Confucianism- The 5 Relationships, Essay Example

The concept known as Confucianism refers to an ethical way of life on terms of philosophy. The teachings behind Confucianism are often regarded as part of a religious belief. This concept originated from a Chinese philosopher who went by the name Confucius, where the term got its title. Confucius lived from 551 BC – 479 BC. He was heavily regarded in China as an influential politician, teacher, and philosopher. Confucius intended for the concept of Confucianism to serve as an ethical and socio-political standard of life. The Chinese Han Dynasty would later adopt Confucianism as leaning more towards metaphysical as well as cosmological concepts. (Patheos, 2015)

To those whom are familiar with the concept and teachings of Confucianism, it is well known that there are five specific types of relationships found in the ethical standards of Confucianism. These five relationship standards in Confucianism help to better define what the meaning being this way of life represents through a sociological as well as humanistic perspective. (Patheos, 2015)

The first relationship in Confucianism refers to the son of the family being kind, obedient, as well as devoted to his father. This is important because the son’s obedience and discipline serves as a reflection of his father’s teachings and parenting. The second relationship refers to the brothers. The standards in this relationship under Confucianism govern that the elder brothers must be gentle with their younger siblings, while the younger brothers must remain humble in showing respect for their older brothers. This relationship standard shows that the brothers respect each other. The third relationship refers to the righteous actions of the husband as well as obedience in the wife. This relationship standard governs that while the husband acts righteous and faithful to his wife, she will remain obedient and loyal to him. The fourth relationship refers to the elders and juniors of a family. The elders must be treated humanely while the juniors must be granted deference. The fifth and final relationship standard under Confucianism refers to the hierarchy of rulers and ministers. As the rulers must show benevolence, the ministers must remain loyal to their rulers. (Lander, 2015)

The ideal person following the teachings of Confucianism must act in an ethical manner and as a model citizen of society. They must also demonstrate an understanding of the relationship standards in their family’s lives. Today, Confucianism is an influential concept of life in the modern Chinese military and politics. (Lander, 2015) (Patheos, 2015)

References

Lander. (2015, August ). Confucianism- The 5 Relationships. Retrieved from Oriental Philosophy: http://philosophy.lander.edu/oriental/main.html

Patheos. (2015, August). Confucianism. Retrieved from Religion Library: http://www.patheos.com/Library/Confucianism