Major East Asian Religions to Know for History of East Asia – Before 1200

Major East Asian religions, including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Shinto, shamanism, and ancestor worship, shaped cultural values and social structures before 1200. These belief systems influenced governance, art, and community life across China, Korea, and Japan, creating lasting legacies.

1. Confucianism

   • Founded by Confucius in the 5th century BCE, emphasizing moral integrity and social harmony.
   • Focuses on the importance of relationships, particularly the Five Key Relationships (ruler-subject, father-son, husband-wife, elder brother-younger brother, friend-friend).
   • Advocates for the cultivation of virtues such as ren (benevolence), li (ritual propriety), and xiao (filial piety).
   • Influenced the political and educational systems in East Asia, promoting meritocracy and civil service.
   • Served as a guiding philosophy for governance and social order, shaping cultural values in China, Korea, and Japan.

2. Taoism

   • Originated in China around the 4th century BCE, attributed to Laozi and the text "Tao Te Ching."
   • Emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the Way), which is the fundamental principle that underlies the universe.
   • Advocates for simplicity, spontaneity, and naturalness, encouraging individuals to align with the rhythms of nature.
   • Introduced concepts such as yin and yang, representing the duality and balance in the universe.
   • Influenced Chinese art, literature, and medicine, promoting practices like Tai Chi and traditional Chinese medicine.

3. Buddhism

   • Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 5th century BCE, spreading from India to East Asia.
   • Teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a means to achieve enlightenment and liberation from suffering (nirvana).
   • Emphasizes concepts such as karma, rebirth, and the impermanence of all things.
   • Adapted into various forms in East Asia, including Mahayana Buddhism in China and Japan, which emphasizes compassion and the Bodhisattva ideal.
   • Played a significant role in cultural exchange, art, and philosophy across East Asia, influencing social practices and spiritual beliefs.

4. Shinto

   • Indigenous religion of Japan, focusing on kami (spirits or deities) and the veneration of nature.
   • Emphasizes rituals, festivals, and purification practices to maintain harmony with the kami.
   • Lacks a formalized doctrine or sacred texts, relying on oral traditions and historical texts like the "Nihon Shoki."
   • Intertwined with Japanese culture and identity, influencing art, architecture, and social customs.
   • Coexists with Buddhism in Japan, leading to syncretic practices and beliefs.

5. Shamanism

   • A spiritual practice found in various East Asian cultures, involving communication with spirits and ancestors through rituals and trance states.
   • Practitioners, often called shamans, serve as mediators between the human and spirit worlds, providing healing and guidance.
   • Emphasizes the importance of nature and the spiritual significance of animals and plants.
   • Plays a crucial role in community cohesion and cultural identity, often integrated with other religious practices.
   • Found in various forms across East Asia, including Korean shamanism and Mongolian shamanism, reflecting diverse cultural beliefs.

6. Ancestor Worship

   • A practice rooted in the belief that deceased ancestors continue to influence the living and should be honored and remembered.
   • Involves rituals, offerings, and ceremonies to maintain a connection with ancestors, ensuring their favor and guidance.
   • Central to Confucian values, emphasizing filial piety and respect for family lineage.
   • Common in various East Asian cultures, including Chinese, Korean, and Japanese traditions, often integrated with other religious practices.
   • Reflects the importance of family and community in East Asian societies, shaping social structures and cultural norms.