Google Answers Logo
View Question
 
Q: Ancient Chinese Culture - Orphans and disabilities ( No Answer,   1 Comment )
Question  
Subject: Ancient Chinese Culture - Orphans and disabilities
Category: Relationships and Society > Cultures
Asked by: aslk-ga
List Price: $20.00
Posted: 28 Jun 2006 23:17 PDT
Expires: 28 Jul 2006 23:17 PDT
Question ID: 741942
I'm doing some research on Chinese culture and orphaned children. My
question is two part:

1) In ancient China, what were the superstitions (and/or social
ramifications) surrouding a child that was born with defects/disabilities?
2) In ancient China, what institutions were in place to take care of
orphans or disabled children?

I'm aware of some writings of Confucius (just general things, like his
emphasis of taking care of the needy), but I'm hoping for specific
historical examples/commentary with well documented sources. Any
period of Chinese history is good, but not "modern" China (I am not
interested in the last 100 years).
Answer  
There is no answer at this time.

Comments  
Subject: Re: Ancient Chinese Culture - Orphans and disabilities
From: ismyle-ga on 30 Jul 2006 21:17 PDT
 
As a native Chinese, I can only offer my personal view on your topic.
Q1:Since you have an in-depth study in Chinese culture, you must have
encountered the Chinese belief of "karma" or "retribution"(in Chinese
??). Its main idea is the vice of the ancestor will result in the
misfortune of his offspring. So a child born with defects or
disabilities will be regarded as the punishment of the god caused by
the wrongdoings of the child's ancestors--especially parents. It may
be the most general superstition, and of course not the only one.
Q2:Many orphaned children may be adopted by the Taoist temples or
Buddhist temple.In history, the most famous person of such origin is 
Zhu Yuanzhang(???) the first emperor of Ming Dynasty.
Wish it can offer some help.

Important Disclaimer: Answers and comments provided on Google Answers are general information, and are not intended to substitute for informed professional medical, psychiatric, psychological, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or other professional advice. Google does not endorse, and expressly disclaims liability for any product, manufacturer, distributor, service or service provider mentioned or any opinion expressed in answers or comments. Please read carefully the Google Answers Terms of Service.

If you feel that you have found inappropriate content, please let us know by emailing us at answers-support@google.com with the question ID listed above. Thank you.
Search Google Answers for
Google Answers  


Google Home - Answers FAQ - Terms of Service - Privacy Policy