A Study On The Beliefs Of The Gods In The Navigation Guide In Ming And Qing Dynasties

Navigation guide is the ancient navigator's sailing guide books.Durnng the Ming and Qing Dynasties,a large number of records about the beliefs of the gods appeared in the navigation guide.They contains the social cultural and the change of maritime environment and other important historical information.This article explains the gods in the five mantra in Ming and Qing Dynasties navigation guide.By comparing the change of the gods in the different mantra in Ming and Qing Dynasties navigation guide,it would reveal the improvement of seamanship and the change of maritime trade.Through the related records in Qing Dynasty navigation guide,we can found that the gods in different sea routes have different beliefs.It reflects the regional characteristics of folk beliefs.The opening of the ancient maritime Silk Road can not be separated from the important spiritual pillar of sea-god's belief.The Ming and Qing dynasties navigation guide are the experiences of navigators in all periods.They have retain some historical information about the beliefs of the gods.They are precious and reflect the folk beliefs in the coastal areas.