Confucius

Shaolin originated in a China under the strong influence of some major religious and philosophical schools. Besides the Buddhist influence and that of Tamo, the philosophy of Confucius had become the dominating force for social order throughout China. It was an understandable attraction for the imperial family, for Confucius had prescribed a social order based on strict obedience to elders and those in power.

Confucius was a Chinese thinker and social philosopher, whose teachings and philosophy have deeply influenced Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese though and life. His philosophy emphasized personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, justice and sincerity. These values gained prominence in China over other doctrines, such as Legalism or Taoism during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). Confucius' thoughts have been developed into a system of philosophy known as Confucianism.