Chinese folk religion can be roughly defined as belief in three relationships:

• The first relationship is that between man and nature which includes all natural phenomenon and all supernatural beings.

• The second relationship is that between one person and another (dead or alive) or others (groups, family...) in any kind of social setting.

• The third relationship is that between life and afterlife.

During the course of defining and redefining these three relationships, the Chinese ancestors employed all kinds of ideas, concepts, beliefs and icons (both native and imported) to establish Chinese folk religion. The end product is very colorful in appearence, rich in concept and bold in expression.

Pantheistic in principle, Chinese religion is all-inclusive in its scope.

Important Concepts and Key Characters (words)

	"God" or "Supreme Ruler"
	"Heaven", "God" or "Personal God"
	Mandate of Heaven -- The belief of the emperor is chosen by Heaven to rule China and its people.
	Son of Heaven -- the Emperor
	"Way", "The Way", "Word" or "The Word"
	the two equal, essential, universal, and ceaseless forces
	"God", "Divined Head"
	"demon", "evil beings"
	"soul"
	the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire and earth
	to worship
	"conscience"; If you live a life according to your conscience, you will be rewarded by Heaven.
	human-heartedness, a core of all human beings

Note: one important concept is missing from this chart....