Cover of Religions of Ancient China

Religions of Ancient China

by Herbert Allen Giles

Read

"Religions of Ancient China" by Herbert Allen Giles is a historical account published in the early 20th century. This book delves into the intricate tapestry of religious beliefs and practices in ancient China, providing insights into cosmology, spirituality, and the evolution of various faiths throughout Chinese history. It examines the transitions and influences among different religious practices, particularly highlighting the early monotheistic traditions and the later prominence of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. In this comprehensive exploration, Giles outlines the original monotheistic beliefs in ancient China, characterized by reverence for a singular God and the natural world, leading to rituals such as sacrifices and ancestral worship. The narrative further details how Confucianism reshaped spiritual perspectives, advocating moral principles over supernatural concerns. The author also discusses the influence of Taoism and Buddhism and how these ideologies merged and interacted with traditional beliefs. Ultimately, Giles presents a nuanced understanding of how ancient Chinese religion evolved over centuries, integrating various philosophies while retaining core elements of its spiritual roots.

Summary written by Project Gutenberg, by machine.

Language
English
On Project Gutenberg since
26 March 2006
Read in the last 30 days
694 times at Project Gutenberg

More by Herbert Allen Giles

See all

More from the shelf “Paganism”

See all

Subjects and shelves