Born in 1592, von Bell became a Christian at the age of 19. With the accompany of Nicolas Trigault, he came to China in 1620, and arrived in Guangzhou in 1622. Von Bell traveled to Beijing the following year and studied the Chinese language. He preached in both Xian and Nanjing. He was summoned to return to Beijing and took over Jean Terrenz's (1576-1630) position as the History Administrator in editing the 'Book of Annals of Song Zheng'. He also taught the Chinese how to manufacture cannons and astronomical instruments. In 1633, Emperor Song Zheng issued an award to him for his achievements in Astronomy. After the Manchurians took over China, Emperor Sun Zhi gave von Bell the title of 'Ma Fa' which means 'the respected'. Von Bell built his church in Xuan Wumen. In 1664, von Bell was imprisoned because of the Calendar Case and was set free in 1665. Von Bell died in Beijing the following year. He had written many books, including, 'The Origin of Catholicism', 'Brief History of Christian Missionaries', and 'Historica Narratio ex Litteris Joannis Adami Schall'.

---

Bookmark This Page

Send This Page To A Friend



Place Your Ad Here For As Little As $1 Per Day

Home | Arts | Books | Cooking | Entertainment | Games | Genealogy | Gifts | Health | History | Kids | Literatures | Music | News | Religion | Society | Software | Sports | Tea | Travel | Weightloss | Zodiac
About Us | Add URL | Advertise with Us | Auction | Awards | Contact Us | Discussion Forum | Links | Search This Site | Send This Page | Shop | Top Ten Sites
Copyright 2000 Yutopian, All Rights Reserved
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .