Three Lives Stone, Old Spiritual Soul: Ancient Chinese Fiction and Religion (Dàjiā Xiǎoshū. Issue 4)

Author: Bai Huawen
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not available
Features: The second and third parts of this book discuss the origin, evolution of the Eight Immortals, and the use of several types of artifacts. I dare not make arbitrary comments for fear of desecrating the Buddha's head. Fortunately, the author has provided a summary in the preface and afterword. Readers should read carefully and will naturally gradually immerse themselves in the content. The content of this book: Five chapters, exemplifying the connection between a certain genre of stories and Buddhist stories. The focus is on how Chinese authors transform foreign elements into local culture, innovating and renewing. The second part consists of one chapter, explaining the transformations and origins of the Eight Immortals. The third part includes five chapters, detailing the use of various artifacts in Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and among high-ranking individuals and society at large, as well as the various special meanings they embody. It must be noted that this manuscript aims for popularization and is not a collection of advanced academic papers. We have referenced the important materials we could gather. It’s like arranging a room—beds, bedding, tables, chairs, calligraphy and paintings, lamps, and so on—all are purchased. There are also a few items made by the author himself. However, the artistic design of the interior is the author's. In today's "knowledge explosion" era, there must be many materials we have not seen. Therefore, we no longer list a reference bibliography!