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Remembering John Rabe: A Beacon of Humanity

On September 3, 2025, a spectacular military parade took place in Beijing's Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of China's victory in the People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. This significant event was made even more poignant by the presence of Thomas Rabe, the grandson of John Rabe, who represented foreign friends who contributed to China's struggle during the war. Standing tall amongst the parade, Thomas honored his grandfather's efforts during one of the darkest times in China's modern history.

A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

John Rabe arrived in China in 1908 as a representative of the German company Siemens, where he spent nearly three decades building deep connections with the Chinese community. His life took a dramatic turn with the onset of the Second Sino-Japanese War, particularly during the horrific Nanjing Massacre in 1937. In an extraordinary act of bravery, Rabe, along with more than 20 international residents, established the International Safety Zone, which became a refuge for approximately 250,000 Chinese civilians amid the chaos.

Rabe’s commitment to protecting human lives was not only professional; it was deeply personal. He opened his own home to over 600 refugees, saving them from the massacre that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. “I have received an unexpected Christmas gift—the lives of over 600 people,” Rabe penned in his diary, which captured the atrocities he witnessed. This diary has since become a crucial historical document shedding light on Japan's war crimes during that era.

Chinese President Xi Jinping acknowledged Rabe's extraordinary humanitarian efforts during a speech in 2014, affirming that, “In China, we cherish the memory of Mr. Rabe as a man who demonstrated great compassion for life and love of peace.” This sentiment was echoed by many at the time; on New Year’s Day in 1938, refugees bowed to Rabe, presenting him with a red silk banner that read, “You are the living Buddha for hundreds of thousands of Chinese people.”

The John Rabe House: A Historical Landmark

Today, the John Rabe House in Nanjing stands as a testament to Rabe's legacy. It attracts visitors and historians from around the globe who wish to pay their respects and learn about this painful chapter in history. Yang Shanyou, director of the John Rabe and International Safety Zone Memorial Hall, emphasizes that the site is not just a historical landmark but also a center for educational programs advocating the spirit of humanitarianism and peace.

A Family’s Commitment to Humanitarianism

The values instilled by John Rabe have resonated through generations. Thomas Rabe highlighted the importance of kindness and responsibility, stating, “Everyone should think about what they can do for others.” He has taken it upon himself to ensure the diaries, which document the atrocities of the Nanjing Massacre, are preserved and their truths shared.

In 1996, Rabe's granddaughter, Ursula Reinhardt, published those diaries, revealing the harrowing details of the events in Nanjing to the world. Such endeavors have not come without risks; Thomas recalls the family’s safety being threatened for their commitment to sharing Rabe's story.

Yet, facing danger, they remain resolute, embodying the very spirit their grandfather exemplified. “My father inherited the diaries and archives from my grandfather, which I later donated to China’s Central Archives,” Thomas mentioned, continuing the legacy of preservation.

In collaboration with friends in Germany and China, Thomas created “Rabe and China,” a book that chronicles John Rabe’s life and experiences in China, furthering the discourse on peace and collaboration. He aims to spread Rabe’s humanitarian spirit through six John Rabe Communication Centers worldwide, fostering dialogue on peace and friendship.

Lessons from History

Reflecting on the importance of remembering history, Thomas Rabe emphasized that acknowledging the past is crucial for future reconciliation. “Only by accepting what really happened can nations move forward,” he stated. It’s a critical lesson from history—one that underscores why we must not forget the consequences of war and the enduring need for humanitarian efforts.

In remembering John Rabe, we keep alive the ideals of compassion, bravery, and humanity that transcended wartime atrocities. These values serve as a beacon for future generations, inspiring them to act with kindness and to stand against injustice, just as Rabe did several decades ago.