On September 28, in Qufu, east China's Shandong Province, the 2024 Grand Ceremony of Worship of Confucius was held to mark the 2,575th anniversary of Confucius' birth. The event remained rooted in tradition, maintaining its solemn tone and preserving the core aspects of the ceremony. This year's ritual showcased the essence of Chinese ritual and musical culture, highlighting the enduring significance of Confucius' teachings.
Confucius, the founder of Confucianism, left a profound legacy not only in China but also around the world. His core teachings emphasize "ren" (benevolence) and "li" (propriety), both of which were the central themes of this year's memorial.
For the first time, the ceremony introduced a ceremonial procession to open the city gate, replacing the previous song and dance performances. The overall presentation emphasized sanctity and formality, with orderly arrangements, solemn music, ceremonial guards, and dignified attire signifying the event's deep cultural significance.
Throughout the procession, participants recited passages from "The Analects of Confucius," while a calligraphy exhibition provided an interactive experience. A cappella performances of "The Analects of Confucius" by 260 choir members replaced the traditional music for the flower basket offering. After the formal rites, students, led by calligraphy teachers, engaged in writing Confucius' lines on site, symbolizing respect for the great sage and the transmission of cultural heritage across generations.