ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Three teachings

Three teachings are the three main belief systems that people in China follow: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. Now, let's talk about what these three teachings are and what they stand for.

Confucianism: Confucianism is all about being a good person in society. Confucius thought that people should always act with respect and kindness towards each other. He taught that harmony and order should exist between individuals, families, and society, which means people should follow the rules and traditions of their society as a way of showing respect. Confucianism also emphasizes the importance of education, etiquette, and moral values.

Taoism: Taoism is all about living in harmony with nature. Taoists believe that everything in the universe is connected, and if people follow nature's way, they will be fulfilled and happy. Taoist philosophy promotes being kind and humble, not seeking power or wealth, and finding balance in life. Taoists also practice meditation, which means sitting quietly and clearing the mind of thoughts.

Buddhism: Buddhism teaches that life has suffering and that suffering can be overcome through enlightenment. Buddhism encourages people to lead compassionate and ethical lives, not be too attached to material things, and follow the Eightfold Path, which includes practices like mindfulness, meditation, and wisdom. The ultimate goal of Buddhism is to reach Nirvana, a state of complete peace and happiness.

So, these are the three teachings, Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. To put it simply, one is about being a good person in society, one is about living with nature, and one is about overcoming suffering and achieving enlightenment.