Between 551 and 479 BCE, in the state of Lu—a province of the Zhou Dynasty near present-day Qufu—one of China’s most renowned philosophers was born: Kong Qiu, better known to the world as Confucius. In China, he was also referred to as Kong Fuzi or Master Kong, and was known by the literary name Zhongni.
Confucius was born to Yan Zhengzai and Shuliang He, a former commander in Lu’s local military. Tragically, his father passed away when Confucius was only three years old, leaving his mother to raise him in poverty. Despite these humble beginnings, Confucius’ lineage traced back to the Duke of Song and ultimately to the Shang Dynasty that preceded the Zhou.
Early Education and Personal Life
Educated initially by his mother, Confucius showed a strong passion for learning from a young age. By the age of 15, he had already resolved to dedicate his life to the pursuit of knowledge. He began reading classical Chinese texts and later attended schools that taught the Six Arts—ritual, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, and mathematics.
He studied Daoism under the master Lao Dan, music under Chang Hong, and ancient rites with Zi Zhang. At the age of 19, he married Qi Guan, and the couple soon had their first child, a son named Kong Li. They later had two daughters, though sadly, one of them died in childhood. At age 23, Confucius lost his mother and mourned her death for three years in accordance with tradition.
Government Service and Diplomacy
In his twenties, Confucius worked in various governmental roles, including as a bookkeeper and caretaker of livestock. By age 32, he had formally entered public service in the state of Lu, where he held several official positions. His most prominent role was as Minister of Crime under Duke Ding.
Confucius earned a reputation for resolving legal disputes fairly and efficiently. His wisdom and diplomatic skill also made him an invaluable advisor in negotiations between rival states. However, at the age of 56, he fell out of favor with the Duke over issues related to corruption and indulgence. Disheartened, Confucius left the court and spent the next 12 years traveling across China, offering his guidance to various regional rulers.
Return to Lu and Founding of His School
According to the ancient text Zuo Zhuan, Confucius returned to his native Lu at the age of 68. There, he established his own school, open to students of all backgrounds—rich or poor. Rather than charging tuition, he only requested a symbolic gift, such as a bundle of dried meat.
He began teaching at 30 and reportedly instructed around 3,000 students throughout his life. Confucius never claimed to be the originator of ideas but considered himself a transmitter of ancient moral traditions, emphasizing the “natural path” to virtue and ethical living.
Literary Contributions
While teaching, Confucius also became an author and editor. He is credited with compiling and contributing to several foundational Chinese texts:
- The Book of Songs (Shi Jing or Shi King) – A collection of poetry
- The Book of Documents (Shu Jing or Shu King) – A historical record
- The Spring and Autumn Annals (Chun Qiu) – A chronicle of Lu’s history
- The Book of Changes (Yi Jing or I Ching) – Philosophical treatises on divination
Final Years and Legacy
In his final years, Confucius continued to teach a group of devoted disciples—Analects suggest the number ranged from 72 to 77. Following the deaths of his son Kong Li and his favorite student, Confucius himself passed away around the age of 71 or 72.
He was buried in the Kong Lin Cemetery in Qufu, where his tomb includes a raised platform for offerings such as incense and fruit.
Influence on Chinese Society
Confucius left behind a profound legacy. His teachings became the foundation of Confucianism, a philosophy that emphasizes:
- Personal and governmental morality
- Proper social relationships
- Justice, kindness, and honesty
Confucianism became deeply woven into the fabric of Chinese culture and governance, shaping everything from education to civil service exams and interpersonal conduct. Because of his contributions, Confucius is revered not only as one of China’s most influential philosophers but also as the founder of Confucianism.
