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 3: The Interrelationship Among Emptiness, Singularity, and Stillness
Although "Emptiness," "Singularity," and "Stillness" can be discussed separately, they possess a close internal relationship:
Emptiness is the prerequisite for Singularity. Only when the Mind remains open and clear (Empty) can it focus its attention on a single object (Singular). If the Mind is filled with existing knowledge and prejudice, it cannot truly concentrate on the present object of cognition.
Singularity is the condition for Stillness. Only when the Mind is focused in one direction (Singular) will distracting thoughts recede (Still). If the Mind is directed toward multiple directions simultaneously, distracting thoughts will inevitably arise, preventing tranquility.
Stillness is the guarantee of Emptiness. Only when the Mind is quiet (Still) can it maintain a state of clarity and openness (Empty). If the Mind is agitated by distractions, existing knowledge and biases will surge forth, filling the Mind’s space and causing it to lose its clarity.
Thus, Emptiness, Singularity, and Stillness are mutually causal and mutually supportive, forming a virtuous cycle. In this cycle, the Mind continuously deepens its state of clarity, focus, and tranquility, eventually reaching the state of "Great Clarity and Brightness."
Conversely, if this cycle is broken—if the Mind is filled by "already stored knowledge" (loss of Emptiness) → attention disperses (loss of Singularity) → distracting thoughts arise (loss of Stillness) → the Mind becomes even more congested (further loss of Emptiness)—a vicious cycle forms. In this cycle, the Mind becomes increasingly obscured and chaotic, ultimately falling into the dilemma of "resolving doubt with doubt."