六朝至唐宋间神鬼附体故事研究 - 以《太平广记》、《夷坚志》为核心 = SPIRIT POSSESSION FROM THE SIX DYNASTIES TO THE TANG-SONG PERIOD: EVIDENCE FROM THE TAIPING GUANGJI AND THE YIJIAN ZHI

Abstract

This thesis aims to study the stories about spirit possession and events from the Six Dynasties (220-589) to the Tang (618-907) and the Song (960-1279) Dynasties in Taiping Guangji and Yijian zhi,. First of all, an analysis of the subjects, objects, and methods is conducted in order to illustrate the characteristics of spirit possession activities during these periods, as well as how people accepted and used this ritual in their social life. Second, two methods are studied: The spells of Vajra-being of Impure Traces (huiji jingang fa) and the spells to summon and make inquiries to gods and ghosts (kaozhao fa). This was done in order to draw conclusions about the development tendencies and characteristics of Buddhism, Taoism, and folk religions at that time. Ultimately, through careful analysis of the texts and religious rituals, the essay demonstrates the popular attitude to the religions at that time, and how religious beliefs and folk life affect and interact with each other.