[251] It is perhaps still necessary to explain that in spite of the honorary epithets heaped on Confucius by imperial decree (as in the decree that confers upon him an "equality with heaven and earth"), Confucius _is not worshipped as a god_. This was frankly admitted by Prof. Legge in his later years. "I used to think," he said, "that Confucius in this service received religious worship, and denounced it. But I was wrong. What he received was the homage of gratitude, and not the worship of adoration." "The Religion of China" in _Religious Systems of the World_ (8th ed.), p. 72. [252] _Great Religions of the World: Confucianism_, pp. 28-9. (Harper & Bros., 1901.) [253] Many missionaries have taken a very different view. Perhaps they are right and the opinions expressed in this chapter erroneous--let me hasten to disclaim any intention to dogmatise. However this may be, I cannot but think that missionaries have not studied, respectfully and tactfully, the susceptibilities of the proud and ancient people whom they wish to proselytise when they hint at the approaching dissolution of their Empire and hold out Christianity to them as a consolation for the loss of their nationality and all that their forefathers have held dear. "Disorganisation," says Dr. Legge, "will go on to destroy it [China] more and more, and yet there is hope for the people ... _if they will look away from all their ancient sages_, and turn to Him, who sends them, _along with the dissolution of their ancient state_, the knowledge of Himself, the only living and true God, and of Jesus Christ whom He had sent." Is it to be wondered at that the rulers of China look askance at a foreign religion the God of which intends to send them--however sweetly the bitter pill may be coated--_the dissolution of their ancient state_? Perhaps there are still missionaries who would give their approval to these extraordinary words, but fortunately there are laymen who take quite a different view of China's "ancient sages" whom Dr. Legge recommends the Chinese to reject. "Never, perhaps, in the history of the human race," says Mr. Lionel Giles, writing of Confucius, "has one man exerted such an enormous influence for good on after-generations." (_The Sayings of Confucius_, p. 118.) Yet this is one of the sages from whom we invite the Chinese to "look away"! [254] See Mr. L. Giles's Introduction to his translation of _The Sayings of Confucius_, p. 12. [255] _Op. cit._ p 26. [256] Dr. W. E. Griffis, _The Religions of Japan_ (4th ed.), p. 108. [257] _Op. cit._ p. 110. [258] _The Churches and Modern Thought_ (2nd ed.), p. 38. [259] _Op. cit._ pp. 398-9. One is sorely tempted to ask the question, "Then why not leave well alone?"