Mohism as a Weapon to Criticise Confucianism: Navigating the Complex Dynamics between Christianity and Confucianism in Nineteenth-Century China

The relationship between Christianity and Confucianism in China has been complex and multifaceted. Since the introduction of Christianity in the seventh century, these two belief systems have interacted in various ways, ranging from conflict to accommodation. However, it was in the nineteenth century that a significant discovery had a profound impact on the evangelistic policy of missionaries in China. This discovery involved the works of Mozi, an influential pre-Qin Chinese philosopher who openly criticised Confucianism. In this article, we will delve into how these nineteenth-century missionaries astutely utilised Mohist philosophy as a potent tool to challenge Confucianism, marking a departure from the earlier approach of accommodation. By analysing this historical development, this article deepens the understanding of the complexities involved in interlingual transmission and sheds light on the challenges faced by missionaries in navigating the clash of ideologies between Christianity and Confucianism in China.