A Critical Analysis of 'Shen' and 'Zhi' in the Core Passages of the Guanzi's 'Nei Ye' and an Inquiry into Pre-Qin Theories of Mind and Nature
This paper offers an in-depth interpretation of the central passage in the *Guanzi*'s 'Nei Ye'—'That which can transform one thing is called *Shen* (Spirit/Divine); that which can change one affair is called *Zhi* (Wisdom)'—systematically reviewing the philosophical concepts of *Shen*, *Zhi*, *Jing* (Essence), *Qi* (Vital Force), and the *Dao* in the Pre-Qin period to elucidate their pivotal role in self-cultivation and the integration of inner sageliness with outer kingship.
Section 2: Analyzing the Concept of "Shénmíng" (Spirit-Clarity) in Pre-Qin Texts
"Shénmíng" is a critically important concept in Pre-Qin literature.
(1) "Shén" in "Shénmíng"
As analyzed previously, Shén in the Pre-Qin context refers to the mysterious operative force transcending sensory cognition. The Yijing states: "That which Yin and Yang cannot fathom is called Shén." Unfathomable means it cannot be measured by conventional means, including rational thought.
(2) "Míng" (Clarity) in "Shénmíng"
"Míng" means brightness or clear perception. The Laozi, Chapter 33, states: "He who knows others is intelligent (Zhì); he who knows himself is enlightened (Míng)." Míng is higher than Zhì—Zhì is the ability to cognize others and external things, whereas Míng is the ability to cognize the self and the primordial source.
(3) "Shénmíng" Combined
When Shén and Míng are combined as Shénmíng, it refers to a mental state that is both transcendent of conventional cognition (Shén) and sharply perceptive (Míng).
The Zhuangzi, Tianxia chapter asks: "How does Spirit (Shén) descend$2 How does Clarity (Míng) emerge$3" The answer is "all originate from the One (Yī)"—both derive from the "One."
The Guanzi, Xinshu Shang states: "Empty its desires, and Spirit will enter the dwelling. Sweep away the unclean, and Spirit will then reside." Shén is like a noble guest who will only enter a clean dwelling (a purified mind).
"The apex of Spirit-Clarity" (Shénmíng zhī jí)—When both Shén and Míng reach their highest state, one can "illuminate and know all things" (zhào hū zhī wànwù)—to cognize all things in a way that transcends conventional means.