Religion And Confucianism: The Definition Of Religion

The definition of religion has long been debated. Many argue what it means to be considered one, and consequently there is not a unified meaning of the word religion. It seems to be a matter of preference. Some think it is an ultimate transformation while others think it is the worshipping of what is sacred to them. However, I feel that no matter how one slices their own definition of religion, they cannot categorize Confucianism as such. Rather, I feel that it fits under the category of an ethical system. It was built on non-religious foundations, it lacks some of the most common aspects of all known religions, and its teachers and followers have even separated themselves from the term of religion. In order to understand the reasoning of
It also seems the when one compares Confucianism with them, they find a serious lack of these like traits. The foundation of almost every religion starts with a deity. It gives the believers a sense of meaning of how they were created, or why they exist. In Confucianism, there is no mention of a god at any time. Rather than an origin of life, they focus on present life. Another part that is essential to these religions is the idea of religious gatherings. It is a vital aspect for members of most religions to meet up with other believers to praise at a place of worship. It is important to connect with one another. This is not present for Confucianists. It is important for them to focus on bettering themselves. Even though it is important to treat others well, the principals they live by are very self involved. Never do they agglomerate to rejoice with other followers of Confucius’ teachings. The final aspect of almost all world religions is the belief of an afterlife. The believers find comfort in an afterlife, knowing that if they achieve some sort of goal on Earth or do many acts of kindness, they will find peace in an eternal existence after death. In Confucianism, they also believe that it is important to act kind and have good morals. However, instead of doing this to achieve eternal life, the only purpose is to maintain social order. After comparing, it is clear to see that Confucianism does not meet the merit of being a