Methods of Missionary Activity of the Jesuits in Vietnam in the 17th and 18th Centuries

Abstract

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to reproduce precisely and accurately the process of conquering the faith of various social strata in Vietnam by analyzing the missionary methods of evangelization applied by Jesuit missionaries operating in Vietnam in the 17th and 18th centuries. Methods and materials. The author used the original historical materials recorded by Western missionaries working in Vietnam during the 17th and 18th centuries and research works by Vietnamese and international scholars related directly or indirectly to the missionary methods of Jesuits in Vietnam of the 17th and 18th centuries. The author combines the historical and genetic method with other research methods (systemic approach, analysis, synthesis, comparison, etc.). Analysis. In the 17th and 18th centuries, to conquer the faith of the people in Tonkin and Cochinchina (Vietnam), Jesuit missionaries adopted several measures such as establishing relationships and attracting the upper classes to the Christianity, “missionary academic”, “missionary bibliography”, disputes and religious conversion of the leaders of indigenous denominations, etc. These measures have been more or less effective and allow Jesuit missionaries to introduce and develop the Christianity in Vietnam during this period. Results. The research results presented in the article will contribute to the study of the history of Christianity and missionary activities of the Jesuits in Vietnam in the 17th and 18th centuries.