Chinese Religion Flashcards
The traditions of China challenge the western concept of "religion." Rather than enforcing dogma, China's various systems of thought and practice borrow from and build on each other, forming a rich patchwork of intermingling ideas. This deck provides a very brief introduction to the ethical and religious traditions native to China: Confucianism, Taoism, and ancient folk religion.
What is Confucius’ name in Chinese?
Kung Fu-tzu
When and where was Confucius born?
Around 551 B.C.E., in what is now Shantung Province in China
Briefly outline the historical facts of Confucius’ life.
- His family was poor
- Father died when Confucius was a toddler
- His dream was to be a politician
- Never succeeded in politics, but proved to be an excellent scholar and teacher
- Developed a devoted following of students
- Died at age 73, a very advanced age for his time
What is li?
In Confucian thought, “li” refers to “the way things should be done”
- Literally, “ritual”
- In this context, extends to secular situations
- The behaviors and traditions that lead to a peaceful civilization
In the context of ancient Chinese religious traditions, what is T’ien or Tian?
The ancient Chinese concept of Heaven
- A higher plane inhabited by ancestors
- Presided over by the supreme ancestor-god Shang-Ti
- The concept of T’ien is over 3000 years old
What is ch’i?
The life-force that flows through one’s body
- Literally “breath”
- Maximization and control of ch’i is central to Taoist exercises
What does the term “Chinese folk religion” refer to?
The eclectic, unorganized collection of ancient Chinese religious traditions
- Not clearly defined against more systematized philosophy-religions like Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism
- Ancestors are often deified
- Many minor folk deities devoted to a narrow scope (e.g. a certain location or clan)
- Often animistic
Who was the founder of Taoism and when was he born?
Lao Tzu is said to have been born around 604 B.C.E.
Almost nothing is known for certain about him, though legends abound.
What is the central text of Taoism?
The Tao Te Ching
What are the Five Constant Relationships in Confucianism?
The five types of relationships central to social life, all of which must be properly conducted in order to maintain a healthy society
- Husband and wife
- Parent and child
- Elder sibling and younger sibling
- Elder friend and younger friend
- Ruler and subject
What is filial piety?
Respect for elders, particularly for one’s parents
This concept was championed by Confucius in the 5th century B.C.E. and has become hugely influential in East Asian cultures.
What are the Four Books and the Five Classics?
The Four Books and the Five Classics are the authoritative works of Confucianism
- The Five Classics were compiled and edited by Confucius himself
- The Four Books were selected by the scholar Zhu Xi in the 12th century C.E.
- The most important of these is the Analects of Confucius
What is the literal meaning of “Tao”?
The Way
What four traditions constitute the religious patchwork of China?
- Confucianism
- Buddhism
- Taoism
- Ancient folk religion
Note: In China, none of these are perceived as mutually exclusive. They intermingle in various combinations.
What is wu wei?
Literally “without action,” a concept central to Taoism
- Associated with water and its flexible but powerful nature
- Simplicity and serenity that lead to harmony with the external world
