6 Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism

Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism – At a first look, these two religions seem to have nothing in common. They are so different, not only as beliefs, but also as philosophies. But they still have some details in common. These details can be observed only after a rough analysis. So let’s see which are the Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism.

The 6 Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism

Founders – although these two religions are different types (Buddhism is universalizing and Confucianism is ethnic) they both have founders. The Founder of Buddhism is Buddha, the enlightened. Confucianism was founded by Confucius. I would like to add the fact that both religions got their names after their founders.

Temples – both Buddhism and Confucianism practice worshiping in temples. Although, Confucianism has only temples. Meanwhile, Buddhism has monasteries and shrines also.

Statues – another similarity is these religion’s attitude toward statues. In Confucianism statues are permitted and used. Also, Buddhists use small Buddha statues for meditation practice.

Buddha – this might be the most important similarity in this list of Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism. Buddha is present in both religion. Although, not directly in Confucianism. But numerous Confucianists follow Buddha and his teachings.

Other religions – the attitude of both Buddhism and Confucianism toward other religions is also similar. They allow followers to practice other religions or religious practices. Even allowing atheists to partake in their religious practices. Due to this attitude, they became some of the most peaceful religions on the globe.

Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism

Teachings – both of these religion’s founders (Buddha and Confucius) encouraged their followers to question everything around them. And to dare to discover themselves the answers to their questions. Also, both founders encourage followers to put others on foreground. But saying it in different ways. Confucius teaches: “Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself”. On the other hand, Buddha teaches the importance of eliminating the “ego”, “I”, “me”.

In conclusion, although these two religions have a hundred times more differences, these 6 Similarities Between Buddhism And Confucianism show that they still have some common grounds. It might be insignificant for outsiders. But each of these 6 similarities are important parts of their practices.