Mysticism and Kingship in China: The Heart of Chinese Wisdom (Cambridge Studies in Religious Traditions) [Paperback]

Julia Ching (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0521468280 | ISBN-13: 978-0521468282 | Publication Date: November 13, 1997

In this book, Julia Ching offers a survey of over 4,000 years of Chinese civilization through an examination of the relationship between kingship and mysticism. She investigates the sage-king myth and ideal, arguing that institutions of kingship were bound up with cultivation of trance states and communication with spirits. Over time, the sage-king myth became a model for the actual ruler. As a paradigm, it was also appropriated by private individuals who strove for wisdom without becoming kings. As the Confucian tradition interacted with the Taoist and the Buddhist, the religious character of spiritual and mystical cultivation became more pronounced. But the sage-king idea continued, promoting expectations of benevolent despotism rather than democratization in Chinese civilization.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Ching's study presents a masterful survey of Chinese history and religion." Religious Studies Review

"The most welcome feature of Julia Ching's wide-ranging account of Mysticism and Kingship in China is her frequent and integral use of the tools of comparative religion." Studies in Religion

Book Description

This book surveys over four-thousand years of Chinese civilisation through an examination of the relationship between kingship and mysticism. Julia Ching investigates the sage-king myth and ideal, and analyses the various skills that have been required as qualifications of leadership. She concludes that the sage-king ideal has promoted expectations of benevolent despotism rather than democratisation in Chinese society. Lucidly written, the book will be of interest to anyone seeking to understand how today's China continues to draw on its past.

Product Details

• Paperback: 328 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (November 13, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521468280
• ISBN-13: 978-0521468282
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,966,484 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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