Transpostion of Bodyhood: the Idolatrous Procession and Rural Basketball Game in Shishi

Zhao Maner

Published in Open Times, 2024, Issue 3.

Abstract: This paper focuses on the relationship between rural basketball game and folk beliefs in Shishi City, Fujian Province, and discusses the internal logic and historical process of the interaction and integration of the two. Two transformations are noteworthy. Basketball was introduced to China in the early 20th century, initially conveying a modern understanding of the body, and later becoming a way to shape the citizens' bodies of a new nation under the influence of nationalism. Since the 80s, it has been increasingly absorbed by traditional folk beliefs and ceremonies, and has become a common part of the idolatrous procession. This complex historical process not only reflects the conflict and mutual transformation between locality and modernity, but also shows the endogenous power of folk beliefs to absorb and integrate other cultural forms.

Keywords: idolatrous procession, rural sports, basketball game