Abstract

The dance traditions embedded within the intangible cultural heritage of Shaanxi are not merely artistic expressions but also profound carriers of spiritual narratives, ritualistic symbolism, and collective memory. However, the modernization process has led to significant challenges in their preservation, including the aging of inheritors and the weakening of traditional transmission mechanisms. This study explores the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Shaanxi’s intangible dance heritage, emphasizing its role in religious ceremonies, moral teachings, and metaphysical expressions of human connection to the cosmos. Guided by theories of intangible cultural heritage protection and cultural ecology, this research examines the preservation and inheritance of Shaanxi’s traditional dance forms, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. National and provincial intangible cultural heritage dance traditions are systematically analyzed, and an evaluative framework is developed to assess their historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. Using the hierarchical analysis method, the study determines weighted evaluation indices and applies a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model to quantify the value of these dance traditions. The results reveal that Ansai Waist Drum holds exceptional historical and cultural significance (95 points) and strong regional characteristics (95 points), reflecting its deep-rooted ritualistic and communal importance. Similarly, Shaanbei Yangge scores highly in historical and cultural value (85 points) and regional identity (90 points), demonstrating its role in shaping the spiritual consciousness of the local community. In contrast, Huazhou Back Flower Drums face considerable challenges in preservation, with lower scores across cultural value (65), regional significance (75), and innovation potential (50), highlighting the urgent need for renewed conservation efforts. By situating these dance traditions within the broader discourse of religious philosophy and sacred aesthetics, this study argues that Shaanxi’s intangible dance heritage embodies more than artistic expression—it serves as a bridge between past and present, the material and the transcendent. The research proposes targeted preservation strategies that prioritize not only cultural continuity but also the revitalization of the spiritual and philosophical dimensions inherent in these dances. Future research should explore the intersection of ritual, movement, and metaphysical thought in dance traditions, further contributing to the understanding of intangible cultural heritage as a medium of religious and philosophical reflection.