About this book
Buddhism and Buddhists in China by Lewis Hodus offers a fascinating window into the spiritual lives of Chinese communities during a transformative historical moment. This anthropological study captures Buddhism as it was genuinely practiced in early twentieth-century China, moving beyond textbook doctrine to reveal the lived experiences, rituals, and beliefs of ordinary Buddhists navigating their faith in daily life.
What makes this work particularly compelling is its unique comparative lens. Hodus examines how traditional Buddhism intersected with Christianity during an era of intense missionary activity, exploring how these two world religions engaged with one another on Chinese soil. Rather than treating either tradition in isolation, he contextualizes Buddhism within the broader religious landscape of the period, revealing how Chinese practitioners understood and responded to Western religious influence.
This non-fiction history provides essential context for anyone seeking to understand both Buddhism's deep roots in Chinese culture and the complex religious dynamics of the early modern period. Whether you're interested in Asian history, religious studies, or the fascinating intersections between Eastern and Western traditions, this audiobook delivers scholarly insight paired with genuine human perspective.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, religious scholars, and listeners curious about how ancient traditions adapted and persisted through periods of significant social change, this audiobook enriches your understanding of Buddhism's place in Chinese civilization and the era that shaped modern religious practice.