Later on, Confucians also started practicing 'Jing Zuo', which is meditation through sitting quietly. January 21, 2019. The two philosophies arose in the same period known as Hundred Schools of Thought, which was a period characterized by internal strife and feudal tendencies. This means that there are different things that should be dealt with in a more natural manner. Confucianism also believes that following these set of rules are important to organize society and achieve harmony. Lao Tzu never returned back to civilization after that. The teachings of Taoism and Confucianism cannot be abridged into a few paragraphs as they are rich in valuable and timeless learnings and thoughts. Mandala's are more than just great art, they have deep meaning to certain people. Still, they do share a lot in common. Confucius, or K'ung Futzu, lived at the same time as the Buddha. Confucianism is a misnomer for the tradition that is normally referred as ru jia or simply as ru in china. Mencius also contributed a great part to Confucianism, lived in the Warring States Period (389-305 B.C. The origin of the English word ‘Confucianism’ can be traced back to the Jesuits of the sixteenth century. It was said though that because he was dismayed at society’s lack of goodness, Lao Tzu chose to leave his home in Luoyong to become a recluse. first, explain the difference between Taoism and Confucianism with regard to their different views of nature and human society. Religious reverence is also a part of Confucianism and followers visit temples to pay homage to Confucius, Ti'en (God or Heaven), and perform ancestor worship which has become a vital part of Chinese life. (2) Focus Taoism focuses majorly on nature; Confucianism is focused on improving society. Tao is the standard of right and wrong. The difference between the two is in their philosophies about life. There are many who remain confused between these two philosophies that have almost the status of religions. Shintoism is understandably predominant in Japan; Taoism is popular in China; while Confucianism is important to both China and Korea. • Generally, women were highly respected in Taoism, but the beliefs changed among different schools. This includes the veneration of ancestors. The written teachings were to become his most popular book, the Lun-yü, or Analects. Rituals also include a level of mysticism involving shamanism, divination and street parades with Taoists wearing honor guard costumes, god-image worship and performers portraying being possessed by spirits. ), advocating a policy of the benign government and a philosophy that human beings are good by nature. Differences. Unlike Taoism which does not have a set of moral codes or society structures, Confucianism is focused heavily on social etiquette, rites and rituals, as well as establishing a virtuous government. Next, explain how Taoism has a concept of nature and our place in it that is very different from the view we usually have in the western world today. It was his students who chronicled his ethics and moral teachings after his death in 479 B.C.E. Taoism:to gain harmony with nature Confucianism:to gain harmony with society The goal of Taoism is to gain harmony with the Tao and nature, while Confucianism is to gain harmony with people in society. Taoism on the other hand is free flowing and does not dictate such duties or codes of conduct. Confucianism emphasizes on human conduct over the belief of a God. Lao Tzu is translated either as ‘Old Master’ or ‘Old Boy’. Differences Between Buddhism and Taoism: Similarities between Taoism and Confucianism: Differences between Taoism and While Confucius was said to have been so impressed of Lao Tzu that he described him as: “A dragon riding the winds and clouds in the sky”. philosophy is more about finding the person’s way of life through nature and universe around him. in the State of Lu, known today as Qufu in Shandong Province. Taiwan has Taoism as its main tradition. Both are not only ways of thinking, but ways of life. All rights reserved. This disharmony is reflected in both Confucianism as well as Taoism as both seek to provide solace and a guiding light to people in their lives. • Founder of Confucianism was Kong Qiu (Confucius). Confucianism deals with social matters, while Taoism concerns itself with the search for meaning. January 31, 2019, by Michael Quesada Confucianism's main goal is the attainment of inner harmony with nature. • There is basically no difference between the words Taoism and Daoism and both represent the same age old Chinese religious philosophy. The goal of Taoism is to gain harmony with the Tao and nature, while Confucianism is to gain harmony with people in society. (Smith 60) Two fundamentally different perceptions of God (Brahman) persist. ), a time of feudalism when today's China existed as … Both began as philosophies, each later taking on religious overtones. Taoism was founded by Lao Tzu. And, if followed continuously, they become the inner nature of a person though doing them merely for the sake of doing would not lead to desired results. It was in the 6th century B.C.E. Yet the Hindu acknowledges a "supreme reality" in Brahman. Later in his life, Confucius decided to leave politics to focus on teaching a small number of students. Lao-tzu was unimpressed by the beautiful rob… Both of these philosophies which simultaneously existed shaped the religion, traditions, culture and beliefs of their followers for well over 2,000 years. You'll have to make up your own mind. Although they may represent different ways of thinking and behavior, it is important to note that both beliefs are similar in a way that they focus on man’s self-improvement. The difference between Confucianism and Taoism is that Taoism Means the way and Confucianism is when a son follows he's Father the father and son will have a high ranking in the world Taoism was also a tradition but Confucianism was what a personed believed. With Confucianism, the relationship is limited between one person and another in society, while in Taoism, it extends to the relationship between oneself and nature. He thought that it was possible for men to observe and learn from nature about themselves and those who matter the most to them. Key differences between Taoism and Confucianism Confucianism focuses more on earthly life, while Taoism looks at life beyond this world. Lao Tzu agreed and returned after three days with a small book containing his writings, which were later on titled as Tao Te Ching, the most important text of Taoism. The very fact that most of the early spiritual leaders that followed Taoism were butchers, woodworkers, and other craftsmen is a testimony to this thinking. • Goal of Taoism was to gain balance in life. Taoism has this belief that all of the things that are being done should be done because of nature. The origin of the English word ‘Confucianism’ can be traced back to the Jesuits of the sixteenth century. The main difference between Confucianism and Taoism is in the focus of each philosophy as Confucianism focuses on the society while Taoism focuses on the nature. include a level of mysticism involving shamanism, divination and street parades with Taoists wearing honor guard costumes, god-image worship and performers portraying being possessed by spirits. Taoism and Confucianism are two major theories or rather philosophical systems which emerged in China, and later influenced many countries of East Asia. Confucius believed that rituals brought order in life and that moral standards could be maintained only through observance of rituals. Yoga is a fun, sweat-inducing practice that anyone can do. December 7, 2017, Victoria Jones, Leave a comment. Comments will be approved before showing up. • Chinese New Year, 3 Day Festival of the Dead, Ancestor Day are holidays of Taoism. Generally speaking, whereas Daoism embraces nature and what is natural and spontaneous in human experience, even to the point of dismissing much of China’s advanced culture, learning, and morality, Confucianism regards human social institutions—including the family, the school, the community, and the state—as essential to human flourishing and moral excellence, because they are the only realm in which those achievements… (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Copyright © 2010-2018 Difference Between. Eventually, Lao Tzu worked for the Imperial Archives as head librarian. Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism all emerged in China during the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C. On the first hand, God is personal, and affects physical change in th… Taoism and Confucianism are both regarded as a way of living. While Taoism emphasizes belief in nature and dealing with life in a natural manner, Confucianism is based on human conduct as opposed to religion and belief in God. For example, both Confucianism and Taoism have an aspect of philosophy as well as a religion, but each of them represents different ways of thinking and implementing behavioural codes. While having some elements of religion, the two philosophies appear to contradict each other at first glance. Taoism and Confucianism are considered two of the most influential belief systems in Ancient China. by Michael Quesada Even though they were different many Chinese found both to be compatible with one another and even practiced both at the same time. Filed Under: Religion Tagged With: Buddhism, Confucianism, confucianism and taoism, confucianism definition, Confucius, founder of Confucianism, founder of Taoism, Kung Fu Tse, Lao Tzu, philosophies in China, religions of China, Tao, Taoism, taoism and confucianism, taoism definition, Yin and Yang, Koshal is a graduate in Language Studies with a Master's Degree in Linguistics. But this is misplaced confidence because it simply amounts to worshiping created things rather than … Most people have seen a mandala, but what exactly are they? While Buddhism originated in the Indian subcontinent, Taoism originated in China. Definition of Confucianism. • In Confucianism, women were thought as inferior to men. Michael Quesada In Taoism, followers are encouraged to visit shrines regularly to fulfill their roles within the religion. Promote it. Despite the differences in their origin, they are all ways of life which were followed by a number of people in China in the dynasty era (Berthrong, 2008). They were both believed to have been found around 550 BCE. By Staff Writer Last Updated Apr 8, 2020 5:27:26 AM ET. There are many similarities between the two as well as a few subtle differences. What Is the Difference Between Legalism and Confucianism? But here, in a very simple nutshell, is one way to think of the difference between philosophical Taoism and Confucianism. Taoism is viewed in China as the other way of life. Legend states that Confucius and Lao-tzu did in fact meet to discuss the Imperial Archives. The focus in Confucianism is the basic relationship between human and society. The main difference between Confucianism and Taoism is in the focus of each philosophy as Confucianism focuses on the society while Taoism focuses on the nature. 2) moderation is good. Literary works include The Analects, the Mencius, and the Xunzi. Taoism and Confucianism have lived together in China for well over 2,000 years. Confucianism is represented by Confucius (founder, 551-479 B.C. It teaches to “follow the Tao Way” - Don’t violate it. According to Confucianism, women were to occupy a lower position than men at every level. Though Buddhism continues to be the main religion of China, Confucianism and Taoism are two dominating philosophies in China that are very old, and continuing to be in existence since around 550 BCE. The religious/ceremonial aspect of Taoism has many ritualistic similarities with Christian rituals. Confucianism, on the other hand, does not hold regular practices and rituals, however, followers do believe that participating in rituals serves to unite people and is a way to improve society. Taoism teachings are more vague and liberal, while Confucianism teachings are more defined, with some set of instructions very specific. Similarities between Confucianism and Taoism. It also believes in setting good examples for other to follow, primarily in these five key relationships: Taoism and Confucianism also differ in the way they view different issues which are still relevant up to present day. Thus, Taoists embraced Tai Chi which is a slow and controlled physical exercise to achieve mental stillness. This philosophy is more about finding the person’s way of life through nature and universe around him. by Michael Quesada Both also began as philosophies but later took on a religious slant. The keyword in Confuianism is 礼 Li, the right way of behavior - among people, in the right situation, right time and place. Although the goals of Taoism and Confucianism are similar that they try to place individuals as part of a larger experience, the difference lies on the extent of the relationship. Countless deities, gods, goddesses, and incarnations abound, and are defined in sacred Hindu texts, such as the Regveda, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads. First of all, it could be said that both seek to overcome chaos and cultivate societal peace and harmony. Similarities between Confucianism and Taoism. 500 word minimum. In contrast to Confucianism, Taoism is mainly concerned with the spiritual elements of life, including the nature of the universe. Feng Shui is a system for arranging your surroundings in harmony and balance with the natural world around you. Not very much is known about his life and there are those who believe that he is purely legendary. Taoism and Confucianism are regarded as a way of life, sharing common beliefs about man, society, heaven and the universe. Confucius had a brilliant teaching career due to his mastery of the six arts- ritual, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy and arithmetic, as well as his familiarity with classical traditions including history and poetry. Though some of the tenets of these religions are similar, we will focus on the difference between Taoism and Buddhism. Lao Tzu, the founder of Taoism, was of the view that the only way a man could achieve inner peace and harmony was through his inner spirit. Taoism vs Confucianism Confucianism and Taoism are two of the most popular philosophies or ideals that are being observed, not only by native Asian dwellers, but also by many people around the world. With Confucianism, the relationship is limited between one person and another in society, while in Taoism, it extends to the relationship bet… Also, because natural ways to deal with problems were always considered better than imposed ways. The core belief of Taoism is that there is a natural harmony between heaven and earth, which can be discovered by anyone. Cite Confucianism and Daoism are two of the most influential schools of thought in ancient China. Confucian political theory stresses the importance of justice and … 5 Notable Differences between Taoism and Confucianism, Unlike Lao Tzu, whose life was very vague, Confucius, a politician, teacher, musician, and philosopher born in 551 B.C.E. Which one is better and why is purely a matter of personal opinion based on each individuals' research and life experiences. December 21, 2017, Victoria Jones, Leave a comment. Mastering yourself is true power.”. ", Confucianism: to gain harmony with society. They share common beliefs about man, society, and the universe, although these notions were around long before either philosophy. However, Confucianism gives women a lesser importance in society than men. Vinegar Tasters is a common subject in traditional Chinese religious painting. • Taoism is based on the nature and emphasizes on natural ways to deal with life. Religious reverence is also a part of Confucianism and followers visit temples to pay homage to Confucius, Ti'en (God or Heaven), and perform ancestor worship which has become a vital part of Chinese life. Granted, they are entirely different systems; nevertheless, Daoism concentrates on reconciliation between oneself and the nature of reality, while Confucianism focuses on the proper or right relationships between people. Confucius's followers, like those of Lao‐tzu, the founder of Taoism, saw him as a moral teacher and wise man—not a religious god, prophet, or leader. "Not to teach a man who can be taught, is to waste a man; to teach a man who cannot be taught, is a waste of words. 1) treat others as you would be treated. These notable differences are the reasons why others may consider Taoism and Confucianism polar opposites. Confucianism lays stress on ethics. The history and belief system as well as the likes and dislike of Taoism and Confucianism are interesting to learn. The Fundamental Beliefs: How is Taoism Different from Buddhism. The main difference between these two founders is that one may or may not have existed, while the other is known to have lived. In a sense, they can be considered as opposite sides of the same coin. Terms of Use and Privacy Policy: Legal. with each of these stages, there are specific practices that are followed. What is Confucianism? in the State of Lu, known today as. Confucianism, on the other hand, does not hold regular practices and rituals, however, followers do believe that participating in rituals serves to unite people and is a way to improve society. This is because Confucianism has been influenced by Taoism. Superficially, Hinduism appears to be a true polytheistic religion. Legalism emphasizes the proscribing of laws in order to ensure public order, whereas Confucianism is more concerned with instilling morality. As he was leaving civilization, he passed through the city gates for the final time and the gatekeeper asked Lao Tzu to write down his parting thoughts. Confucianism is a misnomer for the tradition that is normally referred as ru jia or simply as ru in china. Confucianism aims to achie Also, it was said that Lao Tzu did not agree with looking back on the past saying, “Put away your polite airs and your vain display of fine robes. Buddhism has no god. Like, Taoism is all about rules for the life of an individual, whereas Confucianism concerns the whole society. He was said to have lived the rest of his life somewhere near Tibet, beyond the Great Wall of China. Confucianism became the orthodox ideology in feudal China and, in the long course of history, it drew on Taoism and Buddhism. One thing is clear though that both remain philosophies rather than being full-fledged religions. Confucians also started practicing 'Jing Zuo ', which is a natural harmony between heaven and the universe believe he... Was to gain harmony with nature and society what is a basic difference between confucianism and taoism stages, there are specific practices are... Through nature and emphasizes on natural ways to deal with problems were considered. 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