Meaning: The quote by Hu Shih, a renowned Chinese philosopher, sheds light on the approach adopted by the Jesuits in their mission to China. It emphasizes the significance of demonstrating the superiority of European culture to the Chinese intelligentsia in order to succeed in their Christian mission. To truly understand the depth of this quote, it is crucial to delve into the historical context and the interactions between the Jesuits and China during that period.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Jesuits played a significant role in the spread of Christianity across the globe, including in China. The Jesuit missionaries, including figures such as Matteo Ricci and Adam Schall von Bell, sought to establish a Christian presence in China and engage with the Chinese intelligentsia. However, they faced numerous challenges due to the stark cultural differences between Europe and China.

Hu Shih's quote encapsulates the strategic approach taken by the Jesuits, highlighting their recognition of the need to bridge the cultural gap and gain the acceptance of the Chinese elite in order to effectively propagate their religious beliefs. This approach involved not only religious evangelism but also the presentation of European knowledge, science, and culture as a means to gain credibility and influence among the Chinese intelligentsia.

The Jesuits understood that their mission could not succeed solely through religious doctrine and dogma. Instead, they recognized the importance of engaging with the intellectual and cultural elite of China, who held significant influence in shaping the societal and political landscape of the country. By demonstrating the superiority of European culture, particularly in the realms of science, mathematics, and philosophy, the Jesuits aimed to establish a platform for dialogue and exchange with the Chinese intelligentsia.

This approach was exemplified by the Jesuits' emphasis on scientific knowledge and their efforts to introduce European advancements in astronomy, mathematics, and technology to the Chinese court and scholars. Matteo Ricci, in particular, gained recognition for his mastery of Chinese language and culture, as well as his ability to engage in scholarly debates with Chinese intellectuals while advocating for the compatibility of Christianity with Confucian values.

Hu Shih's quote also reflects the broader historical context of cultural exchange and interaction between Europe and China during the early modern period. The Jesuits were not only missionaries but also intermediaries of knowledge and culture, facilitating the exchange of ideas, technologies, and worldviews between the East and the West.

In essence, the quote underscores the Jesuits' recognition of the importance of cultural diplomacy and intellectual engagement in their mission to China. It speaks to the complexity of their endeavor, as they navigated the intricate web of Chinese society and sought to establish a meaningful and enduring presence in the country. Ultimately, the Jesuits' approach represented a convergence of religious evangelism, cultural exchange, and intellectual dialogue, shaped by the understanding that the success of their mission hinged on their ability to engage with and convince the Chinese intelligentsia of the value and superiority of European culture.