Chinese Religions - Readings
Confucianism
Confucianism focuses on peace and order in society. Confucius was a philosopher who lived in China in
during the Warring States period about 2,500 years ago. During this time of war and disorder, different
leaders fought for control of China. Confucius wrote that in order to have a peaceful society, each
person must act appropriately for their status in life. Confucius identified four hierarchical relationships:
ruler and subject, husband and wife, parent and child, and older sibling and younger sibling. Confucius
said that people had the responsibility to show respect to their social superiors. However, those in
positions of power have a responsibility to rule wisely and earn the respect of those they rule.
Confucianism spread throughout the region along with the spread of Chinese imperial power. Chinese
emperors used the Confucian ideas of hierarchy to rule people and kingdoms. Confucianism is still part
of everyday life in China, Korea, and Japan. The ideas of the philosophy can be seen in how children act
toward parents and in how employees act toward employers. In North Korea, Confucianism has even
been used to inspire faith in the power of the authoritarian state.
Daoism
Around the same time as Confucianism appeared, another philosophy, Daoism (also seen spelled as
Taoism), was emerging. Laozi, who many believe to be the founder of Daoism, taught that people should
live simple and natural lives in balance with nature. It is from Daoism that we receive the ideas of yin
(the dark side of nature) and yang (the light side of nature). Daoism preaches that people are in
harmony when they balance the yin and the yang in their lives. Daoists believe that strict rules prevent
people from living in balance with nature. Each person should discover the Dao, or “the Way,” for
themselves.
Chinese Religions – Symbols
This symbol is used during wedding Ceremonies in the Chinese Culture. It is also used to represent
Confucianism, and it means total righteousness and harmony within yourself and others
This is the Yin-Yang symbol, mainly associated with Daoism. It symbolizes balance in nature between
opposing forces.