João Rodrigues ‘Tçuzu’: Jesuit Interpreter and Diplomat of the East
Introduction
In the late 16th and early 17th centuries, João Rodrigues ‘Tçuzu,’ a Jesuit priest, traveller, trader, linguist, and diplomat, left an indelible mark on the history of Asia. While many are familiar with his incredible work in Japan, his influence extended far beyond its shores. From his missions in China to his unwavering dedication to Macao, Rodrigues was a multifaceted individual whose contributions shaped the interactions between European Jesuits and Asian nations.
Unveiling the Legacy of João Rodrigues ‘Tçuzu’
Millions of tourists flock to the Ruins of St Paul’s in Macao each year, captivated by the history of this grand structure ravaged by fire in 1835. Yet, amidst the fascination with the remnants of the church, only a few venture to uncover the identity of the notable individual interred there — João Rodrigues ‘Tçuzu,’ one of the most influential Jesuits in history.
Within the Ruins of St Paul’s, the graves of over 200 Jesuits, including Rodrigues, lie hidden, erased by the devastating fire. This Portuguese scholar, priest, missionary, trader, sailor, warrior, linguist, and diplomat played a pivotal role in transforming China and Japan as these nations engaged with European Jesuits during the 16th and 17th centuries. His profound understanding of Japanese culture, language, and people, acquired during his 33 years in Japan, earned him the moniker ‘Tçuzu,’ denoting ‘interpreter’ in Portuguese. However, Rodrigues’s impact extended well beyond Japan, as he brought his knowledge and experiences to Macao, the city that became his final home.
The Early Years
Born in either 1561 or 1562 in the municipality of Sernancelhe, situated in northern Portugal, Rodrigues entered the world during a time when Portugal stood at the forefront of global exploration. At the age of 14, he embarked on a perilous two-year voyage to the East, setting the stage for his significant role in Portugal’s exploration endeavors. It was during this voyage that Rodrigues first encountered Macao, a city that must have stirred a sense of wonder and adventure in the young traveler. However, details about his initial impressions of Macao and the duration of his stay remain scarce. Soon after, in 1577, Rodrigues arrived in Nagasaki, Japan, where he would spend a significant portion of his life.
A Journey of Transformation
Rodrigues faced numerous challenges during his time in Japan. He courageously navigated through battles, experienced famine, and endured the harsh winters of this war-torn land. However, it was in Japan that Rodrigues’s path took a transformative turn as he embraced the Jesuit faith. Officially joining the Catholic Society of Jesus on December 24, 1580, in Usuki, Japan, Rodrigues became part of a mission that aimed to spread Christianity throughout Asia. While the influence of Jesuit missionaries in Macao may have played a role in his decision, it is likely that Rodrigues was profoundly influenced by the flourishing Jesuit mission in Japan. Thus, his journey as a Jesuit marked the true beginning of his remarkable story.
The Significance of Macao
Established in 1565, Macao became the primary base for the Jesuits’ activities in Asia. St Paul’s College, founded in 1594 by the Jesuits, held the distinction of being the first Western university in East Asia. Macao, strategically chosen by the Jesuits as a stronghold for their evangelization efforts in Japan, played a pivotal role in Rodrigues’s life. After completing his theological studies, Rodrigues was ordained as a priest in Macao in 1596. Turbulent times between ruling powers and the Jesuits in Japan, coupled with Rodrigues’s talent as an interpreter, caused interruptions in his studies. His linguistic prowess and close ties with Japanese and Chinese authorities earned him immense respect and opened doors for diplomatic endeavors.
Chinese Exploration
The final years of João Rodrigues in Macao marked a significant shift in his focus and contributions. After his eventful experiences in Japan, where he played a central role in the trade battles and Jesuit-Portuguese relations, Rodrigues arrived in Macao in 1610. At that time, Macao had gained importance in the eyes of the Japanese due to the success of Portuguese silk merchants. However, the Chinese did not yet view Macao as a significant city.
Recognizing the opportunity to elevate Macao’s status in the eyes of Chinese leaders, Rodrigues devoted himself to learning about China and aiding his fellow Jesuits in establishing a presence in the Middle Kingdom. In addition to his diplomatic efforts, Rodrigues wrote extensively during this period. His publications included “The Art of the Japanese Language,” considered the oldest fully extant Japanese grammar work in history, and “The Short Art of the Japanese Language,” which provided concise rules for the language. He also undertook the ambitious task of writing “The History of the Japanese Church,” a comprehensive exploration of Japanese language, history, and culture, which highlighted the holiness of Buddhist monks.
The Chinese Journey
Rodrigues continued his travels throughout China, visiting Christian communities in cities like Beijing, Nanjing, and Hangzhou. During these journeys, he observed the work of his fellow Jesuits and expressed his opinions on how Christianity should be taught in China. In 1615, back in Macao, he played a crucial role as a diplomatic intermediary between the Jesuits and the Chinese authorities. When a Dutch invasion threatened Macao in 1622, Rodrigues successfully convinced the Chinese that the fortifications being built were not a threat. The Jesuits, aided by Rodrigues’ diplomatic efforts, managed to repel the Dutch invaders.
However, Rodrigues faced criticism from some members of the Chinese authorities for his actions. Despite this, he remained actively involved in diplomatic endeavors. In 1630, he accompanied a Portuguese military party and their advanced cannons to Beijing, aiming to assist the Ming Dynasty in defending against the invading Manchu forces. When the group was invited back later that year and Rodrigues ventured to Tengchow, he became caught up in a revolt, witnessing the deaths of his Portuguese companions. In a daring move, the 71-year-old jumped from the fortress walls into the snow below, surviving the fall. He eventually made his way back to Macao in 1633.
The Final Years
In the final years of his life, Rodrigues returned to writing “The History of the Japanese Church” but tragically passed away on August 1, 1633. It was reported that he neglected to address a hernia in time, possibly resulting from the physical hardships he endured during his journeys. Rodrigues’ contributions were recognized even after his death when the Chinese authorities granted the Jesuits land for his burial. Although his final resting place remains uncertain, Rodrigues left a lasting legacy in Macao and beyond.
João Rodrigues, known as ‘Tçuzu,’ was an extraordinary figure who played a significant role in both Japanese and Chinese history, as well as in Jesuit and Portuguese history. His impact can still be felt in Macao, the city where he produced his remarkable works, defended its fortifications, and ultimately found his home. Today, Macao’s inclusion of the Ruins of St. Paul’s on the UNESCO World Heritage List stands as a testament to Rodrigues’ universalism and enduring legacy. Although his name may be unfamiliar to many locals, his remarkable life and accomplishments deserve recognition, as demonstrated by his portrayal in James Clavell’s novel ‘Shōgun.’ João Rodrigues, a man of countless talents and boundless determination, left an indelible mark on the history of Macao and the regions he influenced.
