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 1: Explication of the Original Text
"正形摄德，天仁地义，则淫然而自至" (Rectify the Form and Gather Virtue (Dé); Heaven is benevolent, Earth is righteous; then it overflows and arrives on its own.)
This line, following the negative statement "If the Form is not upright, Virtue will not arrive," shifts to a positive assertion, specifically detailing how to rectify the form and gather virtue.
"Zhèng xíng" (Rectify the Form)—Verbally use "rectify" on the physical form. "Shè dé" (Gather Virtue)—To gather or collect Virtue. "Shè" means to draw in or consolidate. "Tiān rén dì yì" (Heaven is benevolent, Earth is righteous)—There are differing interpretations of these four characters. One understanding is: Heaven's virtue is Benevolence (Rén), Earth's virtue is Righteousness (Yì). Another understanding is: like Heaven's benevolence, like Earth's righteousness. "Zé yín rán ér zì zhì" (Then it overflows and arrives on its own)—"Yín rán" describes a state of abundant overflow. "Zì zhì" means it arrives naturally. The whole line means: If this is done, Virtue arrives naturally and abundantly, like flowing water.