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 6: The Mind (Xīn)
The "Mind" appears multiple times: "Governing the mind resides in the Center," "The Mind cannot be governed," "Not allowing the senses to disrupt the Mind," "Let the mind have no other aims," "Rectify the mind within the Center."
The Pre-Qin "Mind" (Xīn) is not merely the seat of emotion but also the seat of cognition, will, and morality. The Guanzi, Xinshu Shang states: "The Mind in the body holds the position of a ruler." The Mind is the sovereign of the body.
The "Mind" in the Neiye particularly emphasizes its "Center" (Zhōng)—the deepest core of the mind. "The mind stores the mind, and within the mind there is another mind"—the outer mind might be disturbed, but if the innermost "Center" remains tranquil, the entire mind system can remain stable.