Origins, Beliefs, Practices, Holy Texts, Sacred Places.
Long regarded as a source of profound and universal teachings, Confucianism has made a significant contribution to the moral, philosophical and spiritual history of humankind. For more than two thousand years, its ethical code - with its firm emphasis on the family, social order and self-discipline - has sustained Chinese civilisation and shaped the people and history of Asia.
Confucianism has given rise to such concepts as filial piety, "humaneness" (ren) and harmony between human beings and the cosmos. Today, the teachings of Confucius continue to exert a potent influence on the hearts and minds of the people of East Asia and offer insight into values of community and mutual responsibility so often lacking in the modern world.
This concise, illustrated volume is an accessible introduction to the key themes of Confucianism - the life of Confucius and his teachings, ritual and ceremony, art and architecture, sacred writings, death and the afterlife, the estate, the family and the individual. Providing a unique distillation of this ancient and compelling tradition, the book traces the course of Confucianism, from its origins in ancient China to its place in society today.
Also included in the volume are special documentary sections presenting extracts from and summaries of key texts and other invaluable reference material designed to illuminate central features of Confucianism.
