On September 30, during an engaging interview, leading scholars discussed the enduring influence of Confucius and his philosophy, which has shaped China’s development and the values of Eastern societies for more than two millennia. One scholar remarked, “Without Confucius, history would be a long night.”
Every year, on September 28, individuals from various sectors convene in Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, to pay their respects to this historical icon. Since the inaugural “Qufu Confucius Birthday Celebration” in 1984, the China International Confucius Cultural Festival has significantly expanded its international presence and influence, with the upcoming 2024 festival marking a remarkable 40 years of celebration.
Professor Yang Chaoming, a respected scholar from Shandong University and Vice President of the International Confucian Association, pointed out that Confucius imagined a world where everyone contributes to the common good—a vision embraced by many throughout Chinese history. He emphasized that Confucian culture, as a vibrant and practical civilization, continues to shape values, thought processes, and behaviors across East Asia and beyond. The rituals honoring Confucius, therefore, remain both relevant and impactful after centuries.
This year’s festival launched the “Cultural Institutions in the World” initiative, bringing together nearly a hundred educators, scholars, and administrators from countries such as Japan, South Korea, and France to exchange valuable insights on cultural heritage preservation and promotion. Participants stressed the importance of creatively reinterpreting and innovating traditional culture to engage contemporary audiences while leveraging new digital trends for wider cultural outreach.
Wang Xuedian, a member of the National Committee and Dean of the Shandong University Institute of Confucian Studies, highlighted that this year’s festival laid the groundwork for promoting socialist core values, while integrating Marxist principles with China’s rich cultural heritage, signaling a promising new phase.
The festival also focused on the youth, acknowledging that their engagement is crucial for securing the future. Through initiatives like the “My View of Confucius” project, young people from around the globe shared their views on Confucian values during the festivity. An Australian participant reflected on her appreciation for the traditional attire she donned during her graduation in China, linking it to Confucius’s ideals of propriety and cultural pride.
First-time attendee Fan Dingqi, a student from Hong Kong, expressed how powerfully such events connect participants to history. Many attendees voiced a shared responsibility to preserve and promote traditional culture, particularly among younger generations.
Yang Chaoming contended that today’s youth participation in these rituals enhances cultural understanding and fosters confidence, motivating them to embrace their roles as cultural custodians. He emphasized the need to delve deeper into traditional cultural values and authentically present them to inspire future generations.
With over 370 guests from 36 countries, the festival showcased its international appeal. Attendees included representatives from academic institutions, government bodies, and youth organizations, forming a diverse coalition committed to cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Indonesian student Zhang Minghui saw Confucianism as a bridge connecting Chinese culture to the world. Meanwhile, Moroccan doctoral student Chen Shiyao shared her determination to promote knowledge of Confucius’s teachings across different cultures through her research.
Wang Xuedian reiterated that as global dynamics evolve, humanity must not only rely on technological advancements but also creatively develop traditional cultures like Confucianism to tackle contemporary challenges. He urged for collaborative efforts to share wisdom and power in pursuit of a brighter future for all.
In summary, this dialogue revealed a timeless dedication to fostering cultural dialogue and mutual understanding—principles that remain highly relevant in today’s ever-changing world.
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