Complete Translation of the "Record of Transmission"

Author: Wang Yangming
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1998-04-01
Features: This book primarily compiles Wang Yangming's teaching dialogues and academic letters, representing the fundamental ideas of Yangming philosophy and serving as one of the important classics of traditional Chinese philosophy. The Record of Transmission and Practice (Chuanxi Lù) is a collection of dialogues and academic letters by Wang Shouren (styled Yangming), a Ming Dynasty philosopher and the central figure of the Xue school within the Neo-Confucianism of the Song and Ming dynasties. The term "transmission" originates from the phrase "transmit without practice" in the Analects of Confucius. The Record of Transmission and Practice contains Wang Yangming's main philosophical ideas and is a crucial resource for studying his thought and the development of Xinxue (the Mind School). The first volume was reviewed by Wang Yangming himself, the second volume consists of letters written in his own hand and is his late works, while the third volume, though not reviewed by him, provides a more detailed explanation of his late thoughts and records the "Four Teachings" he proposed. The Record of Transmission and Practice vividly reflects Wang Yangming's theory of mind and nature, holding a significant position in the history of ancient Chinese philosophy. Even today, Wang Yangming's thought continues to exert a profound influence on contemporary New Confucians.