Mulan is filled with references towards religion and spirituality especially many of the traditions, practices, and values of East Asian religions. A reoccurring religious theme that is continuously referenced in the film involves recurring prayer to and mention of, the Fa family's ancestors. In the beginning of the film Mulan, her father, her mother, and her grandmother are all either directly praying or refer to praying to their ancestors on occasions. In the film the ancestors are seen coming to life as ghost life figures who discuss how to give Mulan guidance when she leaves for the army. Spirituality and religion are also depicted through the characters Yao and Chien-Po who practice religious meditation and chanting for relaxation. This film reflects the nature of the Chinese religion and culture by making many references to and emphasizing "upholding the family honor". There are also illustrations of the principle of filial piety, the respect towards your parents, elders, and ancestors and compassion that are crucial to Confucianism and Buddhism. The principle of compassion is shown in the scene where Shang, the commanding officer, spares Mulan's life when it is revealed that she is a woman. Prior to this scene, she saved his life and he overrides what he is legally obliged to do which is killing her. The religious values that are presented of East Asian religions are depicted positively, however, there is American culture individuality displayed in the film with Mulan going to war for father, but also to be herself and prove to herself her ability and value.
Mushu was once a guardian spirit of Mulan's family, but he had been demoted to the humiliating position of an incense burner and gong-ringer for the deceased Fa ancestors ever since he failed to protect a family member, a soldier named Fa Deng, resulting in the soldier's demise by decapitation. When Mushu was awaken by the ancestors he became Mulans closest companion throughout the movie, acting as Mulan's guardian, protector and in a sense shaman.
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