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.

“伊儒會通”

自明清始，一批精通伊斯蘭文化且熟諳中華文化的中國穆斯林學者開展了以著譯為標志的“伊儒會通”活動，對伊斯蘭文化進行漢語翻譯和編撰，以期將外來伊斯蘭文化與儒家文化為主體的本土文化相會通。其主要代表人物是王岱輿、馬注、劉智、馬德新等，代表作品有《正教真詮》《清真大學》《希真正答》《天方性理》《天方典禮》《天方至圣實錄》《清真指南》和《大化總歸》等。

“伊儒會通”既是伊斯蘭教在中國生根發展的現實需要，也是基于中國穆斯林知識分子對中華文化的強烈認同。其核心精神在于引導不同文明及其載體之間的交往交流交融，體現了中華文明兼收并蓄的基本態度，對促進伊斯蘭教中國化產生了深遠的影響。