This text provides a clear introduction to the history of religion in China and its contours 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. Written in an accessible and informative style, and assuming no prior knowledge on the part of the reader, this book gives a basic introduction to the faith, it's history, beliefs, and practices, modern developments and impacts of the world today.

Table of 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