Research on the Annotations to the Laozi in the Northern Song Dynasty -- A Series of Doctoral Dissertations on Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

Author: Yin Zhihua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: Based on a thorough examination of the literary and historical materials of the Northern Song Dynasty's commentary on the Laozi, this book conducts an in-depth study of the Northern Song Dynasty's commentary on the Laozi through several thematic sections such as "Dao Theory," "Theory of Existence and Non-existence," "Theory of Nature and Life," "Theory of Non-Action," and "Theory of the Integration of the Three Teachings." It reveals the theoretical characteristics of Northern Song Laoism, including the integration of Confucianism and Taoism, the emphasis on both existence and non-existence, the highlighting of mind and nature, and the focus on the "principle" (li). These features are identified as specific manifestations of the era's dominant in the interpretation of classical texts. The book particularly discusses the Laoist thought of figures such as Wang Anshi, Su Zhe, Chen Jingyuan, Sima Guang, and Emperor Huizong, linking their Laozi commentaries to their political stances and ideological beliefs, thereby highlighting the distinct social meanings behind different Laoist backgrounds. The author also summarizes the methods used by Northern Song scholars to interpret the Laozi and, drawing on Western hermeneutic theory, conducts a preliminary exploration of the similarities and differences between Chinese and Western hermeneutic traditions.