2.10 Strange doctrines

子曰、攻乎異端、斯害也己。

The Master said, ‘The study of strange doctrines is injurious indeed!

-> e.g. spiritual cults, end of world prophecies, moralistic relativism, skepticism, conspiracy theories, esoteric teachings, etc.

7.3 Irrelevance: Those confucius don’t speak of

子不語、怪、力、亂、神。

The subjects on which the Master did not talk, were– extraordinary things, superhuman power, chaos/disorder, and metaphysics.

-> Confucius did not talk about gods, angels, ghosts, paranormal abilities, metaphysics.

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Discussion:

Confucius did not teach or speak of topics outside the human sphere.  He recommended holding a respectful attitude towards the unknown, and focusing on perfecting the human path.  This is a saying: “未知生,焉知死” (When we are not sure of the human life, how can be we be sure of what beyond human life?)

People like to talk about metaphysics, mysteries, secrets, pseudo-spiritual, astrals, specials, and are often sucked into mass speculations due to various forms of desire (for gain) or fear (for loss).  However, highest truth, as explained across the world’s major religions, are all simple, and focus on the human life, such as doing good and declining bad. Say no to strange teachings and prophecies, and focus on cultivating your person and your life based on the classic teachings of any authentic religion.