中國 歲時風俗을 통해 본 民間信仰 諸樣相

Abstract

This is a general survey on folk beliefs in China in terms of seasonal rituals observed by its people from time immemorial. The paper covers a total of 38 festive events starting from the first month of the year, during which as many as 11 rituals are observed. After January, the month of abundant festivities, a good number of festive celebrations take place in the following order: March, April and December; February and July; May, June and August; September, October and November. Except for December, the month for bidding farewell and welcoming the new year, the most seasonal rituals are concentrated in the first half of the month from January to June. The rich contents of the rituals are found in the odd numbered months such as January, March and July. Also the rituals are celebrated on duplicated number of month and day, such as January 1, March 3, July 7, September 9. The characteristics of the Chinese seasonal rituals are in deep relation with religious festivities: 8 rituals from Buddhism and 33 rituals from Taoism. In general terms, the Taoist influences are prevalent in the ritual celebrations. As to the religious persons or historic figures, the rituals are observed mainly on their birthday or the day when they died. The ceremonies are focused on one's ancestors or various deities. There are also rituals for agriculture or in memory of historic figures and mystic legends etc. Also there are rituals for warding off all sorts of evils from contagious diseases and the vermin. All acts to drive out evils in the seasonal rituals are in general from Taoist practices. The rituals for each season are normally accompanied by the recreative activities and special foods for the happy occasions, along with dances and other plays to invite good fortunes and get rid of bad evils. Generally the seasonal rituals are conducted by women. At every seasonal celebration related to women, various wishes are emphasized, such as to have a baby boy, to better her weaving skill and to have a chance to visit her maiden home. The folk beliefs reflected in the seasonal rituals of China are looking for being free from bad evils, a good harvest, good descendants, a long life without disease, and happy life with material abundance.