Confucianism & Stoicism; Reading & Writing

There is a lot of linkage between Confucianism and Stoicism. They are certainly not the same, although there are some similarities in beliefs, like a shared belief in a moral law at work in the universe.

Even some of their techniques are similar. In my blog, Education for the 21st Century, I pointed out that Han Yu, 768 - 824 A.D., recommended a simple writing style called guwen. Chu Hsi (Zhu Xi) had a lot to say about how a student should read. For example:

"There is layer upon layer [of meaning] in the words of the sages. In your reading of them, penetrate deeply. If you simply read what appears on the surface, you will misunderstand. Steep yourself in the words; only then will you grasp their meaning." 4.9 (page 129) in "Learning to be a Sage" translated by Daniel Gardner.

Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius wrote this about his education:

"... I was to be accurate in my reading, and not content with a mere general idea of the meaning..." Meditation 7, Book 1.

In Meditation 7 he also says he was taught to use a direct style of writing, avoiding "verbal conceits."

It is good for a Westerner who is studying Confucianism to also study Stoicism in order to appreciate the universal nature of Confucianism.

Robert

What Confucius Said About Wisdom

Kongzi, called Confucius by Westerners, was one of the wisest men to live.

Click here to read what Confucius said about wisdom.

Robert