Stars, dragons and luminous crosses in the Chinese sky. The Jesuit mission’s connected perspective on the supernatural in China (17th century)

The article explores how Jesuit missionaries in 17th century China interpreted extraordinary celestial and natural phenomena, such as comets, earthquakes, and the appearance of dragons, during a period of great political instability. These Jesuits viewed these events as divine signs favoring Christianity, incorporating them into a providential narrative of history. This interpretation served to strengthen their position and promote the spread of Christianity in a very different cultural context. The article highlights how culture and historical context profoundly influence the interpretation of natural and historical events, even within a religious framework.