Disability Theology Despite Itself

Abstract

This article examines the biography, literature, and religious thought of Shi Tiesheng (1951–2010), arguably the most influential author with a disability in contemporary China. Using the definition of “theology” in its broad sense, it argues that Shi has developed a kind of disability theology through his non-fiction and fictional works, though he never claimed to be a theologian or saw his works as theological. This theology borrows terms and ideas from Christianity, but also follows the syncretic tradition of Chinese religions. In contemporary China, where religions have been marginalized, religious vocabulary and contemplation helped Shi break free of the narrative assigned to people with disabilities by the atheist state.