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Three Religions

Chinese religious movement

Quick Summary

The "Three Religions" in China refers to the syncretism of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. While Confucianism focuses on social responsibilities and Taoism on nature, they often complement each other. Buddhism, introduced from India, was initially seen as a foreign form of Taoism, with early translations using Taoist terms. Over time, these traditions influenced each other, with Buddhism adopting Chinese characteristics and Taoism incorporating Buddhist ideas, particularly concerning the afterlife. This interaction led to a popular movement, especially in the Song and Ming dynasties, blending Confucian ethics, Taoist merit systems, and Buddhist reincarnation.1234

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