Introduction to Chinese Religious Traditions

Take a moment to read the quotation below. What do you think this statement means? In terms of your own study of history, do you agree or disagree with it?

Study the past, if you would divine the future.

While the people of China embraced the Buddhist religion that arrived in the country through the Silk Road, they also developed their own philosophies that would heavily influence the politics of Classical China. One such philosophy was started by the Chinese philosopher, Confucius, who said the quotation above. In fact, historians attiribute many famous quotes to this man, who founded Confucianism. For the remainder of this topic, you will explore the Chinese philosophies of Confucianism and Taoism. All of these religious traditions had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and society. As you delve into the content, take note of these impacts, and describe what they are with a coursemate. By understanding the impacts of these two Chinese philosophies, you will be able to better understand how these compare to the major world religion, Buddhism.

 

Confucianism

In the mid-6th century B.C. (B.C.E.), a philosopher named Confucius observed the political and social strife of his times, and created a set of ideas in an effort to stabilize society. His teachings became the foundation for the Chinese philosophy, Confucianism. In this interactivity, you will learn about the history, beliefs, and modern-day practices of Confucianism. Click the player button to begin.

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Taoism

According to Taoist tradition, the Chinese philosopher Laozi lived during the 6th century B.C. (B.C.E.). Laozi is credited with writing the Tao Te Ching, which translates as The Book of Life or The Book of the Way. In the Tao Te Ching, Laozi composed eighty-one stories which outlined the Tao, or "the way." Instead of setting forth a list of laws or rules for Taoism, the stories of the Tao Te Ching demonstrate the morals and conduct by which people should live. Along with Laozi and other Taoist philosophers, Taoists revere their ancestors. Taoism places a high value on humility and the avoidance of conflict. Observers of Taoism try to live a simple life that is in harmony with nature.

Today, Taoism is one of the five religions recognized in China. Observers of Taoism tend to live in areas that are populated by people of Chinese descent. Those areas include China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and other places where Chinese populations have immigrated.

Early Chinese Civilizations Review - Part 2

Now that you have examined early Chinese religious traditions, review your knowledge in this interactivity. Click the player button to get started.