The world’s civilization is experiencing a Western decline. Over the coming decades, the center of gravity will shift to the East: India, China, and Japan. Once Xi Jinping falls in China, Confucius will surely be revived; India is rising strongly; Japanese civilization is of higher quality than the West.

In the 16th century, belief in God experienced internal conflict, splitting into Protestantism and Catholicism. Imperial authority declined, national governments rose, each acting independently, leading to continuous wars. This setback in faith caused modern stagnation, which must be remedied through the work of Matteo Ricci, integrating Confucian thought to restore faith.

The foundation of civilization lies in religion. Islam has maintained strong growth in modern times; Hinduism and Buddhism possess high quality; Christianity, through Matteo Ricci’s integration with Confucius, represents hope. The union of these three major religions embodies the aspiration for world peace.

Zhong Wen, 92 years old
May 20, 2024