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Chinese Religions

By Joseph Adler

Edited by The late Ninian Smart

Published March 14th 2002 by Routledge – 128 pages

Series: Religions of the World

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Description

This text provides a clear introduction to the history of religion in China and to religious practice in China and Taiwan today. Using a descriptive and original approach, Joseph Adler focuses on the four major traditions: Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and popular/folk religion. Tracing common themes, such as ancestor worship, sacrifice and divination, Adler highlights the ways in which religion has responded to and influenced political and cultural change in China.

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Contents

Foreword Preface Chronology of Chinese Religions

1. Introduction - Lung-shan Temple; Traditions; Themes

2. Origins: Sacrifice and Divination - Shang Oracle Bones

3. The Classical Period - Confucianism; Taoism; Legalism and Mohism

4. The Medieval Period: Han-T'ang - Confucianism; Taoism; Buddhism; Cosmology and popular religion

5. Early Modern: Sung-Early Ch'ing - Neo-Confucianism; Taoism: Inner alchemy, Complete Perfection Sect; Buddhism; Popular Religion - Mat-tsu

6. Modern - Encounters with the West; Tradition versus Modernity; New Confucians; Taoism and Popular Religion; A Buddhist Revival

7. The Future of Chinese Religions

Notes Glossary Pronunciation Guide Festivals Suggested Further Reading Index