The Basset-Su Chinese New Testament

Abstract

<p>This chapter examines the first Chinese New Testament translated by the M.E.P. missionary Jean Basset (1662–1707) in collaboration with the Confucian convert Johan Su (?–1734) in the early Qing period. Though they did not complete a full translation of the New Testament, the work carried unique features that went beyond the limitations of its time. One of the original manuscripts also exerted direct influence on 19^th-century Protestant translations. With in-depth analysis of this exemplary piece among the early Catholic endeavours, the article addresses the key concerns that have not been sufficiently studied before, including the distinct vision of a Chinese Bible, translation principle and techniques, Christian and Chinese terminology, and the interface of biblical translations and Chinese language and literature. The major findings in this study will offer fresh insights and facilitate a re-evaluation of Catholic contributions and legacy in the history of the Bible in China.</p>