Introduction
Confucianism laid the foundation for many of the cultural practices among communities in China. However, there has been a debate about whether it is a religion or a philosophy. On the one hand, it is regarded as an ethical guide to life, while on the other, it is seen as the origin of an earlier religious tradition (Confucianism, 2022). Holistically, its main idea is to promote good moral behavior by avoiding wrong actions towards others. Confucianism shares similarities with faith in many ways; therefore, this essay will discuss why it is classified as a philosophy, the tenets of its beliefs, and the principles guiding its application.
Classification of Confucianism as a Religion
Confucianism is rooted in the study of the past but does not introduce new doctrines to its followers. Therefore, in most cases, it is categorized as a code of ethics rather than a religion (Perkins, 2019). However, scholars of theology, the humanities, and social sciences began to accept it as a faith at the beginning of the twentieth century (Smith, 2013).
It is thus listed as a religious ethic, such as those found in Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Its inclusion is based on the fact that it has historical preconditions necessary for understanding Christianity and Islam (Smith, 2013). Furthermore, as one of the most influential religious philosophies in Chinese history, it emphasizes inner virtue, morality, and respect among people.
Tenets of Confucianism Beliefs
The tenets of Confucian beliefs are the guiding principles for its code of ethics. Firstly, it teaches the importance of rituals and rites as a means of unifying people, thereby acknowledging that humans need to observe them both physically and mentally (Perkins, 2019). According to its norms, individuals should conduct ceremonies collectively as one society to actualize unity among them. It classifies these rites and rituals to include funeral practices, weddings, coming-of-age ceremonies for young men and women, and offerings to ancestors.
Furthermore, Confucianism emphasizes the importance of peace and harmony among people. It thus provides a ladder of associations among people, such as those between master and subject, father and son, siblings, married couples, and friends (Perkins, 2019). In all these relations, the dominant parties are expected to treat the submissive ones with kindness and gentleness, while the latter should respect the former.
Principles Guiding Confucianism
There are six fundamental principles of Confucianism: Li, Hsiao, Yi, Xin, Jen, and Chung. Li postulates that individuals should live dignified lives and respect their families and elders. Hsiao emphasizes the importance of parents loving their children and vice versa.
On the other hand, Yi emphasizes righteousness among people above all else. Xin advocates for being honest with oneself and with others. Jen encourages people to be kind and understanding and not to rush judgment. Lastly, Chung emphasizes the importance of loyalty to family members and the country.
Conclusion
Confucianism emphasizes good moral behavior and ethics, and it remains debated whether it constitutes a religion or a philosophy. However, theological, humanities, and social sciences scholars now accept it as a faith because it has historical preconditions required for comprehending Christianity and Islamism. Lastly, its principles are anchored on respect, love, righteousness, honesty, kindness, understanding, and loyalty, which are core to most religious doctrines.
References
Confucianism. (2022). National Geographic Resource Library.
Perkins, M. (2019). Confucianism beliefs: The four tenets. Learn Religion.
Smith, H. (2013). Chapter 4. Confucianism as a world religion the legitimation of a new Paradigm from the book Confucianism as a world religion. Princeton University Press.