Ancient china religion ducksters

Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism are considered the “three pillars” of ancient Chinese society. As philosophies and religions, they not only influenced spirituality, but also government, science, the arts, and social structure.

Though their specific beliefs and teachings have occasionally been at odds with each other, there has been much room for overlap. Instead of one tradition taking over and pushing the others out, the three philosophies have influenced society alongside each other, changed each other, and at times blended together.

Ancient china religion ducksters

Understanding the unique interplay between these three traditions gives great insight into ancient Chinese society, as well as modern times.

Confucianism

Though closer to a philosophy than a true religion, Confucianism was a way of life for ancient Chinese people, and it continues to influence Chinese culture today.

The founder of Confucianism, named Confucius, lived from 551 to 479 B.C.E. He was a philosophe