Taking Confucian religiousness on its own terms

Abstract

This paper delves into the persistent misinterpretation of Confucianism in Western academic circles, proposing a perspective shift towards an internal understanding of Confucian religiosity. Through a comprehensive discourse on Confucianism, the study illuminates its philosophical lexicon, challenging the reductionist view that often casts its complex ethos as mere mysticism. By closely examining the classical Chinese texts, the study reveals the dynamic semantic richness inherent in Confucian thought. It interrogates the West's oversimplification of these teachings and advocates for a nuanced appreciation of Confucianism's integral role in shaping cultural and philosophical paradigms. This research serves as a critical bridge between disparate cultural interpretations, paving the way for a more informed engagement with Confucianism's profound doctrinal substance.