The Resonance of Sound and Harmony of Qì──Analyzing Zhou Dynasty Literature from a Sensory Perspective

• Main Authors: Dīng Jí-mào, 丁吉茂
• Other Authors: Huáng Zhōng-shèn
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2012
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/58655037871073193320

碩士 === 國立彰化師範大學 === 國文學系 === 100 === This research paper discusses the relationships among the individuals, environment, and the essence of life/existence (本體) by analyzing the literature of sensory experience during the Zhou Dynasty (周朝); specifically, the vowels and sounds (聲音) are used as the entry point to explore Qì (氣). The discussion first begins with the exploration of sensory function through the mass energy of Xīn (心) – heart/mind/core existence. The prototype model of the phenomenon is introduced by explaining the link between the Sphere (場域) and the Rhythmic Figures (律數). The logical order of classification are identified through tracing the Five Elements (五行), to Five Virtues (五常), to Five Energies (五氣). Furthermore, the classification points out the path toward humanity. Xīn (心) is the center of consciousness. Sphere (場域) is formed by the collective consciousness of all beings. Human beings as a whole are formed by Xīn (心) and matters (物). Therefore, human beings have the capacity to identify the laws of nature by observing sensory changes. By following the law of creation, human beings can be in harmony with the world. The sensory system, which leads Xīn (心) to reconcile the differences and to achieve the harmony, includes the following nine elements: first – Qì (氣), second – Body (體), third – Classification (類), fourth – Object (物), fifth – Vowel (聲), sixth – Rhythm (律), seventh – Sound/tone (音), eighth – Wind (風), ninth – Song (歌). The numerical order represents the logical order of Heaven’s Way (天道); the different senses correspond to the awareness of humanity; Five Vowels (五聲) match Five Elements (五行). The sensory experiences are not only for pleasure, the sensory experiences could guide us to follow the classification to achieve and realize the Xīn (心), the core essence of our being. Human beings practice self-cultivation in the phenomenal world. When we follow the virtue of ascetic, we achieve the harmony with nature. Ancient Chinese philosophy emphasizes the importance of Lǐ—manners (禮), Yi—justice (義), Lǐan—integrity, (廉), and Chǐ—honor, (恥) in order to maintain the order of Sphere (場域). The ways to achieve a clear mind is to practice Rén—kindness (仁), Lǐ—manners (禮), xìn—honesty (信), Yì—justice (義), Zhì—wisdom (智). The coherence between our thoughts and actions enable people to follow the root of consciousness by acting with our own intuition. When we follow the selflessness of nature, we cultivate the kindness of our Xīn (心). Hence, we can achieve our destiny within the limitations of current environment. In summary, the Resonance of Sound and Harmony of Qì (同聲相應，同氣相求) is about cultivating self in kindness and love. Then, we can devote our self to contribute to the sustainability of this world.