The Nanyang Paradigm of the Nine Emperor Gods Belief: Mechanisms of Cross-Cultural Symbiosis in the Religious System of Southeast Asian Chinese Communities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52152/heranca.v8i2.1153Keywords:
Nine Emperor Gods Belief, Cultural Syncretism, Southeast Asian Chinese Communities, Religious Adaptation, Cross-Cultural SymbiosisAbstract
Taoist and Chinese folk traditions established the Nine Emperor Gods belief which Southeast Asia transformed into its new religious system while renouncing or adopting cultural practices together with different faith traditions. A research study is focused on tracking the development and integration of the Nine Emperor Gods belief throughout Thailand Malaysia and Singapore by using historical data analysis and ethnographic field research and case studies. This research examines border expansion of the belief system and local communities' adaptation while sustaining it through their intercultural relationships. Thai Buddhism and Malay animism contributed to the development of new rituals and temple designs in Malaysia and Thailand. Peranakan and mixed-heritage communities strengthen ethnic cohesion by participating in shared ceremonies during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. Despite progress in urbanization and cultural transformation and state regulation there exists a disruption in the sustainability of ancestral foundations in Taiwan. The research demonstrates why heritage preservation must be supported by documentation along with community involvement and responsible cultural tourism. The research highlights how shared religious traditions support cultural preservation and strengthen social bonds in multicultural diaspora communities. People who follow the traditional Nine Emperor Gods religious belief demonstrate how ancient customs remain active in building communities both strong and welcoming to everyone.
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