Taoism and Confucianism Essay Example

Taoism and Confucianism are some of the religions that are found in china. They are believed to be having emerged at the same period in history. The two philosophies are similar in many ways even though they differ greatly.
Confucianism believes in one God who they worship. However, they worship ancestors through offering sacrifices to them. They cannot be said to be monotheists. They usually worship their God in temples. All the followers of the religion are expected to worship in the temple. They allow the use of statues and pictures in the places of worship and areas they live. They usually use scriptures, which are philosophical books that were written by Confucius. The followers believe that women are inferior people in the society. Following many religions is also allowed in Confucianism. The followers believe that there is life after death and this is why ancestors are worshipped.
Taoism involves following more than one god. Many deities are worshipped. There is belief in life after death. Following more than one religion is allowable in the religion. Followers of Taoism believe in marriage between man and woman. Women are thought to be inferior people in the society. The religion does not believe in existence of prophets. Instead, they believe in existence of philosophers. There is belief that there are no angels. Many of the people who profess the religion are mostly followers of Buddha.
As can be seen, the two religions have many similarities and few differences. However, the two are totally different. Taoism emphasizes that people should live a good life. There is also emphasis on taking care of the body. On the other hand, Confucius emphasizes on living peacefully with others. Brotherhood is a major focus in this religion. The traditions in this religion emphasizes on ensuring that the welfare of the others is observed.