Ricci's "The True Meaning of the Lord of Heaven"

Ricci’s "The True Meaning of the Lord of Heaven" explores the concept of God in the context of Chinese thought, emphasizing that the divine embodies moral authority, compassion, and harmony with nature. He argues that understanding the "Lord of Heaven" requires appreciating these virtues rather than viewing God as a distant, punitive figure. Ricci seeks to bridge Christian ideas with Chinese philosophy, highlighting common moral values and spiritual principles. Ultimately, he aims to show that true reverence involves aligning one's life with moral integrity and harmony with the divine order, fostering genuine understanding across cultural and religious boundaries.