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 7: The Warning of Master Zeng
At the very end of the passage, Master Xunzi quotes Master Zeng:
"Master Zeng said: 'If his courtyard is only suitable for catching mice, how can he sing with me!'"
This means that a person whose scope is small engages in small matters; a person whose scope is large pursues high-level activities. The two cannot be compared.
"Catching mice" (bo shu 搏鼠)—trivial, low-level affairs. "Singing" (ge 歌)—lofty, high-level activities.
Master Zeng uses this analogy to warn people: do not be submerged by trivial matters, but aspire to a higher goal, pursuing the state of "Great Clarity and Brightness."
This aligns perfectly with Master Xunzi’s overall thesis—do not be led astray by "small things" or obscured by a "single corner," but rather "Concentrate on the Dao" and strive toward the state of "Great Clarity and Brightness."