NE Asian religionsNorth-East Asia is rich in spiritual currents, with Buddhist, Christian, Taosit, Confucian and shamanic traditions.
Confucianism Outside of the region little is known about Confucianism. Even though is has provided a system of social and ethical philosophy in China - and further afield - since 500BC. Confucianism has no separate church, but works on the idea that everyday life is the arena for religion.
Taoism Taoism is based on the belief that the first cause of the universe is the Tao, a force flowing through life. Believers aim to become one with the Tao. Today closely associated with Buddhism, Taoism developed in China around the same time as Confusianism.
Shinto Shinto is a Japanese religion that believes in the divinity of the imperial family "Unlike most other religions, Shinto has no real founder, no written scriptures, no body of religious law, and only a very loosely-organized priesthood" and "Shintoists generally follow the code of Confucianism". (Source: http://www.religioustolerance. org/shinto.htm
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Chondogyo Chondogyo is a native religion of Korea. It rests on the idea that a divine saviour will rescue the world. It was originally known as Tonghak (Eastern Learning).
Buddhism Finally, the foundations of Buddhism lie on the belief that a person goes through many cycles of birth, life and death until he or she releases his or her attachment to desire and the self. He or she can then attain Nirvana, a state of liberation and freedom from suffering.
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