The Nature-Being-Principle: A Consideration from Chu Hsü

Abstract

What is the nature of mind? Mind is conceived to perform the function of perception and knowing (chih-chiieh^a) and understanding (li-hui ^b), among other things. Chu Hsi^b says the following: “The knowing and perception of mind is such that it [mind] has this li ^band performs this action”¹ “Investigation of things (ko-wu)^b” is to understand li (li-hui) in things. To reach knowledge is to clarify the mind² (tźu-hsin-tóu- cfté^c).”³ One shuld note that for Chu Hsi understanding as a function of mind is to have li as its object, and understanding in the sense of the Chinese term li-hui would simply mean “meeting the li.” Li is also held to be the object of knowing and perception by Chu Hsi. He says: “What mind knows and perceives is li. Li is not separate from knowing and perceiving; and knowing and perceiving is not separate from li.”