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 8: Virtue (Dé)
"Virtue" (Dé) appears in "If the Form is not upright, Virtue will not arrive" and "Rectify the Form and Gather Virtue."
The character Dé in Pre-Qin literature has two fundamental meanings:
First, the meaning of "Attainment" (Dé)—the qualities possessed by one who has attained the Dao. The Guanzi, Xinshu Shang states: "Virtue is the dwelling place of the Dao." Virtue is where the Dao resides—the Dao resides within Virtue.
Second, the meaning of "Capacity" or "Nature." The Zhuangzi, Tiandi states: "That which allows things to live is called Virtue (Dé)." All things are born because they have obtained the Dao; this "attainment" is Dé.
The "Virtue" in "If the Form is not upright, Virtue will not arrive" encompasses both meanings: First, it is the dwelling place of the Dao (if the body-mind is not upright, the Dao has no place to reside); second, it is the inherent capacity (if the form is not upright, the inherent potential of Virtue cannot be exerted).