Why Confucianism Is A Religion

To understand why Confucianism is a religion, there must be an understanding of what a religion is. Religion can be defined as an interest, belief, or an activity that is important to a group of people. It is a united practice or belief, which connects worldviews of humanity to an order of one’s existence. The practices of a religion can include sacrifices, festivals, as well as rituals, which are an integral part of all religions. A ritual is “a religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order” (CITE). Religious rituals reinforce the principles of a religion and are a symbolic way for individuals to create meaningful connections in their lives. Such rituals exist in Confucianism; one