Chinese Religions

by J. Ching

Overview

This is a comprehensive work on the religions of China. As such, it includes an introduction giving an overview of the subject, and the special themes treated in the book, as well as detailed chapters on ancient religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Chinese Islam, Christianity in China as well as popular religion. Throughout the book, care is taken to present both the philosophical teachings as well as the religious practices of the religious traditions, and reflections are offered regarding their present situation and future prospects. Comparisons are offered with other religions, especially Christianity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780333531747
Publisher:	Palgrave Macmillan UK
Publication date:	08/17/1993
Series:	Themes in Comparative Religion , #14241
Edition description:	1993
Pages:	275
Product dimensions:	5.51(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements - Notes on Transliterations - Chronological Table - Introduction - PART 1 THE INDIGENOUS TRADITIONS - The Ancestral Cult and Divination: The Dawn of Ancient Religion - Sacrifice and Kingship: The Eclipse of Ancient Religion - Morality and Rituals: Confucianism as Religious Humanism - Love or the Law: Confucianism and Its Rivals: Mohism and Legalism - Freedom and Natural: Taoism as Religious Philosophy - Immorality and Mysticism: Taoism as Salvation Religion - PART 2 FOREIGN RELIGIONS AND CHINESE RESPONSE - Scripture and Hermeneutics: Buddhism's Entry to China - Mysticism and Devotion: Buddhism Becomes Chinese - Metaphysics and Spirituality: Neo-Confucianism as Response to Buddhism - Ethnic Survival: Islam and Other Middle Eastern Religions - Cultural Assimilation: The Dilemma of Christianity - PART 3 THE LEGACY OF SYNCRETISM - The Vitality of Syncretism: Popular Religion - The Future of Chinese Religions - Appendix: The Chinese Liturgical Year - Basic Literature - Index

Editorial Reviews

A survey organized in three parts: the indigenous traditions (including the religion of antiquity, Confucianism, and Taoism); the religions of foreign origin (Buddhism, Islam, Christianity), with Neo-Confucianism considered as China's response to Buddhist influences; and the legacy of syncretism representing the fruits of union between the native and the non-native. The structure is comparative, with certain themes singled out. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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