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Heeg / Period 8
November 2014
Religion of Canton (Guangzhou) from 600-1450 CE
During this time period in Imperial China, three main teachings
dominated the region and would be in frequent disunity throughout the
ages: Buddhism, Daosim, and Confucianism. They all differed in some
ways, but in general all had a large following. Daoism focused on
personal freedom and harmony with nature, Buddhism focused on
achieving enlightenment, and Confucianism focused more on the
patriarchy and dead ancestor worship.
Throughout time, each would have its own share of oppression,
but they still managed to remain prevalent throughout the society.
Some of the teachings also experienced favoritism from emperor to
emperor. For example, during Genghis Khans rule, Daoists had more
influence over political decisions and were exempt from taxes.
Eventually, Neo-Confucianism was introduced into Chinese society,
which began phasing out Daoism and Buddhism. Many were drawn to
its desire to answer philosophical questions that other teachings had
long been stumped by.
Some extreme anti-religious views also existed that did promote
eradication rather than favoritism. For example, in 621 and on, Daoist
priest Fu Yi denounced Buddhism and urged the government to
disband clergies and put them to better use. Buddhism faced the most
Sources
Xu, Guangqiu. Imperial China 617-1644. Vol. 7. Farmington Hills: Gale,
2003. 364-98. World Eras. Print.
The Cities of Song: Temples and Religious Life. Asia for Educators,
Columbia University, 2008. Web. 14 Nov. 2014.
<http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/song/urban/religion.htm>.
Theobald, Ulrich. Chinese History - Song Dynasty (960-1279) religion
and customs. China Knowledge , 2000. Web. 14 Nov. 2014.
<http://www.chinaknowledge.de/History/Song/song-religion.html>.
An Introduction to the Religion and Philosophy of the Tang (618906)
and Song (9601279) Dynasties. Asian Art Museum, 2012. Web. 14
Nov. 2014. <http://education.asianart.org/exploreresources/background-information/introduction-religion-andphilosophy-tang-618%E2%80%93906-and-song>.