Comparing Buddhims, Taoism, and Confucianism Essay

“It is often said that, aside from the impact of Marxism on twentieth-century China, the only other time when the Chinese looked beyond their own borders for intellectual sustenance was during the period when Buddhism was absorbed from India” (LaFleur 23). Why did this religion appeal to the Chinese when they disregarded so many other external influences? After all, being tied to the rest of the world by the Silk Road meant they were constantly inundated with novel concepts from far and wide. The answer must lie in how Buddhism interacted with the other faiths already established in the country, namely Confucianism and Daoism (sometimes spelled Taoism). While at first glance it may appear that Confucian China would be the last place

During ancient China, there were two main religions. The two religions were Confucianism and Daoism. Both of these religions did not entirely agree with each other. However, people believed in one or the other, or parts of each. Both of the religions were important to the country of China.

Confucianism and Taoism are some of the major religions in China. They have greatly influenced the culture of the Chinese people as well as their world view. The connection between the two religions has influenced many people over time. It can also be said that when the principles of both philosophies are put together, the outcome is a well-rounded person. The following is a discussion of the principles and philosophies behind these two religions as well as how the two religions interact and connect to influence an individual.

Although these are three distinct religions, they are all a representation of Chinese culture. In this sense:

Buddhism in a religion for over 200 million people around the entire world. The word actually started from “budhi” which meant to be awaken. For so many people Buddhism go past religion to a way of life. Many say it can be a way to lead a moral life, to gain wisdom and understanding, and also be mindful and aware of thoughts and actions. The essentials of Buddhism revolve around the four noble truths.

Confucianism and Taoism are two well known philosophies from China. Created by Confucius and Lao-tzu, these ideas have developed side by side for more than 2,000 years. Throughout history, these two frames of mind have guided large regions of the world at different times. In American society, these two ideologies would produce very different results should they be implemented. Although they do have certain similarities, Confucianism’s values of Filial Piety and Humaneness would be very beneficial to American society while Taoism’s principals of inaction and individualized independence would be detrimental.

Buddhism is a religion that is practiced by millions of people across the world. It is a religion that heavily focuses on a variety of traditions, beliefs, and spiritual practices that are based on the teachings of the Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama. Periodically viewed as a philosophy or a religion, the teaching of Confucius also known as Confucianism, is concerned with primarily ethnical principles; the way of life. Buddhism and Confucianism are both spiritual beliefs that sought ways to end peoples suffering across the world. For those that practice the Buddhist faith or that of Confucius can see many of the similarities and differences that both these practices share. To understand the similarities and differences one needs to be exposed to the pathways of Confucianism and Buddhism.

Confucianism and Daoism (also called Taoism) are two of the main “religions” in China. Each represents a different “way” to live life in balance and harmony.

Buddhism is a religion and philosophy based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. It is the oldest and fourth largest religion in the world with around 500 million followers. Buddhism focuses on teaching people how to come to terms with and end the suffering of themselves and others by cutting out greed, hatred, and ignorance from their lives. Unlike most major world religions, Buddhism does not revolve around worshiping a god or divine creator, instead the focus of Buddhism is living one 's best life and transforming the lives of others. The ultimate goal of Buddhism is to reach Enlightenment and upon death achieve Nirvana, the liberation of pain and suffering. For Buddhists, it is the individual’s responsibility to find his or her own path to enlightenment; the principles of Buddhism are seen more as guidelines than rules.

In this essay, two world religions will be compared to see how similar and/or how different they are; these two religions are Confucianism and Buddhism. Confucianism speaks about the wise thoughts that Confucius came across throughout his life. Buddhism speaks about how to acquire great knowledge throughout life. Confucianism was founded by a Chinese man, but Buddhism was founded by an Indian man. These quick comparisons show how the religions differ, but more detailed comparisons will be seen throughout the essay.

4. Compare and contrast Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. How are they similar? How are they different?

Religion is unique in several different ways, but each religion has the same core values and guidelines that intertwine with one another. However, I do agree Confucius and Buddha are indeed incredibly comparable. Confucius and Buddha encouraged, believed, and aspired deeply to share their teachings. Although, Confucius struggled more than Buddha to spread his teachings, Confucius’ main goal of humanity still thrives in China’s civilization. On the other hand, Buddha’s message of trying to end suffering and preserve humanity was spread quickly and used effectively.

As for the early Chinese, the fact that Taoist philosophy dictates the all beings are inherently good and come from the Tao, we are all part of the Tao and all our actions and inaction affect all other beings and thus all beings should align with the Tao and thus, by virtue of Wu wei (no action) act in strict accord with the Tao in it's infinity De (power; virtue; integrity) we become complete and are enlightened. IF you substitute Buddha mind or Dharma for Tao, you have a fair definition of Buddhist philosophy as well. So, it's hard to argue that the two do not share similar understandings.

Buddhism is one of the largest religions in the world that started in India. Later spreading to China,Burma,Japan , Tibet and other parts of southeast Asia. Buddhism is a religion that

Most ancient philosophical ideas developed in the ancient Chinese empires are believed to have their roots from Confucius. Confucianism was a simple way of life propagated by Confucius around the fifth and sixth century BC. Often perceived as a religion and other times as philosophy, it is conceivably best unspoken as a comprehensive humanism that neither slights nor denies heaven. The Chinese populaces have devotedly observed Confucianism for nearly two millennia. It has become an implicit part of their culture. However, there seem to be a cod division among its proponents holding contrasting perspectives and understanding with respect to it. The central focus of this presentation is to address the questions whether Confucianism is a religion or a philosophy or it encompasses both.