A Deep Study of Xunzi's 'Jie Pi' Chapter: On the Cognitive Foundations of the Mind—Emptiness, Unity, and Tranquility
This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the core proposition in Xunzi's 'Jie Pi' concerning the nature of cognition: 'How does man know$41 By the mind. How does the mind know$42 By being empty, unified, and tranquil.' It systematically interprets the dialectical relationship and philosophical implications of 'emptiness' (xu), 'unity' (yi), and 'tranquility' (jing) in cognition, tracing their ancient intellectual origins to reveal the systematicity and sophistication of Pre-Qin cognitive theory.
Section 1: The Ancient Imagery of the "Mind" (Xin)
In ancient culture, the "Mind" (Xin) was not merely the name of a physical organ but a cultural symbol bearing rich symbolic meaning.
The oracle bone script for Xin is a pictogram of the human heart. Ancient peoples, through the butchering and sacrifice of animals, observed the heart's shape and function—it beat incessantly, sending blood to all parts of the body. This observation led them to understand: the heart is the core organ, crucial for sustaining life.
Starting from this simple observation, the spiritual meaning of the "Mind" gradually emerged—the Mind is not only the core of the body but also the core of the spirit. Human thought, emotion, and will were all believed to originate from the "Mind."
This concept of the "Mind" is ubiquitous in pre-Qin texts:
"When two men have one mind, their sharpness cuts through metal. The words of men with one mind are as fragrant as orchids." (Zhou Yi, Appendix A)
Here, "Mind" signifies will and direction.
"The sorrow of my heart is like unwashed garments. I speak quietly and ponder, yet I cannot rise and fly." (Shi Jing, Bei Feng, Bai Zhou)
Here, the "Mind" is the seat of emotion.
"Others have intentions, which I can fathom." (Shi Jing, Xiao Ya, Qiao Yan)
Here, "Mind" means thought and intention.
In the worldview of ancient peoples, the "Mind" was the pivot connecting humanity with Heaven and Earth. The qi (vital energy) of Heaven and Earth entered the body through the "Mind," granting life and wisdom. If the Mind was clear, it could smoothly receive the qi of Heaven and Earth; if the Mind was murky, it obstructed the flow of qi.
This ancient concept deeply resonates with Master Xunzi’s "Emptiness, Singularity, and Stillness"—this triad is precisely what keeps the Mind clear and unimpeded, allowing it to fully exert its cognitive and spiritual functions.