Confucianism and Daoism SAQ Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are the arguments for labeling Confucianism a ‘religion’?
- Ritual practice and ancestral worship: Confucianism includes rites (li) and rituals that honor ancestors and maintain cosmic and social harmony. 2. Fingarette: Secular as Sacred, argues that rituals (li) are acts of reverence, not just social customs.
What are the arguments against labeling Confucianism a ‘religion’?
- No deity or afterlife focus: Confucianism lacks a clear god figure or doctrine of salvation. 2. Primarily ethical and philosophical: It focuses more on social ethics, politics, and education than on supernatural beliefs.
Did Confucius see himself as the founder of Confucianism?
No, Confucius viewed himself as a transmitter of ancient wisdom, preserving and interpreting the traditions of the Zhou Dynasty.
How might a Confucian answer the question, ‘What is my purpose in life?’
To fulfill your role in society through ethical self-cultivation, practicing filial piety, and striving to become a junzi who brings harmony to family and state.
How might a Daoist answer the question, ‘What is my purpose in life?’
To align with the Dao, follow the flow of nature through wuwei (non-interference), and live authentically and spontaneously (ziran).
What are the ‘five relationships’ in Confucianism?
Ruler and subject; Parent and child; Husband and wife; Elder sibling and younger sibling; Friend and friend.
Why are the ‘five relationships’ important in Confucianism?
They emphasize hierarchy, duty, and mutual respect, forming the backbone of social harmony.
How does one become a superior person (junzi) in Confucianism?
Through lifelong self-cultivation, practicing li (ritual propriety) and ren (humaneness).
When and how is Qingming celebrated?
Celebrated in early April (4 or 5), families visit ancestral graves to clean tombstones and give offerings.
How does Qingming embody Confucian values?
It expresses filial piety, which is a key concept of Confucian virtues.
What does it mean to practice alchemy in the context of Daoism?
Efforts to prolong life or attain immortality through external means (elixirs) or internal cultivation (breath control, meditation).
How is it possible for some people to practice both Confucianism and Daoism?
They are often seen as complementary; Confucianism guides social roles and ethics, while Daoism guides inner life and personal well-being. People might follow Confucian values in public while practicing Daoism in private/spiritual life.
Why were people in China attracted to Buddhism?
- Promise of salvation and afterlife: Buddhism offered a vision of rebirth and escape from suffering. 2. Attracted by the art and architecture.
Why were Confucians sometimes critical of Buddhism?
- Neglect of family obligations: Buddhist monastic life clashes with Confucian beliefs of filial piety. 2. Foreign origin: Viewed as incompatible with Chinese values.
