Chinese Salvationist Religions
Chinese Salvationist religions, also known as Chinese salvationist sects or Chinese indigenous religious movements, refer to a diverse array of religious groups in China that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. These movements typically emphasize salvation, healing, and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment, often in response to social and political upheavals during their respective periods of origin. Chinese salvationist religions are characterized by their syncretic nature, blending elements of traditional Chinese folk religion, Buddhism, Taoism, and other spiritual traditions. Some of the prominent Chinese salvationist movements include:
- Yiguandao (Way of Pervading Unity): Founded in the early 20th century by Zhang Tianran, Yiguandao combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity. It emphasizes moral conduct, meditation, and the worship of a pantheon of deities, including the Supreme God and various heavenly officials. Yiguandao gained a significant following in China and overseas, although it faced suppression during various political campaigns.
- Tianzhu Jiao (Church of the Heavenly Lord): Tianzhu Jiao originated in the late 19th century and is associated with the teachings of Hong Rengan, a cousin of the Taiping Rebellion leader Hong Xiuquan. The movement combines elements of Christianity with indigenous Chinese religious beliefs, emphasizing the worship of the Heavenly Lord and the pursuit of salvation through faith and righteousness.
- De teaching (Virtue teaching): Founded by Ding Lecheng in the early 20th century, De teaching combines elements of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. It emphasizes moral cultivation, filial piety, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through virtuous living. De teaching advocates for social reform and the promotion of traditional Chinese values.
- Xiantiandao (Way of Former Heaven): Xiantiandao emerged in the early 20th century and is based on the teachings of Li Yujie. The movement promotes the worship of the Jade Emperor and other celestial deities, as well as the practice of meditation, divination, and spiritual healing. Xiantiandao emphasizes the attainment of immortality and the cultivation of divine virtues.
- Zhong Gong (Central Harmony): Zhong Gong was founded in the late 20th century by Zhang Hongbao and incorporates elements of qigong practice, traditional Chinese medicine, and spiritual teachings. It gained a large following in China before facing persecution by the Chinese government in the late 1990s.
These Chinese salvationist religions reflect the diversity and dynamism of religious belief and practice in China, offering alternative paths to spiritual fulfillment and salvation for their followers. Despite facing challenges from state authorities and societal pressures, these movements continue to play a significant role in shaping religious landscapes in contemporary China.
