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Society and Beliefs^285
Kong Fuzi (“Master Kong”), known as Confucius to
Western cultures, was a wise man who lived in China
from 551 to 479 BCE. His teachings focused on the
proper relationships between people, including respect
for one’s parents and ancestors, and the creation of a
harmonious society based on virtue.
Followers of Daosim (or Taoism), another Chinese
religion, believe that humans should live in harmony
with the universe. Dao (“the way”) is the force that keeps
the universe balanced and ordered. The best way to act
or think is by following wuwei, or effortless action.
WHAT IS QI?
The principle of Qi lies at the root of Chinese life and
belief. It is the vital substance that makes up the
Universe and is composed of two complementary
energy forces: yin and yang. The Chinese believe that
Qi runs through energy lines in our bodies and that
when these lines are blocked, ill health results.
Acupuncture uses needles to unblock them.WHO FOUNDED DAOISM?
Laozi (“the old master”), who lived in China in the 6th
century BCE, wrote the Daode Jing, whose teachings
form the cornerstone of Daoism. According to
tradition, Laozi served as archivist in the royal court
and knew Confucius. When Laozi decided to go on a
spiritual pilgrimage, he was not allowed to leave
China until he had written down all his teachings.WHAT ARE THE FIVE CLASSICS?
Confucianism consists of five classic
texts – History, Poetry, Rituals,
Seasons, and the I Ching, or Book of
Changes. The I Ching helps people cope
with uncertainty by offering them the
chance to predict the future.DO PEOPLE WORSHIP CONFUCIUS?
Kong Fuzi made no claim to holiness, and taught that
living a good life is its own reward. After his death,
his teachings were developed by his followers and
spread to Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. His followers
worship his soul as
a great ancestor.
4 LAOZI ON A BUFFALO
There are several
legends about the
life of Laozi, but very
little is known of him
for certain. He is said
to have travelled around
China on the back of
a water buffalo.1 YIN AND YANG
The Daoist Universe is made up
of two opposite but balancing
forces. Yin is female, dark,
fluid, and low energy.
Yang is male, fiery,
solid, and high energy.
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CONFUCIUS 3
The writings of Confucius were
originally intended as advice for
the rulers of China. One of his
most famous lines was: “Rule by
the power of moral example.”4 CONFUCIAN TEMPLE
Although Confucians do not
worship gods, they honour
their ancestors in temples,
like this one in Taiwan.Confucianism
Daoism
Confucius carries
the five classic
scrollsLaozi carries a
scroll of the
Daode JingDaoism
Confucianism