in Ngugi’s A Grain Of Wheat, and in Silko’s Ceremony

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China’s Historic Teachings of Buddhism and Confucianism
Since the beginning of time the country of China, now known as the People's Republic of China has always been a remarkable civilization from its technologies to its philosophies. It has long been a host to a variety of fused religion/philosophical based traditions. Both the religions of Buddhism and Confucianism make up two of the three Chinese historic teachings. It is from these teachings which have had a significant role in shaping their culture, along with influencing other followers to the distance of the far west. Elements of these two belief systems are often incorporated into the traditional folk religions. For the purpose of this assignment I will briefly explain both of these teachings and then give examples of any similarities along with any contrasts.
Buddhism
The religion of Buddhism is the fourth ranking religion in the world. Its followers range well over 375 million. This religion’s original birthplace was in India, which sadly is now virtually extinct. However, it is very prevalent throughout China. Its primary founder was said to be a young prince named Siddhartha Gauthama, later to be known as Buddha or the “Enlightened One”. Buddha was born in the sixth century BCE. Legend has it because he was a prince he grew up living an extravagant lifestyle but one of total seclusion per his father’s wishes. Having never left the palace his mind begins to wander as to what lied beyond the walls. When he did venture out into the world he was shocked to discover the reality of the inevitable suffering of life. Soon after witnessing this at age twenty-nine, he left his kingdom leaving behind his wife and newborn son. His goal was to lead a life of self-discipline, ab...

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...they are considered to be the wisest. It is the elderly that receive the most respect and have the most authority.
The difference between these two teachings is Confucianism is mainly concerned with political ideas and social harmony. And Buddhism is primarily concerned with phycology and the nature of the mind. Each of these teachings also emphasized the opposite of its main focus. By way of Confucianism promoted social harmony by teaching about self-cultivation and Buddhism taught about mind by contrasting it with the material world of things and forms. Therefore a complete view of these teachings must include a balance view of these ideas. Another idea common to each of these teachings is was the concept of the Doa which means the way or path. This concept was an idea of living your life in accordance with a great natural way is common to both of these teaches.

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