CONFUCIUS DAY 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

We look forward to commemorating Confucius Day on September 29 by reflecting on the teachings of the great philosopher, distinguished teacher, and esteemed scholar. Today, Confucius is revered far beyond China, where he was born, and notable figures throughout the world have cited his teachings and philosophies as having had a profound impact on their lives for over 2,500 years.

The background of CONFUCIUS DAY

Confucius, born Kng Qi and affectionately known as ‘Master Kong,’ is believed to have been born on September 28, 551 B.C., in the 22nd year of Emperor Xiang’s tenure. He was born in the village of Qufu, in the state of Lu, in what is now the Shandong [or Shantung] province of China. According to some historians, Confucius’s father, Shu-liang, was a soldier and nobleman. Confucius’ father perished when he was only three years old, leaving him to grow up in poverty with his widowed mother.

Confucius, unfazed by his changed circumstance and the pervasive ideological crisis of his early years, became an outstanding student-turned-master who devoted his life to bringing about an ideological revolution in his time. Confucius did not intend to establish the first private school in China at the age of 22, but he was surrounded by able-bodied young disciples who revered him and addressed him as’master.’ His earliest disciples were given the names ‘Yan Hui Zigong’ and ‘Zilu’; some of them became noblemen and political administrators later on.

Confucius was appointed Lu’s Grand Minister of Justice when he was in his fifties. Later, he spent his final years as a traveling instructor in China, disseminating his philosophies. Although he lamented that his philosophies did not have the anticipated impact on Chinese culture at the time of his death, his teachings eventually became the official philosophy of the Chinese government, years later. Confucius did not institute a religious order; rather, he emphasized the importance of returning to personal virtues, such as ‘chung’ and’shu’ (equal love of self and others). According to him, these two virtues were the primary components of ‘jen,’ or humanity, which is the foundation of Confucianism.

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DAY OF CONFUCIUS ACTIVITIES

Consider Confucian philosophies.

You could use this opportunity to contemplate on the teachings of Confucius. These include the value of honesty, mutual respect, filial piety, sincerity, temperance, faithfulness, self-discipline, intelligence, and fortitude. Consider how you can employ these concepts to inspire change and improve yourself.

Embark on a journey to China.

If you enjoy sightseeing, you could travel to Qufu (Shandong), Confucius’s birthplace, and witness Confucius Day in China in person. At the massive Confucius Temple in Qufu, the festival begins at 4 a.m. and features musical performances, traditional dances, local costumes, and other cultural ceremonies.

Follow the Confucian diet

In addition to studying Confucian teachings on politics and social ideologies, you could also study and implement his food philosophies. Some of these food philosophies include serving food in small pieces, ingesting only freshly prepared, properly cooked meals, and eating in moderation.

Confucius Day Quotes, Messages and Wishes

5 Entertaining Facts About Confucius

Numerous philosophies were taught by Confucius, and today 499 of his famous sayings are well-known throughout the globe.

The given name ‘Qui’ of Confucius means ‘hill’ because he was born with a bump on his cranium.

Confucius’ disciples compiled the “Lun-Yu” or “Analects of Confucius” detailing his teachings after his demise.

Confucius adored shao, an ancient form of music, so much that upon hearing it for the first time, he exclaimed, “I never imagined music could be this beautiful!”

Humanity was one of the many teachings of Confucius, which he summed up as follows: “Do not impose on others what you do not want [others to impose on you].”

CONFUCIUS DAY DATES