Images of the immortal

By Paul R. Katz

Book Description

Journey into the spiritual heart of imperial China through an exploration of one of its most significant religious sites. Paul R. Katz invites readers to discover the Palace of Eternal Joy, a monumental temple complex devoted to Lu Dongbin, a beloved deity who captured the imagination of countless believers across centuries.

This scholarly yet accessible work reveals how sacred spaces both mirror and shape the spiritual landscapes of their time. Rather than simply recounting historical facts, Katz demonstrates how the Palace served as a dynamic center where diverse cultural traditions converged and evolved. The author examines how Lu Dongbin's legend developed and spread, showing the intricate relationship between place, story, and belief.

What makes this study particularly compelling is its innovative approach to understanding religious texts and traditions. Katz analyzes not just what these ancient writings say, but how they came to be created, shared, and interpreted by different communities over time. This methodology offers readers fresh insights into how spiritual narratives gain power and meaning.

For those interested in Taoist philosophy, Chinese spirituality, or the ways sacred sites influence religious consciousness, this work provides a thoughtful examination of how temples function as more than mere buildings. They become living repositories of faith, culture, and human aspiration, where the divine and earthly realms intersect in profound ways.