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Essence of World Religions
Confucianism
Founded Confucianism began 2,500 years ago in China. Founder Supreme Sage K’ung fu tsu (Confucius) and Second Sage Meng tzu (Mencius). Major Scriptures The Analects, Doctrine of the Mean, Great Learning, and writing of Mencius are the sacred books of Confucianism. The Analects contain the basic teachings and was compiled by the students of Confucius after his death. Because it was not written as a systematic philosophy, it contains frequent contradictions and many of the philosophical doctrines are ambiguous.
Sects There are no formal sects within Confucianism. Followers are free to profess other religions yet still be Confucians.
Adherents Estimated at 350 million, mostly in China, Japan, Burma and Thailand.
Goals The primary goal of Confucianism is to create true nobility through proper education and the inculcation of all the virtues. It is described as the return to the way of one's ancestors, and the
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