The 2024 China International Confucius Cultural Festival in Qufu, Shandong Province, is celebrating 2,575 years since the birth of the revered Chinese philosopher Confucius. This event not only honors his enduring legacy but also bridges cultural connections across the globe.
During the festival, CGTN Stringer traveled to South Africa to explore how Confucianism is perceived by the local community. Clea Schultz Mofokeng shared her thoughts, highlighting the Confucian virtue of ren or benevolence, which she finds parallels with the South African philosophy of Ubuntu. \"Both emphasize kindness and the importance of community,\" Mofokeng explained.
Another South African, Greta Frieslaar, expressed her support for universal access to education, a principle Confucius advocated over two millennia ago. \"Confucius’ emphasis on education is incredibly relevant today. It’s inspiring to see how these ancient values still influence modern perspectives,\" Frieslaar remarked.
The festival serves as a platform for cross-cultural dialogue, demonstrating how Confucian ideals resonate with people worldwide. By fostering understanding and shared values, the event underscores the timeless relevance of Confucian philosophy in promoting harmony and mutual respect among diverse communities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
