Ancient Chinese religions and beliefs were a complex blend of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and lastly indigenous folk religions. These were not seen as separate, but rather as complementary. Core concepts include ancestor veneration, the concept of Heaven (Tian), the balance of opposing forces (yin and yang), and a belief in the universal energy of qi.
Ancient Chinese Religions
Core Beliefs and Concepts
Firstly, a Tian or Heaven, a supreme, transcendent cosmic force or an impersonal divine power that embodies the moral order of the universe. The ruler’s legitimacy was tied to the Mandate of Heaven, which required them to govern virtuously.
Secondly, Qi, the vital breath or substance from which all things in the universe are made. This included inanimate matter, living beings, and spirits.
Thirdly, Yin and Yang which denote two complementary and opposing forces (dark/light, passive/active, feminine/masculine) whose dynamic balance creates and sustains cosmic harmony and order.
Fourthly, Ancestor Veneration. This is a cornerstone practice based on the belief that deceased family members’ spirits reside in a spiritual realm and can influence the living. Rituals and offerings were (and are) performed to honor them, ensure their blessings, and maintain family continuity.
Additionally, Bao Ying or moral reciprocity – the idea that good actions bring good fortune. And bad actions lead to misfortune, forming a moral framework for behaviour.
And lastly, polytheism and spirits: A pantheon of gods (shen) and spirits (gui) related to nature (mountains, rivers), household life, and deified historical figures.
Major Traditions
- Confucianism: Founded by Confucius (c. 551–479 BCE). It is a system of ethical and social philosophy that emphasizes morality, social harmony, proper conduct (li), humaneness (ren), and filial piety (xiao). Consequently, this resulted in a moral and political foundation for Chinese society and governance.
- Taoism (Daoism): Attributed to Laozi and the Daodejing. This tradition emphasises living in harmony with the Tao (the Way), the natural, spontaneous, and eternal order of the universe. Key concepts include wu wei (non-action or effortless action) and naturalism. In fact, Taoism influences traditional Chinese medicine, art, and a holistic view of life.
- Buddhism: Introduced from India around the 1st century CE, Buddhism flourished and merged with native beliefs, offering a framework for the afterlife, karma, and the possibility of achieving enlightenment (nirvana).
- Chinese Folk Religion: An overarching, syncretic tradition that blends elements from the other “Three Teachings” and older animistic and shamanistic beliefs. This particularly involved the worship of local deities, fortune-telling, and practices like feng shui (arranging objects for cosmic harmony).
Synthesis of beliefs
The “three pillars” of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism were not always separate but were often intertwined in people’s lives. Moreover, it was not uncommon for individuals to participate in practices from all three traditions, with distinctions sometimes blurring. For instance, the Confucian emphasis on ancestor veneration was incorporated into Buddhist and Taoist festivals. As can be seen, this syncretism allowed for a flexible and resilient religious landscape that could absorb new ideas and adapt to changing times.
We have a few books on world religions which the children used to obtain a quick outline of each:
Buddha for Kids: A Children Biography Coloring Book
Who Was Confucius? Ancient China Book for Kids Children’s Ancient History
After the children had read all the books, I asked them some questions orally. This helps to check for understanding. I then gave them 12 or so pictures and some card, each piece labelled with one of the religions. They needed to match the pictures to the religions to create a collage type note page:
Ancient Chinese Religions and the Golden Rule
The Golden Rule is a moral principle stating, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. It’s a guideline for treating others with kindness, fairness, and respect, as the actions you take towards others should be ones you would find acceptable if they were done to you. This concept appears in many religions and cultures globally and encourages empathy and consideration for others’ feelings and well-being.
Core Principles
- Reciprocity: The rule is based on the idea of reciprocity, meaning you should reciprocate the way you wish to be treated.
- Empathy: It requires you to imagine yourself in another person’s situation to understand how they might feel if you treat them poorly, such as through bullying or cruelty.
- Universal guideline: The principle is meant to promote fairness, equality, and respect for everyone, encouraging you to avoid actions that would cause hurt or suffering.
Origin and Variations
The Golden Rule has appeared independently in many different religions, moral systems, and cultures throughout history. For example, in the New Testament, it is famously stated in the Gospel of Matthew: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you”. It can also be found in other religious and philosophical texts, including the Didachē and the writings of Hillel the Elder.
Platinum Rule: Some versions, like the “Platinum Rule,” suggest going a step further. For example, by treating others as they would want to be treated, thus accounting for personal differences.
Limitations and Considerations
The rule’s application can be complex due to cultural and personal sensitivities, as not everyone wants to be treated the same way. The rule is not always absolute and can be misused. For example, if you would love to receive a lot of money, it doesn’t mean you should give away all your money to others. It’s important to balance the Golden Rule with other principles, such as respecting boundaries or considering that some individuals may not be receptive to certain actions.
Did you know that each religion has its own form of the ‘Golden Rule’? I had the children read each “Golden Rules” below and compare and contrast the wording. How similar is the advice? What is different? Which version(s) “speak” in a compelling way to you? Why? We simply discussed this.
- From Confucianism
Never do to others what you would not like them to do to you. - From Buddhism
Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful. - From Taoism
Regard your neighbour’s gain as your own gain, and your neighbour’s loss as your own loss.
Chinese Meal
Our Chinese meal this week was crispy shredded duck and pancakes:
In addition to learning about ancient Chinese Religions we have also learnt about African religions and Mesopotamian religions.
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