The Liji from a Jewish Perspective: An Exploration of Challenges and Approaches in Comparing Jewish and Confucian Classics

Abstract

This article adopts a Jewish perspective to explore the methodologies and challenges in the comparative study of the Liji (Book of Rites) and Jewish classical texts. It proposes two comparative pathways: first, at the textual-structural level, comparing the Liji with the rabbinic legal code known as the Mishnah to analyze their similarities in editorial logic, thematic classification, and hermeneutic methods; second, at the spiritual-conceptual level, juxtaposing the concept of li (ritual propriety) in the Liji with that of covenant (berit) in the Hebrew Bible, examining their philosophical commonalities and differences in constructing social order, addressing real-world challenges, and pursuing an ideal world. Although Confucian and Jewish traditions differ significantly in historical context, textual genre, and religious framework, a careful selection of appropriate comparative texts and core concepts, coupled with in-depth structural and conceptual analysis, can reveal potential spaces for dialogue and scholarly value in Jewish-Confucian cultural exchange.