Monday, November 10, 2014


Religion within China

 

       Throughout China there are many widely recognized religions, such as, Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Islam, and Confucianism. Although most recognize China as an atheist country, only around 15% don’t participate in any religious practices of any kind. (“Religions & Beliefs in China”). The culture within China differs from the United States because religions are looked down upon by the Chinese government. This lack of approval for different religions is the reason as to why the culture is so accustom to claiming the title of atheist.

            Xinjiang, China is known for its acceptance of different cultures, and religions. It is also suggested that there are over fifty nationalities that live in peace and harmony (Wan li Han, Wu “Autobiography”). Also, within her biography she admits to being a Muslim girl and is accepted for her religion. She recognizes that she apart of the minority with China, only 1.64% of the Chinese population is Muslim. Although we do recognize China as a majorly atheist country it does have many religions existing within it.  

I found researching religion as a challenge, but when reading the autobiography it caught my attention. I thought a majority of China was atheist, but in reality it is very similar to the United States. It is a mixture of different nationalities, and religions, but unfortunately the Chinese government isn’t as accepting as the United States government. As Americans, we have a lot of pride in our religions, but other countries aren’t as bold with their religions. This is a very fascinating aspect of China that I am very excited to research more in depth.

 

                                         Secondary Sources

“Religions and Beliefs in China.” Travel China Guide.com. Travel China Guide. 2014. 10 Nov. 2014. Web.  

 

                                                Primary Sources

            Layla. Letter to Marisa Mayo. 19 Oct. 2014. MS. Qingdao, China.