Student Question
What religions are emphasized in The Good Earth?
Quick answer:
The main religions emphasized are Taoism and Buddhism, along with elements of superstition, as the protagonist consults a geomancer and visits temples seeking prosperity. However, his primary devotion is to the land itself, viewing it as a source of sustenance and divine power. The protagonist's relationship with religion is pragmatic, as he pledges loyalty to gods based on their ability to fulfill his desires, but ultimately, his true faith lies in the earth.
Religions that the main character pays homage to are Taoism and Buddhism; he is also found consulting a geomancer, who deals in superstitions. He visits temples when he is seeking wealth or prosperity in some form, and he prays to gods promising loyalty if they give what he asks for, but vows to turn from them if they don't. His main "religion" or devotion is actually to the land itself, as seen in the gods he prays to, which are actually made of earth themselves. He says that the earth "formed their homes, fed their bodies, and made their gods". So, even though the main character is rooted in a background of Taoism, Buddhism and superstitions, he really only is faithful to the earth, cultivating it so that it can in turn serve him and his needs.
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