Abstract
The formation of the features of the Jurchen enlightenment is closely related to the history of the formation of Jin statehood. In the second half of the 12
th
century, a specific education system was formed in Jin. It was based on the Chinese (Confucian) model and took into account the interests of all peoples in the new state. Different ethnic groups (Khitan, Bohai, Chinese, Jurchens, etc.) had the opportunity to receive an education. At that time, a system of specialized educational institutions for the Jurchens was established. It happened during the reign of Shi-tsung and Zhangtsung. This was preceded by the appearance of the Jurchen script and teachers of the Jurchen language in the capitals of the Jurchen state. Jurchens studied Confucian classics (translated into Jurchen) in the specialized Jurchen educational institutions. Like the Chinese, Jurchens were eligible for a jin-shi degree, which gave them the opportunity to obtain an official position and move up the career ladder. Moreover, according to the Chinese model of the educational system, Confucius was worshipped in Jurchen educational institutions, as evidenced by historical records. One of these examples is the relevant fragments in the historical essay “Jin shi” (History of Jin), as discovered by the author. The cult of Confucius in the realities of the new non-Chinese state was developed not only because of the state support and performance of the rite of worship of Confucius by the Jin at the highest (state) level, but also because of the restoration of the Chinese (Confucian) education system throughout the state. The Confucian education system, recreated in Jin, contributed to the spread of the cult of Confucius throughout the state, presumeably, up to the northeastern regions.