Tua Ji Peh: The Intricacies of Liminality in the Deification of Chinese non-Buddhist Supernatural Beings in Chinese-Malaysian Communities

Abstract

The pragmatic, responsive, and syncretic nature of popular Chinese religion is well known and is thought to result, in part, from the religion's close connection to the fluxes of the social system its adherents inhabit.1 These characteristics often result in considerable change when the social fabric is disrupted, such as the immigration of Chinese groups to new and unfamiliar places. Thus, popular religion in Chinese migrant communities can evolve dramatically in a relatively short amount of time due to the cultural and social upheaval inherent in adapting to a new land and society. In this case, the religion becomes increasingly localized in many respects, often changing how practitioners relate to recognized supra-human beings. Yet, the general categories assigned to these beings remain largely intact. Localization, however, can influence how these categories are understood, worshipped, and, occasionally, transcended. Malaysians has become more difficult which parallels a significant rise in political tensions between Malays and non-Malays. This has caused a shift towards favorability in the deities' reputation, the demographics of their worshippers, and the reasons patrons seek their assistance. Overall, the elevation of Tua Ji Peh seems to work towards lending legitimacy to those desperately seeking efficacious aid in a increasingly discriminatory and poltically unstable environment with harsher realities.