The Impact of Land Belief in the Song Dynasty: Spiritual Control, Modes of Sacrifice, and Reinforcement of Grassroots Governance

Abstract

In primitive society, individuals were constrained by low productivity and could only beseech the earth for abundant yields. As a fundamental element of human existence, land naturally garnered reverence; however, natural disasters were often perceived as manifestations of the land god's retribution against humanity. Consequently, traditional China developed two distinct beliefs regarding land: one perceives the land god as a benevolent deity who fosters growth and is honored through various positive sacrificial ceremonies; the other views the land god as a stern figure who metes out punishment to those who transgress. The evolution of land belief during the Song Dynasty significantly contributed to controlling the spirit of lower strata and reinforcing grassroots governance while also influencing sacrificial practices to some extent.