The birthday of Confucius in China

On this day, China celebrates the birthday of Confucius, or National Teacher's Day. Confucius, an ancient philosopher who had a great influence on the worldview of all Chinese civilization, has been honored by the Chinese for more than two and a half thousand years.

Confucian philosophy implies self-education based on five virtues: kindness, justice, directness, wisdom and loyalty. For many centuries, it has been the mainstream state ideology of China.

Every year in honor of this date, the followers of the wise man arrange a holiday in the temple of Confucius in his hometown of Qufu. During the celebration, various festivals and exhibitions are held, an impressive ceremony takes place, including the ancient rituals of Confucianism, a visit to the house-museum, the temple and the grove of Confucius, as well as a lot of music and dance.

By the way, the thinker's birthday in China is celebrated twice a year - on completely different days, which may seem strange to us. Thus, the first date, September 28, is celebrated on the western solar calendar and also serves as a reminder of the importance of the training that was promoted by Confucius. This holiday symbolizes that everyone has the right to knowledge, not just the aristocracy.

The second birthday of Confucius does not have an exact date. It is celebrated on the Chinese lunar calendar and falls on the 27th day of the eighth lunar month (this is between the end of September and the beginning of November).