Question

Using the example of Robert de nobili in India or that of Matteo ricci in China,describes the strategy employed to communicate the Christian message in the 7th century.Were people responsive to their methods why?

Answer 1

Robert de Nobili in India or that of Matteo Ricci in China had a common approach to preach Christianity: through local adaptation. De Nobili and Ricci both mastered local languages and had in-depth knowledge of the Hinduism and Confucian values respectively. They both adapted to the local method of dressing, including shaving of head as in the case of De Nobili. They both borrowed local terms to communicate the Christian message. Both of them were respectful and supportive of the local customs and contributed to literature and philosophic discourse of that country

Extreme adaptation to local culture helped these missionaries be accepted by the high priestly castes into the religious discourses. It also helped them to relate to the general masses better and helped them preach the Christian message without the cultural shock which would have been there had they not adapted