Chinese religion and familism

Book Description

Drawing from over fifty years of immersive study in Chinese culture, scholar Jordan Paper presents a revolutionary approach to understanding spirituality in the East. Rather than viewing Chinese religious practices through Western Christian frameworks that have historically created barriers to comprehension, Paper introduces the concept of Familism as the key to unlocking authentic spiritual wisdom from China.

This paradigm-shifting exploration reveals how the family unit serves as the foundation not only for Chinese religious expression, but for the entire fabric of Chinese society, governance, and cultural identity. Paper traces the emergence of Familism back to humanity's Neolithic period, demonstrating its profound influence on the development of complex civilizations, with imperial China serving as a prime example.

The book illuminates fascinating dimensions of Chinese spirituality, including how the state itself functions as a religious institution and the significant role of spirit possession in religious practice. Paper examines how Buddhism, Daoism, and Judaism have found their place within the broader Chinese religious landscape, while also addressing contemporary questions about religious freedom in modern China.

This groundbreaking work extends beyond Chinese spirituality alone, offering fresh perspectives on East Asian religions generally, as well as indigenous African traditions and Polynesian spiritual practices. For readers seeking to deepen their understanding of non-Western spiritual paths, this book provides essential insights into how family-centered worldviews shape religious experience across cultures.