Interesting Facts About Confucianism

For starters, an interesting quote I found on Confucianism is similar to one found in the Bible, which says to 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you..' Confucianism puts it similarly by saying: 'Do not do to others what you would have them not do to you..'

But unlike Christianity, Confucianism is not considered a religion. But like Christianity, it's foundations are allegorically interpreted.

Confucianism was developed in China by Master Kong in 551-479 BC, who was given the name Confucius by Jesuit missionaries who were visiting there. 

However, the fundamental principles of Confucianism began before his birth, during the Zhou Dynasty.

At that time, the ideas of respect and the well-being of others were prevalent, but there was also an emphasis on spiritual matters - explicitly, the goodness of the divine and the mandate to rule given to those in power. 

These ideas were meant to unite the people, create stability and prevent rebellion.

Confucius believed his philosophy was also a route toward a civil society. 

However, he shifted attention away from ruling authorities, the divine or one's future after death, focusing instead on the importance of daily life and human interactions. 

This new, refined version of the philosophy did not wholly take root until the next dynasty, the Han (140-87 BC). It is the Confucianism that many people are familiar with today.

1. What do you like about Confucianism?
2. What separates Confucianism from a religion?
3. Religion or philosophy, which one do you personally see Confucianism as?