CONFUCIUS DAY – September 29, 2022, history significance why we celebrate
Confucius Day is on September 29 and we’re looking forward to celebrating it by reflecting on the teachings of the great philosopher, distinguished teacher, and respected scholar. Today, Confucius is respected far beyond China where he was born, and notable figures around the world cite his teachings and philosophies as having a significant influence on their lives for over 2,500 years.
History of Confucius Day
Considered to be China’s most famous teacher, Confucius was born at the end of the Spring and Autumn Period, which ranges from 770-481 BC. With the belief that he could set the world right, Confucius went on a long journey of self exile to find a government in which to serve, but he never found one.
During much of his life, he took on disciples who sat under his teaching and grew in knowledge and insight. This philosopher and teacher had significant influence on Chinese culture and society, not only in his time but also going forward.
His philosophical teachings are named after him, called Confucianism, and they encapsulate virtues like morality, justice, kindness, humility, sincerity and correctness in social relationships.
Confucius authored the Five Classics, encouraging students in topics such as music, culture, philosophy, poetry, politics, and ethics. Through his teachings and guidance, he left a legacy of rules and practices which were organized by his students into selected sayings (Analects). His students also continued to run his school of philosophy even after he died.
Celebrated on the anniversary of Confucius’ birth, which is September 28, Confucius Day offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the pursuit of education and knowledge.
Because of his status as a teacher, whose only requirement to take a student was that he was eager to learn, this day is also celebrated as Teacher’s Day in China and Taiwan.
CONFUCIUS DAY TIMELINE
551 B.C.
A Sage is Born
Confucius is born in Qufu, China, on September 28.
479 B.C.
The Exit of an Icon
Confucius dies on November 21, a year after the demise of his son, Tzu-lu.
50 B.C.
Handwritten Analects
Confucius’s followers pen handwritten analects, or “Selected Sayings,” containing the teachings and ideas of Confucius.
2006
First Birthday in Hong Kong
Hong Kong officially commences celebrating the birth date of Confucius.
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5 CAPTIVATING FACTS ABOUT CONFUCIUS
Confucius’s famous sayings
Confucius taught many philosophies, and 499 of his famous sayings are known around the world today.
‘Qui’ means ‘hill’
Confucius’s given name of ‘Qui’ means ‘hill’ because he was born with a bump on his head.
“Analects of Confucius”
The “Lun-Yu” or “Analects of Confucius” detailing the teachings of Confucius were compiled by his followers after his death.
Confucius’ favorite music
Confucius loved shao, a type of ancient music, so much that at first listen, he commented, “I never imagined that music could be this beautiful!”
Confucius and humaneness
Among many of Confucius’ teachings, was humaneness, which he summarized as: “Do not impose on others what you do not want [others to impose on you].”
How to Celebrate Confucius Day
Confucius Day comes with many opportunities for enjoying the day and paying homage to its namesake. Consider some of these ideas for celebrating:
Read Confucius’ Writings
Spending some time studying the writings of and quotes by Confucius is a super way to celebrate Confucius Day. But beware: these writings are deep and are not a quick read. In fact, reading and pondering just one quote slowly is probably a better way to absorb and understand it than trying to amass large amounts of knowledge from his body of work.
Visit China
What could be a better time to enjoy the beauty and cultural influences of China than for Confucius Day? The birthplace of this famous teacher is in Qufu (Shandong), China, where the grand festivities begin at 4am!
Traditional costumes, musical performances, playing of ancient instruments, dancing, and other activities take place at the Confucius Temple in Qufu. Rituals are practiced at the temple and Thousands of people participate and street stalls are filled with food for everyone to enjoy.
Learn Mandarin
Fancy trying a new language? Why not Chinese? In honor of Confucius Day and his native land, it might be a great idea to try learning a few words of this language that is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world!
