Chuma Xian, as the name suggests, is a religious belief phenomenon related to “Chuma” or “Chushan”, mainly spread in northern China, especially in the northeast region. Many people may wonder when mentioning Chuma Xian: “Does Chuma Xian belong to Taoism?” In this article, we will delve into the origin, belief system, relationship with Taoism, and its changes in modern society of Chuma Xian.
The Origin of the Horse Immortal
The origin of Chuma Xian can be traced back to the fusion of traditional Chinese folk beliefs and Taoist culture. The early belief in Ma Xian mainly came from the worship of natural forces by people in agricultural culture. They believed that souls and gods roamed in the natural world and could influence human life. In this context, people gradually evolved the belief in Ma Xian, viewing certain mediums or Taoists as a medium for communication with the gods.
In history, the belief in Ma Xian has a close connection with Taoism. Taoism values cultivation and immortality, while the emergence of a horse immortal is an expression of seeking supernatural powers. Many beliefs and rituals related to the emergence of horse immortals draw inspiration from Taoism, such as the understanding of the soul, yin and yang, and the five elements.
The belief system of Chuma Xian
The belief system of Chuma Xian mainly consists of several core elements, including the process of “Chuma”, the setting of spiritual medium characters, and the connection with gods.
The process of ‘coming out’
‘Chuma’ refers to a specific ritual that allows a medium to enter a state where their soul is out of the body, in order to communicate with the gods. This process usually involves some specific preparations, such as burning incense, offering sacrifices, and reciting mantras. During this process, the dispatched spiritual medium will exhibit different expressions, language, and actions, displaying different divine images.
Setting of Medium Characters
In the belief of the god of horses, mediums play a crucial role. They are not only the bridge between gods and humans, but also the executors of rituals and summoning gods. Runners usually receive specialized training to enhance their psychic abilities.
The identities of spiritual mediums are diverse, ranging from laypeople to Taoists or monks. In some regions, people specifically select spiritual individuals as horsemen, who are believed to be able to feel the call of the gods.
Connection with the gods
Another important aspect of the belief in Ma Xian is establishing a connection with the gods. Believers believe that certain deities can help them solve problems in their lives, such as illness, family disputes, or career difficulties. Believers will pray to the gods for guidance and help during the horse riding ceremony. This belief is deeply rooted in people’s yearning for mysterious power and their hope for a better life.
The relationship between Chuma Xian and Taoism
There has been a long-standing debate about whether the “Chuma Xian” belongs to Taoism. Although there are many similarities between Chuma Xian and Taoism, such as their emphasis on the concepts of soul and yin and yang, many scholars believe that Chuma Xian is closer to folk beliefs than orthodox Taoist beliefs.
similarity
The belief components are similar: both Taoism and the belief in Chuma Xian involve the worship of gods, ancestors, and natural forces, especially the emphasis on the soul.
The ritual process: In many rituals of Ma Xian and Taoism, there are elements of burning incense, prayer, and divination, which are common manifestations of Chinese folk religious culture.
The role of spiritual mediums: Whether they are Taoist monks or divine mediums, they all play similar roles in helping believers communicate with gods and solve problems. Differences.
System: Taoism has a relatively systematic philosophy and ideas, such as the philosophical concepts of the Tao Te Ching and the process of cultivating the Tao. However, the belief in Chuma Xian is relatively loose, lacking systematic theoretical support, and mostly based on folk customs and beliefs.
Organizational structure: As a religion, Taoism has a relatively complete organizational structure, such as Taoist temples and Taoists. However, Ma Xian is more based on local customs and lacks a nationwide organization.
Object of belief: Taoism mainly believes in officially recognized Taoist deities, such as the Three Pure Ones and the Eight Immortals, while the deities worshipped by Chuma Immortal are often local, which makes the form of Chuma Immortal belief more localized. The Changes of Chuma Xian in Modern Society.
With the progress of society and changes in people’s attitudes, the belief in becoming a horse immortal is also constantly developing. In today’s society, the belief in the emergence of horse immortals is gradually regarded as superstition by some people, but there are still many believers who adhere to this belief, believing that it is an important way to communicate with nature and the soul.
As a belief with a profound cultural foundation, Chuma Xian showcases the diversity and complexity of traditional Chinese culture. Although the debate over whether Chuma Xian belongs to Taoism continues, it is undeniable that it holds a place in the Chinese folk belief system. With the changes of the times, the belief in Ma Xian is constantly adapting to new social environments and demonstrating unique vitality. In the future, we hope that more people can pay attention to and understand this traditional culture, so that it can find a new position in modern society.
