Believing in Ghosts and Spirits: The Concept of Gui in Ancient China

Hu Baozhu's book explores the religious landscape of ancient China by examining the character gui, which is essential to understanding spiritual beings. It analyzes gui from various perspectives, including its linguistic root, literary interpretation, ritual practices, sociopolitical implications, and cosmological thinking. The belief in ghosts and spirits in ancient China was a moral standard that provided a room for individual religiosity, implemented the purpose of family-oriented social order, legitimized political operations, and understood the way of Heaven and Earth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The present book by Hu Baozhu delves into the captivating realm of ghosts and spirits, embarking on a mission to chart the religious landscape of ancient China. Its central focus revolves around the enigmatic character of gui 鬼, a vital cog in unraveling the mysteries of spiritual beings. The author embarks on an extensive exploration of gui, examining it from multiple perspectives: lexicons, dictionaries, excavated manuscripts, inscriptions, and classical texts. Through this comprehensive analysis, gui is scrutinized from the lens of its linguistic roots, literary interpretations, ritual practices, sociopolitical implications, and cosmological thinking.

As Chinese individuals ventured into the world of ghosts and spirits, they embarked on a quest to identify and classify these ethereal entities. In their philosophical pursuits, they intertwined the concept of gui with the vast expanse of the universe, giving rise to the belief in ghosts and spirits as a moral compass for all. This belief not only accommodated individual religiosity but also served as a framework for family-oriented social order, the legitimacy of political operations, and a deeper understanding of the celestial and earthly realms.

The book by Hu Baozhu serves as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the rich tapestry of ancient Chinese religious beliefs and practices. Through its meticulous research and insightful analysis, it provides a deeper understanding of the role of gui 鬼 in shaping the spiritual and cultural landscape of ancient China.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367626358