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.
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
