sage learning of Liu Zhi, The

Book Description

This remarkable work opens a window into one of history's most fascinating intellectual bridges between spiritual traditions. Liu Zhi, a prominent Islamic scholar in early 18th-century China, accomplished something extraordinary: he presented the fundamental principles of Islam through the philosophical language and concepts of Neo-Confucianism, creating a unique synthesis that spoke to both traditions.

At the heart of this translation lies Liu Zhi's "Tianfang xingli" (Nature and Principle in Islam), a text that explores the essential roots of Islamic thought while drawing deeply from Sufi wisdom. What makes this work particularly compelling for spiritual seekers is how it demonstrates the possibility of finding common ground between seemingly different wisdom traditions without compromising the integrity of either.

Sachiko Murata's translation brings this cross-cultural spiritual dialogue to English readers for the first time, accompanied by extensive commentary that illuminates the rich intellectual heritage behind Liu's approach. The work reveals how Islamic metaphysics and philosophy can be understood through Confucian frameworks, offering insights into universal spiritual principles that transcend cultural boundaries.

For those interested in comparative spirituality, Islamic mysticism, or the meeting points between Eastern and Western thought, this scholarly yet accessible work provides a rare glimpse into how great spiritual minds have historically found unity within diversity. The extensive annotations help readers navigate the complex philosophical terrain while appreciating the profound wisdom embedded in this remarkable synthesis.