World Religions

Introduction to World Religions Study Guide Enlightenment The goal is to become one with the Tao, or enlightenment. When a person is one with the Tao, they become a sage. A sage is open to life, tranquility, simplicity, unity, intellect, and reserve. Death and Afterlife Some religions are concerned with the afterlife, but the Taoists. Though death is not feared, it is not preferred. It is an additional stage of life and one will pass into it. The Tao continues after death; the emphasis is placed on maintaining life and enjoying it and the Tao as long as possible. 5.4 Chinese Ethnic Religions The collection of ethnic religions and traditions are Chinese folk religion, or Shenism. For most of civilization’s history, this been the majority belief systems in China and among the Han Chinese. Shenism has Chinese mythology and includes the worship of shens. Shens can be nature deities, city deities, national and clan deities, as well as cultural heroes, deimgods, dragons, and ancestors. Chinese folk religion has about 400 million adherents, comprising about 6% of the world’s population. In China, there are over 30% of the population that adheres to Shenism or Taoism. Chinese Holidays • Chinese New Year – Begins at the end of January until the beginning of February and continues until the full moon of the next month. This is a time of cleansing and prepares one for the next year. • Pure and Bright Festival – Takes place in April. Individuals celebrate spring and they give respect to their ancestors. • Dragon Boat Festival – Occurs in the beginning of summer, typically June. There are dragon boat races and rice cakes. This exorcising of evil spirits is important for Taoists. • All Souls Day – Occurs in late August and celebrates the release of ancestors from purgatory. Some leave offerings outside for wandering spirits. • Autumn Harvest – This festival celebrates the harvests and is held during the full moon in September. • Chiao – This holiday celebrates the universe’s renewal and is held during winter.

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