Confucianism Flashcards
Confucianism:
is an early Chinese religion; 1) developed in isolation 2) with animistic backgrounds
What does the dragon symbolize?
The river provides for the people
I Ching or Yin Yang:
Yang: light, bright, male, strong, day: dragon
Yin: dark, weak, female, death, night: tiger
Tien:
The Will of Heaven
The Tao:
“the way/force of nature”
3 main aspects to confucianism?
Localized nature spirits, divination and oracle bones, balance of nature
What is the two-fold development?
Chia: leads to Jen (philosophy, thought, teaches)
Chiao: Leads to Li (doing, practitioner)
Who is Confucius?
Real name: Kong Fū; he was a commoner who worked as an administrator for the gov’t. he taught sons of nobility chivalry and good will.
What books did Confucius write?
the Analects and the Book of Changes (I Ching)
What did Mencius believe?
humans are good; but culture makes them do wrong. Water runs downhill unless it is shifted.
Who were the masters after confucius?
Mencius and Hsun-Tzu
What are the 5 Confucius beliefs?
1) optimistic humanism
2) seeking social harmony
3) creation of an ordered society
4) focus on growth and achievement
5) Life-cycles/ seasons of humanity; wisdom is passed down and spirits are always present
What is ‘Li’ practise?
external - correct ritual action; ideally expresses inner intention. Represented through 5 relationships…
What are the 5 relationships?
1) Father - son
2) older - younger (sibling)
3) husband - wife (righteous - obedient)
4) Elder - junior (consideration - deference)
5) Ruler - subject (benevolent - loyal)
Golden rule of Confucianism:
Do not do to others what you yourself do not desire
