The Edict of the Emperor of China Relative to Christianity and Christians (1846)

Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: Saturday, March 21, 1846.

Keysing, Imperial Commissionaer, and Viceroy of Canton and Kwang se provinces, respectfully memorializes [the Emperor] as follows:

It appears that the religion of the Lord of Heaven is honored and observed by the various nations of Europe, mainly with the view of exhorting to the practice of virtue and repressing vice. Ever since the Ming dynasty, it has made its way into China, and has not yet been prohibited, but because some of the adherents of that religion in China have made a handle of their religion to act viciously, therefore the officers of government, on discovering the same, have punished them, as is on record. During the reign of the Emperor Keaking, it was first determined to distinguish these and punish them for their offenses, the sole object of which regulation was to prevent the professors of the said religion in China, from practicing wickedness, and not with the view of issuing prohibitions against the religion of foreign and European nations. Now, according to the request of the envoy of the French nation, Lagrene, that the various professors of the said religion in China, should be exonerated from blame, it appears suitable to secede thereto; and it is proper to request that the henceforth, with regard to all persons, whether Chinese or foreigners, professing the religion of the Lord of Heaven, who do not create disturbances, nor act improperly, it is humbly entreated of the Imperial benevolence to grant that they should be exonerated from blame. But if such persons resume their former ways, and, independently of their professions, commit other crimes and misdemeanors, then they will be dealt with according to existing laws. With regard to the French, and the subjects of other foreign nations, who profess the aforesaid religion, it is only permitted them to build churches at the five ports opened for foreign commerce, and they most not improperly enter the inner land to diffuse their faith. Should they offend against the regulations, and overstep the boundaries, the local offices, as soon as they can apprehend them, shall immediately deliver them over to the consuls of the different nations to be punished. But they must not rashly inflict upon them the punishment of death. This is in order to manifest a tender regard for the common people, so the wheel and the chaff is not confusedly mixed together and that reason and law may be equitably administered. That which is requested is, that the good and honest professor of the aforementioned religion may be exempt from punishment; it is reasonable, therefore, that a respectful memorial be presented, intreating that by the Imperial favor the above suggestions may be carried into effect.

On the 24th year of Toan Kwang, 11th month, 19th Day, (Dec. 1844,) was received the imperial reply, saying,

“LET IT BE AS REQUESTED. RESPECT THIS.”

On the 12th month, and the 25th day, (Feb 1, 1845,) the order arrived at Sachow, (capital of Keaugnan.)