From Mandate of Heaven to Mission: Semantic Rupture and Subject Reconstruction in Pre-Qin Theories of "Ming"
This article deeply analyzes the semantic fission of the character "ming" (命) in pre-Qin thought, tracing its evolution from divine mandate and innate nature to an active mission, demonstrating that it was not passive fatalism but rather proactive assumption of responsibility beyond cognitive horizons. By re-examining core propositions like Confucius's "knowing the mandate of Heaven," the study reveals the dynamic relationship of Heaven-human interaction in pre-Qin philosophy, showcasing the robust subjectivity and sense of mission within traditional Chinese culture.
Section 4: Deep Resonance Between Daoist and Confucian Views of "Ming"
On the surface, the Confucian and Daoist attitudes towards "ming" appear completely different: the Confucians actively undertake missions, while the Daoists transcend and accept fate. However, at a deep structural level, they have striking similarities:
First, both schools premise their views on "knowing." Confucius "knew Heaven's mandate" (知天命, zhi tian ming), and Zhuangzi "knew what was unavoidable" (知其不可奈何, zhi qi bu ke nai he). Neither is blind obedience; both are clear recognition with open eyes.
Second, both schools distinguish between what is controllable and what is uncontrollable. Mencius distinguished between "things sought within" and "things sought without," while Zhuangzi distinguished between "things humans cannot participate in" and things humans can do. Neither school accepts fate wholesale, but after distinguishing, they fully commit to the parts they can control.
Third, both schools respond to fate with an active attitude. The Confucian response is "establishing fate" (立命) and "controlling Heaven's mandate" (制天命). The Daoist response is "returning to fate" (复命) and "being at peace with it as if it were fate" (安之若命—note the character "ruo" (as if)—not truly accepting fate, but achieving a state of freedom like accepting fate). The common point between the two is: fate is not something to be passively endured, but something that requires a certain active response.