ABSTRACT
This chapter provides background knowledge on how relationalism gradually emerged from the Chinese sub-consciousness to become the basic and explicit foundation of Chinese beliefs, and how, over time, the three major belief sub-systems – Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism – became complementary fibers in the tapestry of Chinese philosophy. While Confucianism and Daoism were thoroughly “made in China,” Buddhism, emigrated from India, went through centuries of arduous adaptations and was eventually integrated into the Chinese belief system. Arguing against the popular view that Lao Zi (c. 604–531 B.C.E.) and his Daoism was antagonistic to Confucius (551–479 B.C.E.) and his moral code, this chapter proposes that the two doctrines are two sides of the same coin. While Confucius unwaveringly advocated the revitalization of morals so as to harmonize conflicts in relationships, Lao Zi advised non-interference to let Dao work the society back to harmony. After many centuries of readjustment to China’s relationalism, Zen Buddhists preached for peaceful life after “sudden enlightenments.” In spite of the different paths they chose, the three doctrines saw the development and maintenance of harmonious relationships as imperative to eradicating human suffering. Together, they presented viable mental maps and moral guidance for the Chinese people in their endeavors to enjoy life in a harmonious society.
