Neo-Confucian Characteristics in the Publication System of Shi Wen Lei Jü

Abstract

This paper begins by examining the backgrounds of “Xin Bian” in Xin Bian Gu Jin Shi Wen Lei Jü which appears in catalogue. By comparing Yuan, Ming, Qing dynasty edition, it was shown that a process of editing and revision resulted in more developed editions in later years. Also, by examining Yi Wen Lei Jü and Chu Xue Ji, the publication standards of Shi Wen Lei Jü by Zhu Mu, the paper addresses the motivation and objective for publication as well as a comparison of publication system in order to examine the neo-Confucian characteristics of Shi Wen Lei Jü publication system.BR Yi Wen Lei Jü and Chu Xue Ji are government-published leishu (类书) by an order of the emperor. This was to facilitate search of documents recording governmental standards and ceremonial procedures in aid of the emperor’s governance and creation of literary works. Supported by the emperor, the works are vast in scale.BR On the other hand, Shi Wen Lei Jü was put together as a boxuejiwen (博学记文) for qiongli (穷理). Thus the introduction to Shi Wen Lei Jü is given to an account of Zhulu’s Wuji-Taiji discussion around Zhu Xi, which had formed a fundamental controversy. Also, unlike previous leishu, zhiguanbu (职官部) was omitted; it was later supplemented by Fu Da-Yong. In addition, the titles of bumu (部目) and zimu (子目) are also neo-Confucian in style: the order of arrangement also follows that of ontology, discipline and learning in neo-Confucianism. Finally, Zhu Mu valued lixue, further developing the existing Libu with details and taking Sang Li (丧礼), the most highly valued part of Zhou Li, to form a section of its own as Sangshibu (丧事部).BR Thus there are clear differences from previous governmental leishu such as Yi Wen Lei Jü and Chu Xue Ji. This reflects the influence of ZhuXi, a relative of Zhu Mu who complied Shi Wen Lei Jü. This research therefore points to the academic and cultural backgrounds against which Shi Wen Lei Jü was widely utilized by the royal family and scholars in Chosun; the doctrines of Chu-tzu was more eagerly followed and lixue better developed in Chosun than in China at the time.