An introduction to eastern philosophy

Eastern philosophy is a field little known in the West. However, in recent decades there has been a boom in the study of these philosophical currents, within which there are theories and customs that are different from each other.

In fact, one could speak of Eastern philosophies, in the plural, since there is a wide wealth of concepts from various countries, with particular ways of life and varied thoughts.

Thus, we invite you to continue with this introductory reading to Eastern philosophy, through which we will learn about its origins, its schools and its main postulates.

Origin of eastern philosophy

To begin, it is necessary to place ourselves in the context of origin of Eastern philosophy. In this sense, it is a variety of currents of thought that come from the countries of India, China and Japan. It is estimated that philosophical reflection began in these areas 5,000 years ago, which is why we are dealing with very ancient theories and ways of seeing the world.

Indian Eastern Philosophy

These philosophies are more than 3000 years old. These are religious and spiritual currents, among which Buddhism and Jainism stand out. Its source of origin is the Vedic texts, which speak of Indian deities. However, It is with the arrival of the Upanisads that we can designate them as currents of thought.

In these texts, there is an idea that There is a single principle that creates the entire universe.. In this sense, the human being undertakes a search through the thought of this supreme being. It He achieves this through meditation and the cultivation of a calm and collected personality..

Likewise, Indian philosophy has a notion of soul or Atman. According to her, we are divided into body and soul. The first is mortal and the second is immortal. Therefore, When we die our soul can be reincarnated in other bodies. It is an essence that human beings cannot change.

Buddhism

Buddhism is a philosophical doctrine that is part of Eastern Indian philosophy. There are records of this philosophical school from 2500 years ago. In this way, according to Peter Havey, in his book Buddhism, The term refers to the state of being awake or enlightened.. Therefore, it is believed that most people are spiritually asleep.

The Buddha represents the most perfect state of spiritual lucidity. He is the one who discovers the eternal truths and the laws of the universe. Despite this, there are others that do not reach such a level of perfection. These will be in charge of preaching the Buddha’s teachings.

This philosophy seeks, then, the awakening of the human personality through serenity and compassion. In this way, those who practice it will be able to get rid of the attachment to material objects and the suffering that this causes in human beings.

Jainism

This philosophical current preaches what is known as ahimsa. This term designates non-violence towards living beings.. Likewise, Agustín Pániker, in his book Jainism: history, society, philosophy and practice, mentions other characteristics of this philosophy. One of them is detachment from material things, just like Buddhism.

He also seeks emancipation and spiritual salvation. This generates a correction in our actions. They are of great importance, since they determine our future reincarnations. That is to say, reincarnation depends on the merit or demerit of our past lives.

Chinese oriental philosophy

Within this introduction to Eastern philosophy it is important to highlight the role of Chinese philosophy, which It is characterized by the search for self-control and knowledge of nature and the human being.. More than a philosophical system, we find a practice and way of life.

It is from the year 500 BC. C. that there was a proliferation of schools and thoughts. This period is known as the “hundred schools of thought.” Its main philosophical currents were Confucianism, Taoism and Mohism.

Confucianism

Its creator was Kong Qiu or Confucius, who lived between 551 and 479 BC. C. It is a system of thought developed more than 2,500 years ago. In Chinese tradition, Confucianism has been adopted as a philosophy for inner growth. Likewise, it represented a guide that rulers should follow to avoid social chaos.

Confucius was concerned with generating an ethical system that would provide answers to the political problems of his time. The solution he found was the teaching of ethical virtues. This was achieved through personal growth, individual effort and reading the classics.

Ethical virtues in Confucianism

An article published by the University of Guadalajara mentions that in Confucianism there is a distinction between first-level and second-level virtues.

The first-level virtues include humanity and benevolence. Through its cultivation, we can establish relationships with others and go beyond ourselves. They are considered universal, since They are applicable to all situations that may arise..

For their part, the second-level virtues include loyalty, filial piety, respect, truthfulness and courage. The acquisition of these virtues aims to generate a behavioral model that benefits society as a whole..

Taoism

Its founder was Lao Tzu, who was born in 571 BC. C. It is a philosophical, spiritual and intellectual tradition whose central idea is the concept of tao. An article published by the magazine Naturopathic medicine explores the notion of said concept.

It is pointed out that the tao refers to the path we walk. That is, it is a mystical vision that cannot be expressed in words. On the contrary, it is a driving force that is hidden in nature, ready to be discovered. When this happens, individuals find the order and harmony necessary for their lives.

It should be noted in this introduction to Eastern philosophy, that people who practice and live according to Taoism They cultivate tranquility as the basis of all their actions. They achieve this through the reduction or abandonment of selfishness and desires that keep human beings from a harmonious and orderly life.

Mohism

The founder of Mohism was Mozi, who lived between 468 and 391 BC. C. He postulated the creation of an egalitarian society based on utilitarianism. Likewise, he preached the need for reciprocal love between people.

The idea behind this philosophy is pacifist universal love and absolute dedication to the common good.. As we can see, Chinese philosophy is especially concerned with finding order in the chaotic society of its time.

Japanese oriental philosophy

To introduce ourselves to Japanese thought, it is important to highlight that it is an ethical-political doctrine that combines Confucianism, Buddhism and Neo-Confucianism. The first philosophical schools appeared during the period of feudalism.

Neo-Confucianism

Neo-Confucianism is a contemporary version of the Chinese Confucian tradition. In this sense, in the magazine Memory and civilization it is argued that It is a combination of political and moral aspects.

In relation to morality, the practice of Confucian virtues is sought, since they guarantee the order and harmony of human beings with society. Therefore, they wanted to establish a rational ethic. In this way, a benevolent power with virtuous leaders would be achieved on the political level. Only in this way could one think about creating a political and social project.

A philosophy for knowledge and spiritual elevation

In summary, in this introduction to Eastern philosophy we have seen that it has been focused on the search for knowledge and spiritual elevation. Under this logic, they have argued that To live in harmony we must detach ourselves from appearances and selfish feelings.

Since they are philosophies that investigate existence, their concerns have been focused on searching for the meaning of life, society and the environment.

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