Confucius was born today in writing history, September 28. Celebrate the occasion by learning more about the philosopher’s life and contributions to literature. Aspiring writers should also use this opportunity as a writing exercise. Look for inspiration today in writing history.
Today in Writing: September 28: Confucius’ Birthday
Confucius was born on September 28, 551 BCE. He is best known for his role in Eastern Philosophy, and his teachings remain an integral part of the society and culture in China and other parts of Eastern Asia. The philosopher’s teachings and way of life has made Confucianism one of the most influential religious philosophies.
While Confucius considered himself merely a transmitter of old ways, he is credited with a number of thought-provoking sayings and quotes. His advice has withstood the test of time and is still used for inspiration and guidance in the modern era. His most famous teaching, do not do unto others what you do not want done to yourself, has become better known as the Golden Rule.
Writing Prompts for Today In Writing: September 28
Take this opportunity to learn more about Confucius and his ability to inspire, reflect, and motivate through his writing. Above all else, Confucianism promotes a peaceful life through human-centered virtues. His teachings are literally a way of life for some. Find inspiration about the philosopher, learn more details about his life, and write about a topic below.
Confucius Biography
Kǒng Fūzǐ (孔夫子, “Master Kong”) was born on September 28, 551 BCE, in Zou, the modern-day province of Shandong, China. The Latinized name “Confucius” arose in the 16th century. His father, Kong He, was the commander of a local garrison. He died when Confucius was three, leaving his mother, Yan Zhengzai, to raise him in poverty. She would die before her 40th birthday.
Role in Government
Confucius began his political career in his 20s, working a variety of low-level government jobs. He had built a reputation through his teachings, which were seen as very important to achieve loyalty to a legitimate government. Confucius would be appointed as a governor of a small town, but would eventually work his way up to the Minister of Crime. However, he was not of an aristocratic house, and merely served as a representative in a government. With no physical power, he relied on his diplomatic abilities.
The Exile of Confucius
Seeking government reforms, Confucius became involved in political struggles in the territory. However, his plot would eventually fail, making him powerful enemies, such as Viscount Ji Huan. He would leave his position and enter self-exile.
He would eventually return to his homeland at the age of 68, where he would continue to teach his Confucianism principles until his death. Confucius died in 479 BCE at the age of 71 or 72. He is buried in the Kong Lin cemetery in Qufu, China.
Confucianism
Confucianism is one of the most influential religious philosophies in the history of China. Created from the teaching of Confucius, it has existed for over 2500 years and is a keystone of Chinese culture. Its reach has since spread globally. Classifying it as a religion or a philosophy is a contested topic.
At its core, Confucianism is concerned with inner virtue, morality, and respect for the community and its values. These ideas were very useful for promoting a peaceful society and would eventually become the official ideology of ancient China.
Morality of Confucius
The main concept of Confucianism is having a good moral character. According to the teachings of Confucius, morality affects the world around an individual through cosmic harmony. Someone who is morally perfect will be peaceful and benevolent. Someone who is bankrupt of morals will face struggle and hardship. Education was an essential pillar of this concept, so people could work towards better morals.
Today in Writing: September 28 – 16 Confucius Quotes
The philosophy of Confucius is known around the world. His words continue to inspire and guide, not only in China, but around the world. His Golden Rule, do not do unto others what you do not want done to yourself, remains sage advice, hundreds of years after the great master first had the idea. Aspiring writers can find inspiration in the eternal and sage advice of Confucius.
16 Confucius Quotes
1. It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.
2. Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.
3. When anger rises, think of the consequences.
4. When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.
5. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.
6. Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.
7. Real knowledge is to know the extent of one’s ignorance.
8. Wherever you go, go with all your heart.
9. By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.
10. To know what you know and what you do not know, that is true knowledge.
11. He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger.
12. The superior man thinks always of virtue; the common man thinks of comfort.
13. The superior man understands what is right; the inferior man understands what will sell.
14. Never give a sword to a man who can’t dance.
15. Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.
16. You cannot open a book without learning something.
Today in Writing: September 28 – Daily Writing Exercise
Now that you have done some reading, it is time to write. Aspiring writers should look to the stories from Confucius’ life for their own inspiration. Check through his quotes to spark an idea or read some of the philosophical thoughts of the wise sage.
Find a topic from Today in Writing: September 28 and freewrite for 10 minutes. The writings and teachings of Confucius remain highly relevant and influential millennia after the philosopher’s death. His dedication to his writing is a legacy for aspiring writers to practice. Remember The Reliable Narrator’s Golden Rule to pay tribute to the master of Eastern Philosophy and write!
Don’t let any opportunity to write go to waste. Aspiring writers: Practice your writing today. Celebrate Today in Writing History September 28.
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