Siku Quanshu Shusu (Complete 4 Volumes)

Author: Xie Lujun / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-06-01
Features: The General Preface to the Siku Quanshu states: "The rise of divination and numerology often occurred after the Qin and Han dynasties. Its essence lies in the theory of Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, generation and control, and it is merely a branch of the I Ching. It is adorned with various superstitions. Things are born with forms, and forms are born with numbers. Through multiplication and division, they strive to explore the origins of creation, which is called mathematics. Stars, earth, clouds, and phenomena are mentioned in classics, but they are often passed down as superstitions, gradually losing their truth. However, it is not to say that ancient times had no such theories, which is called divination. Beyond this, the later schools are chaotic and cannot be enumerated, and the Shiji and Zhi generally describe them as 'Five Elements.' Among them, only mathematics is a separate tradition outside the I Ching, somewhat detached from practical matters but still close to reason. The rest are mostly false with a trace of truth, spreading and influencing each other. To claim that such theories and principles did not exist in ancient times is the naive talk of Confucian scholars; to claim that modern diviners can inherit this tradition is the delusion of the common people. Simply because people hope for blessings and fear misfortune, this sentiment has been the same throughout history. As soon as the desire to avoid danger arises, practitioners of various arts exploit the opportunity to deceive, so absurd talk only grows more widespread. Yet, as long as the masses pursue it, even sages cannot prevent it. What can be understood should be preserved in its principles, and what cannot be understood should be retained as a theory."
This is because the Dao of alchemy and divination resonate with humanity's desire for immortality and the avoidance of misfortune, making them widely accepted among the populace. They are easily exploited by wandering sorcerers who deceive and swindle. Since it is impossible to completely suppress them, it is better to elevate them to the realm of academia for study. Readers must understand that mastering divination and mathematics is relatively easy, but what diviners truly need is a "spiritual thinking" that transcends the ordinary "rational thinking" of the masses. Wandering sorcerers are mostly false with a hint of truth, and few can truly inspire spiritual insight. Those who seek to profit are even lower, and should not be trusted. However, since divination and mathematics are part of traditional Chinese culture, they must be cherished. Protecting ancient Chinese traditional culture is also protecting the future of the Chinese nation. Therefore, after careful consideration, I have reluctantly written this preface.