Each school of thought or religion has unique beliefs in a multicultural world. Confucianism, a dominant ideology of ancient China, originated from the State of Lu and has been passed down for thousands of years. It emphasizes ethics, morality, and social order.
In the Confucian system of thought, meanings of human life are interpreted in the context of social relations and responsibilities.
Therefore, Confucian beliefs are not only a requirement for personal cultivation but also a contribution to social harmony and human civilization.
The core values of these beliefs also serve as a guide to modern life, providing valuable guidelines for building a harmonious society.
The Core of Confucian Beliefs
In the deep cultural traditions, the 11 values emphasized by Confucianism, Ren (Chinese: 仁; English: benevolence), Yi (义; righteousness), Li (礼; propriety), Zhi (智; wisdom), Xin ( 信; faithfulness), Yong (勇; bravery), Shu ( 恕; forgiveness), Cheng (诚; sincerity), Zhong (忠; loyalty), Xiao (孝; filial piety) and Ti (悌; fraternal duty), form the core of Confucian beliefs.
They lay a foundation for Confucian ethics, support individuals’ pursuit of excellence in interpersonal and social interactions, and construct an orderly society.
Ren (仁)
Treat people with kindness and love.
In our interactions with others, we need to understand their feelings and needs as much as possible, help them with kindness and tolerance, and be positive.
Yi (义)
Deal with the affairs of the world with justice.
Yi demands that we abide by morality and fairness in the face of worldly affairs. Whatever situation we face, we should not be driven by selfish desires.
Yi also has a sense of responsibility and adherence to social justice and order.
Li (礼)
Discipline speech and behaviors according to Li’s rules.
It means that in our daily lives, we should follow the social norms of etiquette and show our cultivation with polite and decent words and behaviors.
Observing etiquette can create a harmonious social atmosphere and promote friendly interaction.
Zhi (智)
Dispel confusion with wisdom.
When faced with complex problems, we should analyze the contexts to find solutions with reason and Zhi.
Xin (信)
Build a personality with honesty and trustworthiness.
In dealings with others, we must be honest, keep our promises, and earn the trust and respect of others by being faithful.
Yong (勇)
It means that we should face difficulties and challenges with courage and determination.
Yong is not to act on impulse but to take responsibility and face challenges based on rational thought.
Shu (恕)
Resolve conflicts with forgiveness.
It shows that we need to understand and tolerate others’ faults when offended for better and more harmonious relationships.
Cheng (诚)
Treat people with a sincere heart.
If we want to win the trust and friendship of others, we should be sincere instead of hypocritical or pretentious when getting along with others.
Zhong (忠)
Take duties and missions with loyalty.
Whatever our position or role is, we must be dedicated and loyal to others, a team, an organization, or a country.
Xiao (孝)
Respect and care for parents with filial piety.
Xiao is about material provision, spiritual care, and companionship. It helps us earn the warmth of family and the power of affection.
Ti (悌)
Treat your siblings with love.
It suggests that we should care for and respect our brothers and sisters.
Siblings should support each other and work together to create a warm and harmonious family atmosphere.
In short, these virtues and the related code of conduct form the core of Confucian beliefs. If everyone can incorporate these virtues into their words and behavior in daily life, they will enhance their moral integrity and contribute to social development.