Convergence of Islam and Confucianism

Convergence of Islam and Confucianism

In the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1616-1911) dynasties, a group of Chinese Muslim scholars who were well-versed in both Islamic and Chinese cultures began fostering the confluence of Islam and Confucianism. These initiatives facilitated the convergence of Islamic culture and Confucianism by producing translation and compilations of Islamic teachings in Chinese. Key figures included Wang Daiyu, Ma Zhu, Liu Zhi, Ma Dexin, and others. Well-known works included A True Explanation of the Right Religion (Zhengjiao Zhenquan), The Great Learning of Islam (Qingzhen Daxue), Rare and True Answers (Xizhen Zhengda) , The Natures and Principles of Islam (Tianfang Xingli), The Rites of Islam (Tianfang Dianli), The Real Record of the Last Prophet of Islam (Tianfang Zhisheng Shilu), The Compass of Islam (Qingzhen Zhinan), and Final Destiny of the Universe (Dahua Zonggui).

Practically speaking, so many Chinese Muslim intellectuals strongly identifying with Chinese culture ensured the convergence of Islam and Confucianism and helped Islam take root in China. The situation created a conducive atmosphere for civilizations and their elements to flow and mingle with one another. These gains testified to the openness and inclusiveness of Chinese civilization towards others and exerted far-reaching influence on the Sinicization of Islam.

“伊儒会通”

自明清始，一批精通伊斯兰文化且熟谙中华文化的中国穆斯林学者开展了以著译为标志的“伊儒会通”活动，对伊斯兰文化进行汉语翻译和编撰，以期将外来伊斯兰文化与儒家文化为主体的本土文化相会通。其主要代表人物是王岱舆、马注、刘智、马德新等，代表作品有《正教真诠》《清真大学》《希真正答》《天方性理》《天方典礼》《天方至圣实录》《清真指南》和《大化总归》等。

“伊儒会通”既是伊斯兰教在中国生根发展的现实需要，也是基于中国穆斯林知识分子对中华文化的强烈认同。其核心精神在于引导不同文明及其载体之间的交往交流交融，体现了中华文明兼收并蓄的基本态度，对促进伊斯兰教中国化产生了深远的影响。