Confucius was a Chinese philosopher. His teachings, called Confucianism, emphasized personal morality, social order, and government by virtue. Confucius believed that rulers should be ethical and set a good example. He also valued scholarship and the study of classics. Confucianism remains influential in China today.
Confucius, also known as Kong Qui or Kong Fuzi, was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political figure who lived during the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history, around 551–479 BCE. His teachings, which revolved around ethics, morality, and social harmony, have had a profound and lasting influence on Chinese culture and beyond.
CONFUCIANISM
Confucianism is an ethical and philosophical system based on the teachings of Confucius (Kong Fuzi) and developed by his followers. It is one of the most influential philosophical traditions in Chinese history and has profoundly shaped Chinese culture, society, and governance for over two millennia.
Confucius was born in the state of Lu (modern-day Shandong province, China) to a noble but impoverished family. Despite his family’s financial struggles, he received a good education.
Confucius worked in various government positions, including as a clerk, bookkeeper, and eventually as a minor official in the Lu government. He was known for his dedication to learning and his commitment to ethical principles.
CONFUCIANISM
Confucianism emphasizes personal and governmental morality, social relationships, justice, kindness, and sincerity. Confucius believed in filial piety and the importance of family. He advocated for a strong family unit as the basis for a good government.
20 POWERFUL CONFUCIUS QUOTES
“Give a bowl of rice to a man and you will feed him for a day. Teach him how to grow his own rice and you will save his life.” ― Confucius
“The way out is through the door. Why is it that no one will use this method?” ― Confucius
“Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change.” ― Confucius
“It is more shameful to distrust our friends than to be deceived by them.” ― Confucius
“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
― Confucius
“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” ― Confucious
“Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart.” ― Confucius
“He who knows all the answers has not been asked all the questions.” ― Confucius
“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” ― Confucius
“If you make a mistake and do not correct it, this is called a mistake.”
― Confucius
“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.” ― Confucius
INFLUENCE AND LEGACY
Confucianism has profoundly influenced various aspects of Chinese society, including politics, ethics, education, family dynamics, and cultural practices. It has also left a lasting impact on other East Asian countries such as Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Despite undergoing periods of suppression and revival throughout history, Confucianism continues to play a significant role in shaping moral values, social norms, and governance in contemporary East Asian societies.
“The hardest thing of all is to find a black cat in a dark room, especially if there is no cat.” ― Confucius
“We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” ― Confucius
“Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.” ― Confucius
“The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.” ― Confucius
“Study the past if you would define the future.” ― Confucius
“The funniest people are the saddest ones” ― Confucius
“Respect yourself and others will respect you.” ― Confucius
“The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute, the man who does not ask is a fool for life.” ― Confucius
“Silence is a true friend who never betrays.” ― Confucius
