Li Principle All is Principle Human mind reflects

Li (Principle) All is Principle. Human mind reflects/ resonates with this Principle Zhu Xi: The Great Ultimate (taiji): Transcendent, sum of all Principles of all things, highest Principle within each

Li (Principle) Eternal, unchanging, indestructible, incorporeal Qi (material force) Transitory, changing, destructible, corporeal Interdependence of the two

Two human souls: yang soul (from Heaven), yin soul (from Earth) Human being as co-operative union of yin and yang Human being as microcosm of universe Role of jen/ren (humaneness)

Good and evil as results of human behaviour Humans are naturally good Confucius/Mencius: Evil as result of failings of society esp. rulers Xunzi (c. 300 -238 BC): Humans are naturally selfish, so need for goodness to be imposed

Spiritual transformation, to live in harmony with Heavenly scheme, through… 1. Study Learning from sage-kings of old to become chun tzu (“noble person”) Total moral and spiritual selfcultivation

Spiritual transformation, to live in harmony with Heavenly scheme, through… 2. Ritual Li (ritual and ethical behaviour) in various life activities Many of these found in Book of Rites Connection with Principles of universe

Spiritual transformation, to live in harmony with Heavenly scheme, through… 3. Propriety (li) Relationships and roles in society “Rectification of names” Fulfill assigned role, injecting jen into lives and relationships

Rituals: role in family and community life. Emphasis on hierarchy and reciprocity

Confucian life: Filial piety: reverence for one’s elders and family line Propriety: right conduct in social relations, incl. correct ritual Fufilling assigned role in life: guided by welfare of family and community