Confusion With Confucianism Summary

Confusion with Confucianism For many, the initial thoughts that arise when thinking about religion are of gods and spirits, but can practices, such as Confucianism, that lack these components still be classified as religious? Religion is a difficult word to define and many scholars have opposing opinions on this matter. Anthropologist Clifford Geertz created a definition, accepted by some and rejected by others, that can be used to determine if something can be included in this classification. Confucianism is a religion when examined under the criterion of Geertz’ working definition which states that “religion is (1) a system of symbols which acts to (2) establish powerful, pervasive, and long-lasting moods and motivation in men by (3) formulating
Geertz’ definition, while encompassing these beliefs as religious, does not specifically state that without these theories a practice cannot be considered a religion. Geertz did not concern himself with subjective opinions but rather focused his attention on how these opinions function in reality. In a comparison of Christianity, an accepted religion, and Confucianism, a debated religion, there are shared qualities. Confucius and Jesus both emphasize the importance of teaching. Confucius is not worshipped by Confucians like Jesus is worshipped by Christians, but they both have an authoritative presence. Christianity and Confucianism demonstrate their shared “lead by example” ideal when the Analects say, “go before the people with your example, and be laborious in their affairs” and when the Bible says, “let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (Confucius, 500 BCE; 1 Timothy 4:12). Although their teachings are inherently different with Christians having a deeper focus on future goals of afterlife and Confucians focusing on the present, Geertz’ definition can identify the dictating presence these religions have in a follower’s everyday