Meaning: This quote by Hu Shih, a prominent Chinese philosopher and diplomat, touches upon the historical development of religious thought in ancient China. It highlights the impact of early philosophers on the simplification and purification of an already simple religious tradition. To fully grasp the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical and philosophical context of ancient China.

Ancient Chinese religious beliefs were characterized by a diverse array of practices, rituals, and beliefs that were deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural fabric of the society. The religious landscape of ancient China was marked by the worship of various deities, ancestral veneration, and the observance of elaborate rituals aimed at maintaining harmony between the earthly and spiritual realms. This complex religious tapestry coexisted with the burgeoning philosophical thought that sought to understand the nature of existence, morality, and the human condition.

The early philosophers of ancient China, including figures such as Laozi and Confucius, played a pivotal role in shaping the religious and philosophical landscape of the time. Laozi, often considered the founder of naturalism, emphasized the importance of living in harmony with the natural order and advocated for a simplistic and introspective way of life. His philosophical work, exemplified in the Dao De Jing, had a profound influence on Chinese thought, contributing to the simplification and purification of religious beliefs by emphasizing the fundamental principles of nature and the Dao, or the way.

Confucius, another influential philosopher of ancient China, focused on ethical and moral principles, promoting the values of benevolence, righteousness, and filial piety. His teachings, centered on the cultivation of virtue and the establishment of harmonious relationships within society, also had a significant impact on the religious and philosophical landscape, further contributing to the simplification and purification of ancient Chinese religious beliefs.

Hu Shih's reference to the early philosophers as "simplifying and purifying" the already simple religion sheds light on the transformative influence of philosophical thought on religious practices. The emphasis on naturalism, agnosticism, and ethical principles served to streamline and clarify the religious traditions, stripping away extraneous elements and rituals to distill the core tenets of belief and moral conduct.

The process of simplification and purification described by Hu Shih reflects a broader trend in the evolution of religious and philosophical thought, where the intellectual and spiritual elite sought to distill the essence of belief systems and moral codes, making them more accessible and comprehensible to the broader populace. This intellectual refinement of religious beliefs and the promotion of ethical conduct aimed to elevate and guide individuals in their quest for personal fulfillment and social harmony.

In conclusion, Hu Shih's quote encapsulates the historical interplay between philosophy and religion in ancient China, highlighting the transformative influence of early philosophers on the simplification and purification of religious beliefs. By emphasizing naturalism, agnosticism, and ethical principles, these philosophers contributed to the clarification and refinement of ancient Chinese religious traditions, shaping the spiritual and intellectual landscape of the time. This process of intellectual and spiritual refinement reflects a broader quest for understanding and meaning that continues to resonate in the study of religious and philosophical traditions.