Robert Morrison was a Scottish missionary and sinologist who made significant contributions to the study and translation of Chinese literature and language. Born on January 5, 1782, in Bullers of Buchan, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, he dedicated his life to the diffusion of Christian teachings and the spread of knowledge about China.
Morrison is renowned for his work in translating the Bible into Chinese. He arrived in Canton (now Guangzhou) in 1807, facing immense challenges due to China's restrictive policies towards foreigners. Despite the language barrier and the limited resources available to him, Morrison persevered, creating a groundbreaking dictionary and grammar of the Chinese language that served as a foundation for future Sinological studies. This monumental effort eventually led to the publication of his translation of the New Testament in 1813 and the entire Bible in 1823.
Beyond his linguistic achievements, Robert Morrison played a crucial role in promoting Western scientific and technical knowledge in China. He introduced various scientific instruments, such as the sextant, and provided vital information on Western mathematics, geography, and medicine. As the translator of numerous scientific books into Chinese, he facilitated the exchange of knowledge between East and West.
Morrison's efforts to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps left an indelible mark on the field of sinology and paved the way for future generations of scholars to delve deeper into Chinese literature, history, and philosophy. His work significantly impacted the understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture around the world, making him a highly respected figure in both religious and academic spheres.
