Chinese Popular Religion: A Series of Overseas Chinese Studies

Author: (American) Arthur P. Wright, translated by Chen Zhongdan
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-07-01
Features: In China, apart from the three mainstream religions of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, there also exist diverse and rich popular religions. These often overlooked grassroots beliefs have had a significant historical impact, such as sparking popular uprisings, regulating the behavior of the people, reflecting social changes, and shaping local rural cultures, among other things. By studying these religions of the lower classes relative to the elite, we can hear the voices of ordinary people from the past and reconstruct the rich picture of life at that time. This book is an excellent collection of essays on Chinese popular religions, featuring nine representative papers by American sinologists who have made significant contributions to this field of study. The authors of these essays are all accomplished scholars in the United States in this research area. Each essay, based either on firsthand field research or on detailed historical documents, examines the worship of beliefs such as the White Lotus Society, Mazu (Goddess of the Sea), Guan Yu, Bixia Goddess, and Wutong God, allowing readers to understand the richness and complexity of ancient Chinese beliefs, as well as their influence and cultural significance among the ancient Chinese people.