The philosophy, almost a religion in China based on the teachings and writings of Kong Fuzi. He lived circa 500 BC in China during the ‘Warring States’ Period of the Zhou dynasty. He lived through a time of turmoil and conflict.
He taught:
- The obligations of one to his family
- The obligations of a subject to his ruler
- The obligations of a ruler to his subjects
His teachings instilled precepts which Chinese hold dear:
- The worship of ones ancestors
- The obligation of children to be dutiful and obedient to their parents
- The necessity of subjects to be obedient to their ruler
- The need for the ruler to govern with fairness, justice, and mercy, and to carry out the rituals to please the heavens.
His followers complied a book: The Analects, which has had a profound impact on Chinese life for over 2,500 years.
The goal for Confucianism: to bring peace and harmony to society. Summed up by the expression, “Filial Piety”.
“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.”
