Longzhong Rite of "Dispersing Evil Spirits by Standing Chopsticks in a Water Bowl": Its Folk Imagery and Features

The rite of "Dispersing Evil Spirits by Standing Chopsticks in a Water Bowl" performed by Longzhong (Middle of Gansu province) people to cure diseases is a certain form of "Rites of Praying for Good and Dispersing Bad", in which water bowls and chopsticks are used, spitting is adopted and crossroads are chosen. The utensil used, the means adopted and the location chosen contain certain folk imagery. The analysis of this essay unveils the fact that the rite has the features of social relations, daily activities, blending and integration of multiple space and time and the general reality basis.