Why did China have the custom of burning incense in ancient times?

Burning incense is a very important link in China traditional culture. On various occasions, whether celebrating, offering sacrifices or seeking asylum, people will use incense to express their respect and prayers. So why do people in China have such a custom?

First of all, we need to know the religious beliefs and philosophical thoughts about burning incense in ancient China. In Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and other ideological systems, there are discussions about burning incense. Among them, the most famous is the sentence "Being clear in the world can promote my sincerity" in Zhouyi. This sentence means to purify the soul by burning incense, express sincerity and get the blessing of the gods or heaven.

Secondly, in the traditional society of China, it is generally believed that burning incense can play a role in exorcising evil spirits. It was generally believed in ancient times that there were all kinds of supernatural beings, monsters and ghosts in the world, and burning incense could drive away these evil forces by emitting fragrance.

In addition, in the traditional culture of China, burning incense is symbolic. People think that burning incense can show respect and commemoration for ancestors or heroes. When worshipping ancestors or heroes, people will light a incense, say their prayers or say their feelings.

Finally, in modern society, burning incense has become a cultural symbol and tourist attraction. Many temples, Taoist temples and historical sites are places where tourists come to visit, burn incense and make wishes.

In a word, the custom of burning incense in ancient China was formed by many factors. Religious beliefs, philosophical thoughts and folk traditions have had a far-reaching impact on this custom. In modern society, although people pay less attention to religious belief, as a cultural symbol and traditional custom, burning incense still occupies an important position in China society.