東西方哲學之宗教向度III：義理、典範、象徵-成神與成聖：儒耶對話新猷(1/3)

The aim of this research proposal is to suggest an alternative approach toward the dialogue and communion between Confucianism and Christianity through introducing the notion of theosis (θέωσις, deification) of the theology of Orthodox Church and rethinking the Confucian discourse on striving for sageliness. Firstly, this proposal reviews the discussions and interpretations of the concept of theosis given by the Church Fathers such as St. Irenaeus and St. Athanasius, and the contemporary theologians such as Thomas F. Torrance and John Zizioulas, with a special focus on their anthropology and vision of the God-human relationship. Then, this proposal moves to the Confucian thought of striving for sageliness, revisit its relevant treatises concerning human nature and its vision of Heaven-human relationship to exhibit its rich implications and to rethink its significance in modern times. Based on the foregoing exploration, this proposal compares the theological doctrine of theosis of Orthodox Church and the Confucian thesis of striving for sageliness to seek for an alternative approach toward the dialogue and communion between Confucianism and Christianity.