Confucianism and Hinduism

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Both Confucianism and Hinduism are ancient religions, one founded in India and another in China. Between the two eastern philosphies, many similarities exist.

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[edit] Similarities

Both Hinduism and Confucianism are termed"eastern philosophies.

[edit] Importance of nobleness

The disciples of both religions aim to become noble citizens of the world. Only then they may achieve the absolute truth.[citation needed] In Hinduism, this person is an Arya and in Confucianism, a Junzi.

[edit] Importance of meditation

Meditation is an important aspect of Hinduism and Confucianism, especially for ascetics. It is a way to link the human mind with a concept of absolute truth.

[edit] Absolute truth

Both religions advocate a supreme nature. Hinduism stresses the Brahman and Confucianism the Tian or the Mandate of Heaven. Both the Brahman and the Tian were said by the followers of the two religions to be both personal and impersonal. Many times, followers only advocate one of the two aspects.

[edit] Pangu and purusha

In Hindu mythology, the universe was said to be created by a giant being called Purusha who sacrificed Himself. Another popular Hindu story tells that the universe was created from an egg. In Chinese mythology, the universe was said to be created by a giant called Pangu who originated from a cosmic egg.

[edit] Differences

[edit] Reincarnation

Unlike Hinduism, Confucianism, at least neo-Confucianism rejects the idea of reincarnation.

[edit] See also