How Long to Read The Four Books of Confucianism

How Long Does it Take to Read The Four Books of Confucianism?

It takes the average reader 4 hours and 7 minutes to read The Four Books of Confucianism by Mencius

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

The Four Books (四书) are Chinese classic texts illustrating the core value and belief systems in Confucianism. They were selected by Zhu Xi in the Song dynasty to serve as general introduction to Confucian thought, and they were, in the Ming and Qing dynasties, made the core of the official curriculum for the civil service examinations. They are: Great Learning-Originally one chapter in the Book of Rites. It consists of a short main text attributed to Confucius and nine commentary chapters by Zengzi, one of the disciples of Confucius. Its importance is illustrated by Zengzi's foreword that this is the gateway of learning.It is significant because it expresses many themes of Chinese philosophy and political thinking, and has therefore been extremely influential both in classical and modern Chinese thought. Government, self-cultivation and investigation of things are linked.Doctrine of the Mean-Another chapter in Book of Rites, attributed to Confucius' grandson Zisi. The purpose of this small, 33-chapter book is to demonstrate the usefulness of a golden way to gain perfect virtue. It focuses on the Way (道) that is prescribed by a heavenly mandate not only to the ruler but to everyone. To follow these heavenly instructions by learning and teaching will automatically result in a Confucian virtue. Because Heaven has laid down what is the way to perfect virtue, it is not that difficult to follow the steps of the holy rulers of old if one only knows what is the right way.Analects-A compilation of speeches by Confucius and his disciples, as well as the discussions they held. Since Confucius's time, the Analects has heavily influenced the philosophy and moral values of China and later other East Asian countries as well. The Imperial examinations, started in the Sui dynasty and eventually abolished with the founding of the Republic of China, emphasized Confucian studies and expected candidates to quote and apply the words of Confucius in their essays.Mencius-A collection of conversations of the scholar Mencius with kings of his time. In contrast to the sayings of Confucius, which are short and self-contained, the Mencius consists of long dialogues with extensive prose

How long is The Four Books of Confucianism?

The Four Books of Confucianism by Mencius is 244 pages long, and a total of 61,976 words.

This makes it 82% the length of the average book. It also has 76% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read The Four Books of Confucianism Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 5 hours and 38 minutes to read The Four Books of Confucianism aloud.

What Reading Level is The Four Books of Confucianism?

The Four Books of Confucianism is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy The Four Books of Confucianism?

The Four Books of Confucianism by Mencius is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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