Huainan Honglie Jiejie (Volume 1 and 2)

Author: Liu Wendi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: According to the Taoist doctrine of "non-action and naturalness," Huainanzi provides a brief explanation of natural phenomena such as astronomy and geography, as well as worldly matters like politics and military affairs. However, it also mixes in many ideas from Confucianism, Legalism, and the Yin-Yang school, offering little originality in thought. Nevertheless, the book cites numerous legends, myths, and fables, making the text rich in variety and highly engaging. It also preserves many fragments of lost myths and witty, humorous folk sayings.
Liu An (d. 122 BCE), the Prince of Huainan, was the grandson of Emperor Gaozu of Han (Liu Bang). His father, Liu Chang, was exiled to Sichuan after being accused of rebellion against Emperor Wen (Liu Chang's Rebellion) and died of starvation during his journey. Liu An harbored resentment and attempted to plot rebellion, but his scheme was exposed during the reign of Emperor Wu. Before being captured, Liu An took his own life.
Liu An was an outstanding scholar, surrounded by talented advisors. At the time, the imperial court was gradually leaning toward unifying thought under Confucianism, while Liu An's entourage was dominated by Taoist scholars. With their help, Liu An sought to synthesize the doctrines of various schools, aiming to grasp the underlying principles of natural order and human affairs. Huainanzi was compiled with this motivation in mind.
The book reflects the political tensions between the central and regional authorities during the Han Dynasty, as well as the ideological conflict between Confucianism and Taoism. Its value is yet to be fully assessed. Currently, its philosophical significance is not highly regarded. However, because its content revolves around myths and legends, the folkloric materials within have been highly valued by later scholars.
The book is also known as Huainanzi Honglie (Great Brilliance). "Honglie" means "great and bright," which is akin to our common expression "to fully manifest the Dao."