Orientalism and Reverse Orientalism in the Interactions between Christianity and Confucianism: With Special Reference to the Problem of “Immanence vis-à-vis Transcendence”

Through making references to some inter-disciplinary and cross-cultural studies of “Transcendence” as well the usage relevant terms in contemporary Confucianism Christianity, especially concepts “transcendence” “immanence” (which is translated sometimes nèi zài Chinese), this study attempts challenge prevalent stereotypes Christianity Confucianism. With special historical Christian-Confucian discourses related immanence transcendence, argues that certain features “orientalism” can be found Christian interpretations Confucianism, their tendency downplaying transcendence order highlight fulfillment In contrast interpretations, Confucian tend ignore Christianity. Certain “reverse orientalism” at arguing for superiority through articulating between “external transcendence” (wài chāo yuè) “internal (nèi yuè). This further no matter whether it orientalism or reverse orientalism, these misinterpret not only other’s tradition, but also one’s own, thus hinder communication two traditions.