The Five Classics (五經; Wǔ Jīng) are a group of ancient Chinese texts revered for their importance in Chinese literature, philosophy, and education. These texts were central to the curriculum in traditional Chinese education and were canonized during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). Here are the Five Classics:
- Book of Changes (易經; Yì Jīng) - Also known as the I Ching, this is one of the oldest Chinese classical texts. It provides a philosophical framework based on the principles of change, represented through 64 hexagrams, each composed of six lines. The text has been used for divination, philosophical inquiry, and as a guide to Confucian morality.
- Book of History (書經; Shū Jīng) or Classic of History - This collection of ancient Chinese documents includes speeches, decrees, and proclamations from the legendary emperors and early kings of China. It is considered a key source of political and moral philosophy.
- Book of Poetry (詩經; Shī Jīng) - Also known as the Classic of Poetry, it is the oldest existing collection of Chinese poetry, with over 300 poems. These poems cover themes of love, war, work, and sacrifice, providing insights into the daily life and cultural values of the time.
- Record of Rites (禮記; Lǐ Jì) - This work deals with various aspects of Confucian rituals, social norms, and ethical conduct. It is an important source for understanding the Confucian view on social harmony and proper behavior.
- Spring and Autumn Annals (春秋; Chūnqiū) - This is a historical record of the state of Lu from 722 to 481 BCE, attributed to Confucius himself. Its terse entries are interpreted through various commentaries which expand on the moral and political implications of the events recorded.
These classics were not only studied for their content but also for their literary style, moral teachings, and historical significance. The study of these texts was essential for those preparing for the imperial examinations, which were a pathway to official positions in the Chinese bureaucracy. The influence of the Five Classics extended beyond China to influence East Asian cultures, particularly in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.
During the Han Dynasty, Emperor Wu of Han established Confucianism as the state doctrine, which led to the formalization of the Five Classics in education. They were later expanded by the addition of the Four Books in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), although these are not part of the original Five Classics.
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