Confucius, whose Chinese name was Qiuo or Zhong Ni, was born in Zouyi, Qufu district of Lu state now a part of Shangdong province, China.
Confucius was clever, kind and fond of studying. He became well known for his learning at the age of 30, and attracted disciples from near and far. When he was 54, he and his disciples started to travel from one state to another to learn and teach rites, music, archery, riding, calligraphy, and mathematics, and to persuade Emperors to implement his politics of governing by ethics. When 68 he returned to Lu state to write books and teach. During his lifetime he had nearly 3000 students. He died at the age of 73.
Confucius revised and edited the "The Five Pre-Confucian Classics" (Book of Odes, Book of Annals, Book of Rites, Book of spring and Autumn, Book of Change). "The Four Books" (The Great Study, The Golden Means, The Analects, Mencius), recording his teachings and doctrine compiled by his disciples. The Five Pre-Confucian Classics and The Four Books are Confucian Canons.
Confucianism (or Confucius' doctrine) is, in brief, a thcory on the ethical behavior of a gentlenman: educating the self, organizing the family, governing the state, and ruling all nations.
Confucianism's most important contribution lies in making feudal society proderly and lawful by teaching people how to behave and educate themselves, and take responsibility for their family and society.
Confucius has been honored as "The ever lasting exemplary Teacher".
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