Similarities Between Confucianism And Daoism

For thousands of years, Confucianism and Daoism—two enormously noble and virtuous ideologies—found life around the world. Correspondingly, teachings of both Confucius and Zhuangzi actively influence cultures around the world—inspiring many in political activity, music, art, film, poetry, and much more. Joseph Smith once stated, “I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.” Meaning the faithful learn truth and they follow their own paths guided by those correct and inspirational teachings. With that being said, the teachings of Confucius best fit this concept as both Latter-day Saints and Confucians use self-reflection, discipline, and personal accountability to receive the most out of the correct principles they know. Firstly,

If you use what is limited to pursue what has no limit, you will be in danger. If you understand this and still strive for knowledge, you will be endanger for certain!” This teaching directly refutes what Joseph Smith and Confucius states while additionally alluding that we should stay on the middle path and dwell in things that are constant. Claiming that trying to learn as much as possible and seeking wisdom is dangerous disregards the teachings of Joseph Smith and Confucius and as we learn we are continually growing spiritually and temporally. Importantly, knowledge helps us grow and while attaining knowledge is a rigorous task that Zhuangzi believes is inconstant—we encounter stumbling blocks and problems as we learn, but are continually growing to be better people and you cannot make consistent and constant progress without seeking out as much knowledge as possible. Zhuangzi’s direction towards a constant path seems to lead more toward stagnant, tedious, and boring living while God’s plan for us calls for learning, repenting, changing, and constant progress as we strive to make it back to him in time. Joseph Smith in the 13th Article of Faith affirms this principle, Confucius confirms, and Daoism rejects it —reinforcing the impact that Joseph Smith and Confucius’ principles and the strength they hold in their followers’