Confucius

孔子

Spring and Autumn (551-479)

12 Quotes

Biography

Ancient Chinese philosopher and educator, founder of Confucianism

About Confucius

-551 - -479

Biography

Confucius (551-479 BCE), named Qiu with the courtesy name Zhongni, was born in Zou, Lu State (present-day Qufu, Shandong). An ancient Chinese philosopher and educator, he founded Confucianism. Born into a declining noble family, he lost his father early and grew up in poverty. He served as Minister of Justice in Lu State and later traveled among various states for fourteen years to promote his political ideals. In his later years, he returned to Lu State to focus on education and compiling ancient texts. He had three thousand disciples, with seventy-two considered virtuous, profoundly influencing Chinese culture.

Philosophical System

The core of Confucian philosophy is "ren" (benevolence), emphasizing love, ritual propriety, and the doctrine of the mean. He advocated "restraining oneself and returning to propriety" to achieve social harmony through personal cultivation. He proposed the educational concept of "education for all regardless of social class" and emphasized moral edification. Politically, he advocated "rule by virtue," believing rulers should govern through moral example. He emphasized hierarchical order but also proposed that "the people are most important, the state comes next, and the ruler is least important."

Major Works

The Analects (recorded sayings and actions by disciples), and compilation of ancient classics including the Book of Songs, Book of Documents, Book of Rites, I Ching, and Spring and Autumn Annals, known as the "Six Classics." These works became important components of ancient Chinese culture with profound influence on later generations.

Historical Significance

Confucius was one of the greatest philosophers and educators in Chinese history, whose thoughts influenced China's political, cultural, and social development for over two millennia. Confucianism became the mainstream of traditional Chinese culture and influenced the entire East Asian cultural sphere. He pioneered private teaching and laid the foundation for ancient Chinese education. His educational philosophy of "education for all" remains significant today.

Cultural Influence

Confucian thought became the core of traditional Chinese culture, influencing China's political system, educational system, and social ethics for over two millennia. Confucianism spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and other countries, forming the East Asian cultural sphere. Modern China's educational concepts and moral values are still deeply influenced by Confucianism. Hundreds of Confucius Institutes worldwide promote Chinese culture.

Key Concepts

Ren (benevolence), Li (ritual propriety), Yi (righteousness), Zhi (wisdom), Xin (trustworthiness), Zhongyong (doctrine of the mean), Junzi (exemplary person), education for all, self-restraint and return to propriety, rule by virtue