The Evolution and Characteristics of Religious Beliefs in China

The Chinese Perspective on Religion

The Chinese understanding of religion can be categorized into three distinct dimensions:

1. Spiritual Dimension:
   This refers to personal or mystical experiences that emphasize individual spirituality and introspection.

2. Cultural Dimension:
   Religion as a cultural phenomenon reflects specific traditional and national expressions of human civilization, shaping values and societal norms over time.

3. Social Structure Dimension:
   Religion serves as an element of social organization, influencing political stability, national unity, and social harmony.

Thus, the term "religion" in China encompasses not only structured organizations and institutions but also people's devoutness and emotional connections with the divine.

The Psychological Origins of Belief

From a psychological standpoint, the emergence of human belief systems stems from curiosity and reverence toward the unknown and mysterious. When confronted with extreme situations beyond personal control—such as natural disasters or man-made crises—people seek spiritual support to provide solace and assurance.

Utilitarian and Pragmatic Nature of Chinese Beliefs

Chinese folk beliefs are deeply rooted in utilitarianism and pragmatism. The core motivation behind worshiping deities and Buddha is the pursuit of tangible benefits, such as:

• Restored health
• Academic and career success
• Business prosperity
• Agricultural abundance

To cater to these diverse needs, Chinese folk religion has developed a polytheistic framework, where different deities fulfill specific functions. However, when these deities are perceived as insufficient in addressing complex desires, the belief in an omnipotent "supreme deity" arises. An example of this is the worship of the Mazu (Heavenly Mother), who is revered as an all-encompassing divine figure.

Impact of Socio-Cultural Changes on Religious Practices

The development of modern and contemporary China has influenced the simplification of religious rituals. In the early 20th century, societal instability caused by warfare and political upheaval led to a decline in religious confidence among the populace. This resistance to religion was further intensified by:

1. Decline of Traditional Religions:
   Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism saw a downturn as people sought alternative ideologies.

2. Foreign Influence and Resistance:
   The Opium Wars resulted in treaties that lifted restrictions on Christian missionary activities in mainland China. This led to a widespread rejection of foreign religions, fueled by nationalistic sentiments.

3. Collapse of the Feudal System:
   Following the Xinhai Revolution (1911), the influence of religion weakened as the feudal system crumbled. The downfall of "theocracy" meant that feudal traditions and social structures supported by religious customs were gradually abolished.

4. The New Culture Movement:
   The introduction of concepts like democracy and science during this period led to strong criticism of Confucian culture and a broader rejection of traditional religious practices, which were seen as remnants of feudal thinking.

The Modern Legacy of Chinese Religion

Despite the resistance to religion as part of China's social transformation, certain religious rituals and customs have persisted and continue to be practiced today. These preserved traditions reflect the adaptability of religious belief systems within the context of evolving cultural and political landscapes. Through centuries of change, Chinese religion remains an integral part of cultural identity, blending spiritual beliefs with practical life aspirations.