Compare And Contrast Christianity And Confucianism

Christianity developed in the Middle East from the early monotheistic traditions of Zoroastrianism and Judaism. The ancient polytheistic religions of the Fertile Crescent saw gods as fallible and largely Earthly individuals who could be appealed to through offerings. In contrast, Abrahamic scholars believed in an omniscient cosmic entity that favored his followers with prosperity in exchange for exclusive worship. In place of sacrifice, obedience, moral behavior, and prayer were offered. Christianity slowly split from Judaism during the first century of the Common Era. Christianity spread in part due to its inclusive philosophy: people from all social strata, regardless of their health, wealth, sex, or past, were welcomed. As Christianity grew as an institution, the Church offered social programs to the impoverished. Christianity’s swift spread also led many to …show more content…
Legalism stated that the common man was ignorant and malevolent and must be controlled by the government through harsh punishments and rewards. Confucianism, thought to be founded by philosopher Confucius in the 5th century B.C.E., was a system of principles that emphasized respect, virtue, and consideration. While possessing of a spiritual bent, Confucianism does not directly address religious concepts. According to Confucian philosophy, each person’s behavior is influenced by their superiors, and by setting a moral example, authorities could help to ensure that each person would behave in a benevolent and compassionate manner. The importance of education, rituals, family life and hierarchy were greatly stressed. Confucianism appealed to the people by offering a counterpart to the brutality of previous philosophies, by dictating that emperors should be just providers, and by encouraging structure and order in Chinese society. Patriarchy, elitism, and respect for authority ensured a harmonious, if imbalanced,