Reverence

Yesterday, we visited the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, a complex of ancient stone buildings with ornate doorways, courtyards, and old trees. It is built on a hillside, and one gradually ascends to the higher levels via stone stairs.  At the Temple’s entrance is a reminder that everyone, even the highest official ought to show Confucius respect.

Confucius was not a god, but a teacher and social philosopher. He lived between 551 and 480 BC, a chaotic period in the history of China. His ethical teachings, which resemble those of all the great religions, greatly influenced Chinese thought.

Each day, there is a ceremony at the Temple venerating the sage.  When government officials visit, the ceremony is more elaborate, and we were fortunate to visit on one of these days. Trumpets were sounded, and incense burned. Red robed celebrants carrying peacock feathers brought flowers to and altar where incense burned.  There is something universal about reverence.