not overdo things. Tao Te Ching/Dao De Jing – Contains basic philosophies of taoism.

Yin represents female aspect, soft and calm. It typifies darkness. Taoism Taoists are given preference to worship their god and goddess at their local temple. Yin represents female aspect, soft and calm. It typifies darkness.

Taoism Yang refers to the male aspect, Hard and Energetic, typifies lightness. Yin and Yang – Balance, Order and Harmony. Without Yin and Yang, Chaos will dominate.