Laozi Bamboo Slips Commentary and Annotation

Author: Xu Zhijun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-05-01
Features: This book is a collation and annotation of the Laozi text unearthed from the Mawangdui Han Tomb, specifically the E-version. The missing texts in the E-version are primarily supplemented with those from the Jia-version. Research on the Laozi (Bamboo Slips) primarily unfolds from two perspectives: historical studies and the textual interpretation of pre-Qin literature. From a historical perspective, it includes one aspect of studying primitive society, i.e., cultural anthropology, and another aspect of studying pre-Qin historiography to elaborate on the thoughts of the Laozi, one of China's earliest private works. Because the study of humanities, such as philosophy, literature, art, and the like, cannot be separated from the assistance of historical studies. The achievements of historical research can make the interpretation of the Laozi concrete and avoid empty or speculative discussions. To ensure the correct textual understanding of the Laozi Bamboo Slips, it is also necessary to start from pre-Qin literature and interpret based on textual studies.