Zhang Xingyao and Tian Ru tongyikao: On the Catholics’ Group-Communication and Self-Identity during early Qing Dynasty

 

Abstract: This essay takes case on Tian Ru Tong Yi Kao, with focusing on the course and the reasons of Zhang Xingyao’s conversion to the Catholic during early Qing dynasty. On the base of researching the contents of Tian Ru Tong Yi Kao, this essay tries to discuss the main structure and the characters of Zhang Xiangyao’s religious identity. This essay takes Tian Ru Tong Yi Kao as the solution to this problem what the Catholics faced during early Qing dynasty, namely how to choose between the faith (catholic) and the tradition (Confucianism)? From Tian Jiao He Ru, Tian Jiao Bu Ru to Tian Jiao Chao Ru, Zhang argues that the catholic not only accords with the Confucianism, but also transcends it in some places. Zhang defines the relationship between Catholic and Confucianism that the Catholic includes the Confucianism at last. Accordingly, Zhang’s religious identity shows dualism,namely at the same time he has Confucianism’s identity and also has Catholic’s identity. According to Zhang, Catholic doesn’t come into conflict with Confucianism. By analyzing Zhang’s discerning his religious identity, it is helpful to understand ulteriorly the thoughts and faith world of common Catholics during Qing dynasty.

Key Words: Tian Ru Tong Yi Kao, Zhang Xingyao, religious identity, He Ru/ Bu Ru/ Chao Ru

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