CONFUCIANISM: MAN, NATURE, AND HEAVEN

In Confucianism, man stands between Earth and Heaven. Nature provides sustenance for life and teaches us about change and permanence. Change is constant. The day turns into night and vice versa. The tide goes in and out. The seasons come and go. Countless changes in topography come about due to erosion, earthquakes, and the activity of volcanoes pouring lava over earth and sea. Too much rain produces the swelling of rivers and the flooding of valleys. Lightning causes forest fires. Tornadoes and hurricanes inflict havoc on those in their path. Still, all this is nothing more than nature renewing and transforming itself, resulting in the preservation of the resources we need to survive. Nature teaches us “...a lesson in the enduring pattern of transformation: regularity, balance, and harmony” (Wei-ming, 1993, p.145).

The recognition of the grandeur of Earth and its efficacy in filling our needs are enough for Confucians to consider nature sacred. They show reverence for the natural system by following its example, in other words, by following a methodical and well-balanced life-style.

Many people consider Confucianism not a religion but a system of ethics that aims to improve the conduct of human beings. Doing so brings harmony to the family, and peace and order to the nation. Many Buddhists and Taoists follow Confucian teachings, so apparently these are compatible add-ons to their own religious views. Supporting the view that Confucianism is not a religion is the fact that they do not worship a God as Christians, Muslims, and Jews do. However, and surprisingly, there is a belief in the omniscience and omnipresence of Heaven. Heaven knows it all, and Heaven is present everywhere.

Heaven was the creating power of Earth, and Heaven continues to govern and rule over Earth. To follow the Way of Heaven, one does not have to leave one’s family or community. Everything one does to cultivate the self and to nurture relationships with the family, the community, and the state has repercussions that reach the highest spheres of Heaven.

A person pleases Heaven by observing proper conduct and leading a virtuous life. Obedience to Heaven brings prosperity and well-being, disobedience brings annihilation. This applies to everyone, including the rulers of nations. Some historians do credit debauchery and a lack of virtuosity in general for the downfall and overthrow of a few Chinese dynasties. Call it Heaven or call it natural causes. The internal weakening of a ruling class is the opportunity enemies seize to take over.

What a great concept, virtuosity in the governed as well as in those who govern. If only everyone could apply ertself*.

*ertself is a gender-neutral article. Instead of saying, “if only everyone could apply himself or herself,” I say, “if only everyone could apply ertself.”

Bibliography: Wei-ming, T. (1993). Confucianism. In Arvind Sharma (Ed.) Our Religions (pp.141-227). New York: Harper Collins Publishers.