This groundbreaking translation of Matteo Ricci’s Treatise on Friendship brings to light a rare cross-cultural masterpiece that unites Ming Dynasty Confucian ideals with European Renaissance humanism.

This translation contains Ricci’s original 76 maxims, a few of which were combined for readability. While newer editions contained additional maxims attributed to Ricci, this edition preserves the original 76 maxims penned by Ricci and published in earlier editions from the early 1600’s.

Ricci, a Jesuit scholar from the West who immersed himself in Chinese culture during the 16th century, composed this deeply moving work as a tribute to the enduring values of honor, mutual respect, and moral duty in friendship. With contributions from Chinese scholar-officials and a modern foreword by author and counselor Mark Linden O’Meara, this edition bridges two great civilizations through the universal language of heartfelt connection.

Whether you’re a reader of Chinese philosophy, Christian ethics, or simply seeking wisdom on building lasting relationships, this timeless work offers a profound lens on the ethical and emotional foundations of friendship.