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#Guanzi Neiye #Pre-Qin Philosophy #Discerning Shen and Zhi #Cultivation of Mind and Character #Huang-Lao Thought
An Analysis of 'Shen' and 'Zhi' in the Core Passage of Guanzi: Neiye, and an Inquiry into Pre-Qin Philosophy of Mind and Human Nature
This article offers a deep reading of the core passage in the Guanzi: Neiye — 'That which can transform a single thing is called shen (spirit); that which can adapt to a single affair is called zhi (wisdom)' — systematically tracing the philosophical categories of shen, zhi, jing, qi, and dao in the pre-Qin era, elucidating their pivotal role in the cultivation of mind and character and in the Way of inner sageliness and outer kingliness, striving to recover the original intent of the ancients.
Chapter Eleven: "Reverentially Cleanse Its Abode, and the Essence Will Come of Itself" to "Attain It and Do Not Let It Go"
This is the core of the Neiye's practical cultivation theory. The complete steps:
- Reverentially cleanse its abode -- purify body and mind. (Preparation)
- The essence will come of itself -- vital essence arrives naturally. (Initial response)
- Think upon it with utmost sincerity -- contemplate with wholehearted devotion. (Exertion)
- Calm your thoughts and bring it to order -- settle the mind in tranquil awareness. (Settling)
- Keep a solemn countenance and reverent awe -- maintain a grave bearing. (Body-mind parallel cultivation)
- The essence will reach perfect stillness -- vital essence stabilizes. (Deep settling)
- Attain it and do not let it go -- guard the essence. (Maintenance)
- Let the ears and eyes not wander; let the mind harbor no other designs -- restrain the senses; unify the mind. (Method of maintenance)
- With the upright mind in the center -- the upright mind abides in the innermost center. (Final attainment)
- All things attain their proper measure -- all things find their rightful proportion. (Ultimate effect)