Chinese Religions: A Cultural Perspective Review

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(More customer reviews)Christian Jochim, Ph.D., is well-qualfied to speak on the matter of Chinese religions. Not only is he fluent in Mandarin Chinese, he lived in Taiwan for several years, where he conducted advanced research in this field.
Moreover, in his years as a professor at California State University, San Jose, he has introduced this topic to literally thousands of students, of whom I was one. Dr. Jochim guided me from an initial, low-level understanding to an interest in pursuing my own advanced study in this area, which I did in graduate school. I consider Dr. Jochim both a mentor and a friend.
In this book, which is suited both for undergraduate students and anyone who is interested in this area, Dr. Jochim guides the reader through an understanding of the theories (or doctrines), the practices (what people actually do) and the social organization aspects of various Chinese religions. Plus, he ably demonstrates how, in China, religions often interweave. Buddhism and Taoism share some common points for example. A Chinese person can "officially" practice Confucianism and turn around and celebrate a Buddhist holiday. Earlier existing folk religious practices often undergird any "formal" Chinese religion. All this is well-explained in this book.
My own copy of this book is well-worn. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in a basic, sound understanding of the religious and philosophical underpinnings of the people of one of the most important (and becoming more important!) countries on the face of the earth.

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This book introduces Chinese religious traditions by focusing on the interaction between religion and other aspects of Chinese culture. It identifies the basic features of religious theory, practice and social organization in China. It describes the relationship betwen religion and the arts, literature, politics, and philosophy in China. It also includes a glossary featuring explanations of Chinese terms.

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