A Dialectical Analysis of the Tripartite Qualities of 'Dao' in the Guanzi: Intricacy, Expansion, and Solidity
This paper provides an in-depth interpretation of the opening discourse on 'Dao' in the *Guanzi: Neiye*, analyzing the connotations and dialectical unity of its tripartite qualities: 'intricacy necessitates density, expansion necessitates ease, and solidity necessitates firmness.' It further explores their significance for self-cultivation and mental governance within the context of Pre-Qin and ancient thought.
III. "When moderation and appropriateness are in harmony" (节适之齐) — The Unity of Moderation and Appropriateness
"Jie" (节) means restraint. "Shi" (适) means appropriate. "Qi" (齐) means orderly or harmonious. "Jie shi zhi qi" (节适之齐) means the harmonious unity of moderation and appropriateness.
"Moderation" emphasizes limits—not exceeding a certain degree. "Appropriateness" emphasizes being just right—being at the optimal point. The unity of the two means being neither insufficient nor excessive, achieving a perfect state.
Laozi, Chapter Twenty-Nine, states: "Therefore, the sage avoids extremity, avoids extravagance, avoids arrogance." Avoiding extremity, extravagance, and arrogance is "moderation and appropriateness in harmony."