The concept of Chinese philosophy, Confucianism, and how to utilize the teachings to become better Christians.
The correlation between tradition and philosophy consists of interpretation and adaptation that relate to an individual’s ethics. One of the most morally based ethics originates from Asia as “Chinese Ethics,” with one of the most infamous being “Confucianism.”
Founded by Chinese philosopher Confucius, the teachings of Confucianism include the ethics and virtues of humaneness (ren/仁), righteousness (yi/義), propriety (li/禮), wisdom (zhi/智), and sincerity (xin/信). The concept of Confucianism is often associated with its ethical and moral conduct that contributes to living a Christian life.
What makes the morality of Confucianism unique is its emphasis on the connection between social hierarchy and harmony. Below is a quote from Mengzi, regarding King Hui of Liung’s question on how to make the states profitable.
“Why must you mention the word ‘profit’ (he bi yue li/ 何必曰利)? All that matters is that there should be ren and yi,” Mencius wrote.
The concepts of humaneness and righteousness in Confucianism are quintessential to the art of this philosophy.
Humaneness (ren) is considered the highest Confucian virtue, as it embodies the essence of being human. The deep understanding and activation of one’s inherent goodness within human inactions contributes to the meaning of ren, which is “loving people” or “caring for others.” Utilization of empathy and compassion is central to ren, as it offers the ability to put oneself in another’s position, aligning with the golden rule: What you would not want for yourself, do not do to others.
Righteousness (yi) represents a more ethically profound obligation that entails doing what is right because it’s the right thing to do, rather than for any personal gain. In addition to this principle, the act of incorporating yi requires wisdom (zhi) as the concept of Confucianism comes full circle.
With these two crucial concepts explained, the association between the ancient tradition and Christian beliefs is intertwined.
For instance, Confucianism reinforces the Christian values of family reverence and humane treatment of others. Family reverence is present in the emphasis on respecting authority, such as parents and elders, which relates to the fifth commandment of honoring your mother and father. In addition to this, ren and yi contribute to Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor as yourself.”
To dive deeper into the connection between Confucianism and Christianity, Azusa Pacific University’s Honors College professor Rico Vitz, PhD, shares his thoughts on the correlation.
“Christians who reflect on Confucian teachings about filial piety have gained a richer understanding of how to observe the biblical commandment to honor their fathers and mothers,” Vitz said. “Christians have enriched their understanding of how to maintain a ‘rule of prayer’ by reflecting on Confucian teachings about rituals—that is, systematic practices that are designed to help people cultivate virtue, in accordance with the Way of Heaven.”
Vitz’s explanation of Christianity and Confucianism offers respectful and utopian aspirations on how to interact with others and one’s life in Heaven.
The correlation between Christianity and this Eastern tradition highlights ethical principles and spiritual similarities, which provide individuals with unique ways of living life.
The concept of Heaven in Confucianism is revealed through human nature and the diligent performance of one’s duties. “The Way of Heaven” is described as the pattern or order discernible in the universe. It is a principle that individuals can contemplate to achieve harmony and self-transformation.
When used to become better Christians, the teachings and ethics of Confucianism become valuable to living as disciples of Jesus.