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ECUMENICISM

Chinese Traditional Religions

中國傳統宗教

Harmony with nature, ancestors, and cosmic order through Confucian and Taoist wisdom.

Founded: c. 600 BCE and earlier ~450M adherents Origin: East Asia

"Like water finding its course, the wise follow the natural way, neither forcing nor resisting."

Overview

Chinese Traditional Religions encompass Confucianism, Taoism, and folk practices that have shaped Chinese civilization for millennia. With approximately 400 million practitioners, these interconnected traditions emphasize harmony, virtue, and balance.

Confucianism, founded by Confucius (551-479 BCE), focuses on ethics, social harmony, and proper relationships. Taoism, attributed to Laozi, emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the Way) - the fundamental force underlying the universe. Folk religion includes ancestor veneration and local deities.

These traditions teach that humans can cultivate virtue, that balance (yin-yang) is essential, and that wisdom comes from understanding nature's patterns.

Wisdom & Perspectives

Explore Chinese Traditional Religions's approach to key life themes

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