Confucian life in North Alabama
Confucianism, also called Ruism, grew from the teachings of Confucius (Kongzi), the Chinese teacher who lived from 551 to 479 BCE. It is both an ethical philosophy and a living religious tradition across East Asia, shaping family life, education and ritual for millions of people. Confucian societies and temples in the United States are few, and NAWD is ready to list any Confucian group, study circle or cultural association in North Alabama.
Beliefs and teachings
Confucian teaching centers on ren, humaneness or benevolence, and li, ritual propriety. Respect for parents and elders, known as filial piety, is the root of social harmony. The ideal is the junzi, a person of cultivated character who leads by example. The Analects record the sayings of Confucius, and later teachers such as Mencius and Xunzi developed his ideas.
Practice and community
Practice includes honoring ancestors, marking life passages with ritual, lifelong study and service to family and community. Temples hold ceremonies for Confucius and for ancestors, and cultural associations teach the classics, calligraphy and traditional etiquette.
Observances and visiting
The birthday of Confucius is celebrated in late September, and many families honor ancestors at Qingming and the Lunar New Year. Cultural events are generally open to the public. Ask the organizers about customs before attending a ceremony.