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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.

Tianwen Editorial Team February 7, 2026 97 min read PDF Markdown
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

Section 8: The Complete Steps of Cultivation Practice

Synthesizing the discussion in this section, we can summarize the complete sequence of cultivation steps described in the Neiye chapter:

  1. Respectfully clear the dwelling place (Jìng chú qí shě): Cleanse the body-mind, removing distracting thoughts and desires (Preparation Stage).
  2. Essence will come on its own (Jīng jiāng zì lái): Essence/Vital Energy naturally arrives in the pure body-mind (Initial Resonance).
  3. Ponder it with concentrated essence (Jīng xiǎng sī zhī): Exert effort by thinking of Essence with sincere essence (Effort Stage).
  4. Govern it with peaceful thoughts (Níng niàn zhì zhī): Stabilize Essence with tranquil contemplation (Settling Stage).
  5. With a stern countenance and reverence (Yán róng wèi jìng): Maintain a solemn outward demeanor and inner reverence (Simultaneous Cultivation of Form and Mind).
  6. Essence will attain stability (Jīng jiāng zhì dìng): Essence/Vital Energy reaches a settled state (Deep Stabilization).
  7. Obtain it and do not discard it (Dé zhī ér wù shě): Preserve the Essence without slackening (Preservation Stage).
  8. Let the ears and eyes not be licentious, let the mind have no other aims (Ěr mù bù yín, xīn wú tā tú): Control the senses and focus the mind (Method of Preservation).
  9. Rectify the mind within the Center (Zhèng xīn zài yú zhōng): The upright mind securely resides in the inner core (Ultimate Achievement).
  10. All things attain their measure (Wànwù dé dù): All things attain their proper standard and proportion (Ultimate Effect).

These ten steps, from preparation to achievement, from the individual to the world, form a complete system of cultivation. Its logic is clear, its hierarchy distinct, and its methods concrete, making it a paradigm of Pre-Qin cultivation theory.