Discover Meaning Behind Ancestral Rites and Worship (Essay Sample)

(Name)
(Instructors’ name)
(Course)
(Date)
The Meaning behind Ancestral Rites and Worship
The significance of ancestral worship has been debated for many years, and conflicting opinions continue to emerge. Its importance should not be found in a summary of its outward expression but in a careful and sympathetic analysis of the intentions that lie behind such ancestral rites. The meaning behind ancestral rites is understood differently by outsiders compared to the individuals who practice it. Therefore, it is imperative for individuals to understand the procedures followed in ancestral rites and the purpose or meaning behind them.
The motives behind ancestral worship are numerous and varied. They cannot be summarized nor dismissed in a sentence, for they differ among classes and individuals. The average Chinese person may sacrifice without an explicit and conscious motive. They may carry out the rites for it is a customary practice. Consequently, their purpose for proceeding with such ancestral rites is not initiated by one particular purpose. It is not natural for them to ask questions regarding such practices. Nevertheless, if asked to do so, various underlying ideas and factors can be revealed.
Zhu-Xhi is a Chinese author who narrated his family’s rituals in a book. The author’s written scripts have been passed on to many generations. The information he provided was a continuation of a set of instructions authored by Sima Guang. Guang compiled a book containing various instructions regarding funerals, ancestral worship, and weddings among other forms of etiquette (Ebrey, 157). The source provides an understanding of the procedures that took place during ancestral rites and their importance. Furthermore, it provides a vivid description of the allocation of responsibilities among people living in a community, the importance of respect for the elderly and among each other. The importance of family is revealed through the textual source. Therefore, the author of the source felt it necessary to share intimate details of his family’s rituals to ensure that such rites are recognized and followed by future generations after his death.
The dead are viewed as living entities during the sacrifices. As a result, offerings are made out to them and they are dependent on their descendants to ensure their future well-being. Although this belief may not be directly expressed in the form of a feeling, it usually is a presupposition during the rituals. Thus, according to the textual source one of the motives behind ancestral rites is to satisfy the demands of ancestors. It is triggered by an urge of filial duty and devotion expressing itself in unrelenting affecti...