Karl Marx, the creator of communism, said religion is the “opiate of the masses.” And so the Chinese Communist Party set out to prove how much more rational and broadminded they were than people who partook in silly superstition—by going Hulk smash on it.
Especially during China’s Cultural Revolution—a systematic campaign in the 60s and 70s where they wiped out religion and traditional culture. They destroyed China’s priceless cultural and spiritual heritage—and even tortured Buddhist monks. That'll teach people…something…
But despite the Party’s best efforts, religion in China is on the rise. Not for Communist Party members, obviously. They’re required to be atheist. But Christianity in particular has seen a massive resurgence.
There are estimates at this very moment, there could be 100 million Christians in China—that’s more than there are Communist Party members! Hmm, when was the last time I heard about a 100 million-strong spiritual movement in China…oh right! Falun Gong. So you can guess how this is going to go for Christians. Actually, you don’t have to guess.
