Confucius+Birthday

Chinese Traditional Holidays Birthday of Confucius (551-479 B.C.E.) Also known as Teacher's Day Observed September 28 (Gregorian Calendar) Qiufen 27 (Chinese Lunar Calendar)

K'ung Fo-tzu (551-479 BCE), known in the west by his Latin name, Confucius, is China's most famous philosopher. His wisdom has provided moral guidance to Chinese for over 2500 years, becoming an integral part of the Chinese cultural identity.

He was born in the small town of Tsu in what is now the Chinese Province of Shantung. His father was a magistrate and soldier. At the age of three, Confucius's father died, leaving him to grow up in poverty. At the age of 22, he started the first private school in China, teaching his philosophy of ideal personal conduct, benevolence, and justice by law. In his fifties, he became the Grand Official of Justice for the State of Lu. After leaving that position, he spent the last 13 years of his life traveling around China teaching his philosophies.

In mainland China (People's Republic of China) Confucius is honored on the anniversary of his death - October 1st. In Taiwan, he his honored on the anniversary of his birth - September 28th. His birthday is a legal holiday in Taiwan. It is referred to as Teacher's Day since Confucius is considered the greatest teacher in Chinese history.

Confucius says:

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest." Confucius

"He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger." Confucius