Religious Liberty in China

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 23, 1914

Religious Liberty in China

According to a mandate recently promulgated by the president and other officials of China, the people of that country are still guaranteed religious liberty, although there is official recognition in the republic of the old heathen worship. In a recent number of the New York Tribune, we find the following statement with reference to the status of religious liberty in the new republic of China:—

"Religious liberty is observed throughout the world. Our republic is composed of five races,—Chinese, Manchus, Mongolians, Mohammedans, and Tibetans,—and their historical traditions differ. Their religious beliefs are difficult, therefore, to unify. It would not be easy to adopt a state religion, for such a step might be contrary to the wishes of the people.

"But sacrifices offered at the proper seasons to the ancient saints and sages as prescribed in the laws of the late Ching dynasty, did not touch the question of religion. Since they are not in conflict with a republican form of government, they should be continued as a token of respect on the part of the succeeding generations.

"It will become generally known that the ceremonies now prescribed are performed, and there is danger that the ceremonies will be construed as the beginning of the establishment of a national religion. It is therefore necessary to make known the principle which prompted the restoration of the ancient rites, and to state that they are in response to the wishes of the majority to express their reverence and veneration for the saints and sages and to preserve the traditions that have existed for thousands of years.

"The choice of religion is still left to the people. This is according to the liberty guaranteed by the constitution, and in accordance with the practice of the world. This order is issued to avert possible misunderstanding and suspicion."

This is the statement of a Chinaman in reference to his own country. In taking the position it has, that young and populous republic has taken a step far in advance of some nations that call themselves Christian and that boast of centuries of civilization. Would that China's position in this matter might shame the backward "Christian" nations into advancing at least as far as China has. If they would, then might China take another step out into the full light of religious liberty.