Chinese folk religion is a complex mix of different Daoist and Buddhist beliefs along with ancient Chinese philosophies and mythologies, such as ancestor worship with the oracle bones, ceremonial rituals, and a great many of their own gods. Polytheism with many shens (deities) is normal, and the gods can change from group to group, region to region. This religion of the majority of China's population is not exclusive or dominated by a single text. Members within Chinese folk religion have similar characteristics (see below) but are not explicitly one religion. It is debateable whether or not to even call it a religion. It is the combination or mix of choice for the largest population of the most heavily populated country on earth, and it is all foreign to me. The novel The Journey to the West explores this mix, and with it begins my journey... to the East.
Common Characteristics of Chinese folk religion:
- Inclusivity- unlike most Western religions, Chinese folk religion doesn't place emphasis on any specific doctrine. Those who practice can also practice other religions such as Daoism or Buddhism.
- There are many gods or shens. The people ask the gods for fortunes, health, luck, etc. Temples are built for the deities, and there are holy sites for them in cities. They are usually gods of seasons, elements and things relating to nature, or from Chinese mythology, combined with Daoist deities and Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
- Ancestor Worship has been around the longest, going back to the oracle bones.
- Rituals, whether for funeral rites or other purposes are common.
- Offerings/ Sacrifices to the gods for good luck, wealth, fortune is common.
- Quotes for Chinese folk religion