Religion in China

RELIGION IN CHINAReligion and the Martial Arts

• Polar opposites are interconnected and interdependent in the natural world. Exist in harmony

• Nothing can exist without its opposite.• This concept lies at the foundation of

many disciplines such as science and philosophy, Chinese medicine, martial arts, and religion.

• Examples of natural dualities:• Light and dark• Male and female• Water and fire• Air and earth• NOT good vs. evil

Yin and Yang

TAOISM (DAOISM)• Founded by Lao Tzu in 4th century B.C. • Dao means “the way” or “the path”• Daoism: living life in accordance with a great natural way.• Mainly concerned with health of the human body• Opposite: emphasizes harmony with the natural environment (yin and yang)• Happiness and longevity come from health and harmony with the environment.

Disease and misery follow if you don’t. • Many deities and supernatural beliefs: Jade emperor, Three Celestial Worthies,

the 8 Immortals, gods for every activity and profession (ex; tea industry god).• Believed that long life comes through special foods and potions.

• Alchemists found “tonics” that lead to useful discoveries• Traditional Chinese medicine: herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage

and exercise

Citation: History DocuWatch: Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism in China

• Confucius – 551–478 BC • Mainly concerned with political ideas and social harmony• Opposite: also emphasized self-

cultivation (yin-yang)• Emphasis on self-improvement and

advancement through education. • Assume rightful place in society

according to ability. • The Elderly are very respected

because of experience and wisdom.

• Ancestral worship. Continuing respect

• Filial Piety: remain loyal to parents as their child. Relationship remains intact. Continued interaction.

• Provide continual happiness and well-being.• Reinforces unity of family and

lineage• Non-theistic. Is it really a religion?

CONFUCIANISM

Citation: History DocuWatch: Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism in China

BUDDHISM• Founded in India by Siddhartha Gautama

• Between 600 and 400 B.C. • Arrived in China in 1st century A.D.

• Mainly concerned with psychology and the nature of the mind.• “Life is suffering” that stems from people’s greed, hatred and delusions• Enlightenment comes when you have insight to the true nature of life in

the mind. • Liberates you from delusions and false beliefs that afflict mankind

• Zen school of Buddhism tied closely to meditation.• “Mind is Buddha.” No characteristics. No shape or form.

Citation: History DocuWatch: Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism in China

COMPARE AND CONTRAST

• Kung Fuhttp://dsc.discovery.com/videos/discovery-atlas-china-revealed-kung-fu.html• Founder: Bodhidharma

• Shao Lin Monastary• Developed by Buddhist monks

• Uses:• Meditation• Exercise and fitness• self-defense• Combat

• Hard, external martial art

• Tai Chihttp://dsc.discovery.com/videos/discovery-atlas-china-revealed-tai-chi.html• Uses:

• Exercise and fitness• Breathing exercises• Posture• Enhance flow of qi (life-force)• Boost immune system• Mental and spiritual balance

• Soft, internal martial art

MARTIAL ARTS

• China is officially atheist…

• So why did we just have an entire lesson on religion?

• These religions have had a huge impact on the Chinese culture.

• Family structure

• Respect for elderly

• Healthy lifestyle• Emphasis on education

• Etc…

SUMMING UP…

CITATIONSOpening Slide:

• http://youngpost.wordpress.com/2009/10/20/confucianism-is-not-a-perfect-system/

• http://travel.nationalgeographic.com

• http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=national+geographic+tai+chi&view=detail&id=372A01DC80663693FDF11EBADCF3F88740C73EED&first=0&FORM=IDFRIR

Other slides:

• http://history.docuwat.ch/videos/?alternative=2&channel_id=0&skip=0&subpage=video&video_id=374

WARM UP!

• If China is officially an atheist country, then why is religion important?

• Please provide 2 examples from class discussion.

• Please write 5-7 complete sentences.