Zhang Juzheng comments on the Imperial Edition of the Great Learning and the Doctrine of the Mean

Author: Chen Shengxi et al.
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not available
Features: "The Famous Prime Minister Explains National Classics," The Zhang Juzheng Commentary on the Imperial Reading Materials is a lecture series by the Ming Dynasty's Chief Minister (Prime Minister) Zhang Juzheng, in collaboration with the Hanlin Academy's scholars, for Emperor Wanli's explanation of the "Four Books" (The Analects of Confucius, The Great Learning, The Doctrine of the Mean, and Mencius, as well as The Book of Documents). The original text was written in colloquial Ming Dynasty vernacular, and the compilers and annotators have added modern punctuation, annotations, and translations, making it even more accessible and easy to understand. Additionally, the series incorporates the political thinkers' reflections on historical rise and fall and reform ideas, offering unique insights into many significant historical issues. It helps readers understand the imperial education system of the time and provides valuable references for improving leadership in national administration.
The Great Learning is a Confucian political essay that outlines the principles of governing a state and bringing peace to the world. Its core idea is "self-cultivation to bring peace to the people." The entire text integrates moral cultivation with political discourse, merging philosophical thought with political philosophy, fully embodying the Confucian "worldly engagement" philosophy.
The theme of The Doctrine of the Mean lies in explaining the perfection and highest moral standard of the "Doctrine of the Mean." Methodologically, it advocates choosing a correct perspective when understanding and addressing issues, opposing both "excess" and "insufficiency." From a cosmic perspective, The Doctrine of the Mean proposes the unity of all under heaven. From a political perspective, it advocates for rule by virtue (de) and human governance. It also promotes a scholarly approach based on sincerity (cheng), emphasizing "extensive learning, earnest inquiry, careful deliberation, clear discrimination, and steadfast practice."