The Figurists’ manuscript translations serve as some of the earliest examples of Global Yijing in the early modern world, showcasing their initial efforts to use the Yijing as divine proof of a common origin within the framework of the prisca theologia. By weaving biblical narratives into the framework of the Yijing, the Jesuit Figurists created a shared intellectual and cultural bridge where elements of Chinese philosophy (numbers, images, principles, and meanings) and Western theology (biblical stories) could coexist and interact. The Figurists’ translations of mystical beasts serve as an example of their early efforts to bridge the gap between the Chinese classics and Christianity; they also highlight their dedication to translating descriptions of mystical Chinese fauna to enhance Western understanding of the Yijing. Reinterpretations by the Figurists also represent a profound example of intertextuality in which they created a dialogue between Christian and Chinese texts, blending theological narratives to facilitate cross-cultural understanding. It extended into later centuries, influencing various movements including theosophical thought and leaving an indelible mark on the intercultural and interreligious dialogues that continue to evolve in contemporary scholarly discourse.

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The Alchemy of Numbers and Beasts in Divine Hidden Codes in the Yijing: The Figurists as Co-Creators of the Global Yijing

  • Sophie Ling-chia Wei

摘要

The Figurists’ manuscript translations serve as some of the earliest examples of Global Yijing in the early modern world, showcasing their initial efforts to use the Yijing as divine proof of a common origin within the framework of the prisca theologia. By weaving biblical narratives into the framework of the Yijing, the Jesuit Figurists created a shared intellectual and cultural bridge where elements of Chinese philosophy (numbers, images, principles, and meanings) and Western theology (biblical stories) could coexist and interact. The Figurists’ translations of mystical beasts serve as an example of their early efforts to bridge the gap between the Chinese classics and Christianity; they also highlight their dedication to translating descriptions of mystical Chinese fauna to enhance Western understanding of the Yijing. Reinterpretations by the Figurists also represent a profound example of intertextuality in which they created a dialogue between Christian and Chinese texts, blending theological narratives to facilitate cross-cultural understanding. It extended into later centuries, influencing various movements including theosophical thought and leaving an indelible mark on the intercultural and interreligious dialogues that continue to evolve in contemporary scholarly discourse.