Mysticism and Kingship in China by Julia Ching

Mysticism and Kingship in China by Julia Ching

In this book, Julia Ching offers a magisterial survey of over four thousand years of Chinese civilisation 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, these associations were retained, though sidelined, as the sage-king myth became a model for the actual ruler, with a messianic appeal for the ruled. As a paradigm, it also became 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 democratisation in Chinese civilisation.

"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

Julia Ching is University Professor and R. C. and E. Y. Lee Chair Professor at the University of Toronto.

SKU	Unavailable
ISBN 13	9780521462938
ISBN 10	0521462932
Title	Mysticism and Kingship in China
Author	Julia Ching
Series	Cambridge Studies In Religious Traditions
Condition	Unavailable
Publisher	Cambridge University Press
Year published	1997-11-13
Number of pages	326
Cover note	Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.