A Multifaceted Landscape Religion has always been a part of Chinese culture, playing a key role in influencing Chinese values, orientations, and behaviors. Today, while the “one-child policy” has come to an end, China is still an officially atheist nation, with various recognized religions, including; Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestantism. Here, we will look at the multifaceted landscape of religion in China, examining its history, beliefs and the five official religions, to gain a greater understanding of this unique part of Chinese society.
History of Religion in China
With a rich religious history stretching back thousands of years, the topic of religion in China is complex. For many centuries, from the Shang Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, the Chinese accepted a monotheistic, polytheistic, and polydemonistic religious structure or belief system. This structure included popular worship of gods, earthly gods, ghosts, ancestors, and celestial deities.
During the Cultural Revolution, which started in the late 1960s, China experienced a period of extreme religious persecution and even the destruction of sacred places. It was during this time that religious activity was suspended and faith in a higher power was discouraged. Thankfully, this realm has since largely returned, with new religious and spiritual movements reemerging alongside the five main faiths.
Beliefs in Buddhism and Taoism
Although Buddhism and Taoism are seen as two separate and distinct faiths, they are usually referred to as the two main religions in Chinese culture and share many similarities.
Buddhism
Buddhism is an Indian philosophy adopted and perfected in China, that teaches an individual’s path towards enlightenment, or nirvana. It is the most widely practiced religion in China and focuses on eliminating suffering from our lives through meditation and mindfulness.
Taoism
Taoism promotes living in harmony with the Tao, or the way of the Universe, which is a system made up of harmonious opposites. The core beliefs of Taoism include; the oneness of man, nature and God, the connection of all parts of the universe, the acceptance of change and flexibility, and the divine inherent in all things.
The Five Official Religions of China
Although the Chinese nation is officially atheist, the country allows several religions to operate within its borders in a regulated capacity. These five official religions are; Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestantism.
Buddhism
As mentioned previously, Buddhism is the largest faith in China. It is estimated that almost 212 million people practice this religion out of a population of 1.4 billion. Buddhism has a strong presence in the country, with many temples and monasteries found across its cities and countryside.
Taoism
Taoism is the second largest faith in China. It has been practiced in the country since at least the 6th century, with an estimated 40 million adherents. This belief system is all about living in harmony with the Tao, which guides people to think before they act, reject extremes, and find balance.
Islam
Islam is the third largest faith in China, with almost 25 million subscribers. This religion first arrived in China during the 7th century, but has been present in more recent times through the Hui Muslims who mainly reside in the northwest of the country. Islam teaches followers to follow the five pillars of faith; prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, and faith in God.
Catholicism
There are over 12 million Catholics in China, making it the fourth most popular religion in the country. Catholicism was first introduced in 1582, during a mission to hand over a letter from the Pope to the Chinese emperor. Since then, the followers of this faith have established churches and seminaries throughout the country.
Protestantism
Protestantism is the fifth most popular religion in China. This faith has been present in the country since the 19th century and has grown since 1949, particularly in the southern provinces. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 5 million Protestants in the country.
Although China is an atheist state, its religious landscape is multifaceted and diverse. With religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestantism being practiced, it can be seen that religion plays an important role in society. Beliefs in gods, earthly gods, ghosts, and ancestors are also prominent, making Chinese culture more complex and interesting.
