EALC001

Avalokitesvara = Guanyin = Guanshiyin

"One who observes the cries of the world." Bodhisattva associated with compassion.

Baopuzi

"The Master Embracing Simplicity" 'Inner Chapters' about esoteric studies and social philosophy arguing for the reality and attainability of divine transcendence. 'Outer Chapters' blend Confucian and Legalist rhetoric to solve socio-political problems. Written by Ge Hon aka Baopuzi.

Lotus Sutra

First translation into Chinese was during the third century AD. Bodhisattva who can take on any male form in order to teach Dharma to sentient beings. Dharma is cosmic law and order. First translated during the Warring States period, during third century AD.

Northern Wei

Tuoba clan of the Xianbei nomadic tribal group. Established the more enduring state of Northern Wei, ruling areas of northern China from 386 to 534. 493 Ad relocated capital south to Luoyang.

Oracle Bones

Turtle shells with oracles on them. Appeared in the antiquities market _____ years ago. Wang Yirong (1845-1900) attempted to collect them. Liu E (1857-1909) succeeded him. Liu E published Iron Cloud's collected Tortoises - first publication of oracle-bone inscriptions. Used by Shang kings to communicate with ancestors. Form of divination, oracle bones at Anyang stand out because of the increased intensification of them being done (compared to previously) and the fact that they have inscriptions on them (which weren't present previously). They would crack and chip parts of the inside of the shell then apply heat and read the way it cracked. Important to note that the concept of using the cracks to communicate with ancestors is false. NOT a Shang innovation. name of the kings appear on them, indicating the sequence chronology, which is how they were able to decipher them.

The Odes

305 poems, anywhere from folk songs to temple hymns. One of the Five Classics, so forms part of the traditional Confucian canon, which means they were the core of the educational curriculum. Poems ranging from 11th to 7th century B.C., Zhou dynasty. Traditionally held to have been made by Confucius. Cited by officials to show their education and make their points more effectively. This is rather surprising because they are citing poetry in official speeches.

Guo Qin lun

"Transgressions of Qin" Document discussing failings of the Legalist rule under the Qin and the fall of the Qin dynasty, written in the Han period by Jia Yi (a Han statesman and poet). Describes the fatality of rulers who lack pure humanity and righteousness, emphasizes that the Qin emperors lost the support of the people through their cruelty and ignorance. "He thought there was no difference between conquest and consolidation" -> thoughts on a foolish ruler who "deserved" to lose power according to the author. "Be warned, in any opposition to the people, the people will win." Written after establishment of Han rule by a Han official (Jia Yi) who sought to lend legitimacy to the rulers of the Han by comparing their benevolent and kind rule with the cruelties of the preceding Qin rulers. Furthered the idea that a regime can only survive if it cares for the people -> very important to later generations, even today this idea exists in Chinese political culture. Highly significant influence on later generations. Written during the second century BC. Take away point: rulers who do not care for the people will eventually lose power. Highly influential and significant concept that has persisted through many generations, up to today.

Ren

"humaness", "kindness", "compassion", "humanity" Entails deep concern for the well-being of others, which makes right action almost effortless. Confucius considered it the highest virtue of Confucianism. Concept defined by Confucius, so likely created during Zhou dynasty. Confucius believed that people should follow ren instead of succumbing to vice.

Junzi

"superior man", "noble man", "gentleman" (lit. "son of a lord") Word used mostly by Confucius, in order to describe the ideal man. Junzi can live with poverty. Junzi does more and speaks less. Junzi is loyal, obedient, and knowledgable. Junzi disciplines himself. Among these, Ren is the core of becoming junzi. Word used mostly by Confucius, in order to describe the ideal man. It's a concept defined by Confucius, so most likely created during Zhou dynasty. While the ideal personality is Sage, it is very hard to attain, and thus one should aim to become junzi. Rulers in particular should have superior ethics and morals, since those allow for good governance, and so rulers in particular should be junzi.

Mahayana

'Great Vehicle': path and teachings of bodhisattvas. Geographic split between South and SE Asia vs Central and East Asia. Different collection of canonical texts. Includes Bodhisattva ideal, 'expedient means', elaborate cosmology, salvation to nirvana. Origins are obscure.

Expedient Means

'Upaya' Buddhist truths are difficult to teach so lower level teachings are used to convey a basic knowledge. These teachings are not necessarily completely accurate. The ability to adapt one's message to their audience.

Records of the Historian

(Shiji) Received text Written during 109-91 BC, during the Han dynasty. Shang and Han dynasty written by Sima Tan and Sima Qian ambitious survey of the history of the known worlds, largest of its day. From Yellow Emperor until the Han dynasty. Organized into 'Fundamental Records' - 130 chapters from the perspectives of chronological narratives of political events with charts, topical accounts and treaties of key events, individual biographies, and even made up conversations. It includes detail on important events in rulers' lives, biographies of non-rulers, economic trends and scarcity of resources over time. Sima Tan was also largely responsible for the maintenance of the imperial library and the compilation of this historical work. Chronologically arranged material covering the span of time from evidently mythical prehistory through to Sima Qian's time. An encyclopeida account of the known world, past and present. The richest textual source for early Han and pre-Han history. The 130 volumes (i.e. scrolls, now usually called "chapters") of the text classify information into several categories: (1) 12 volumes of Benji, "Basic Annals" or "Imperial Biographies", to contain the biographies of all prominent rulers. (2) 10 volumes of Biao or "Tables", are timelines of events. (3) 8 volumes of Shu or "Treatises", of economics and other topics of the time. (4) 30 volumes of Shijia or "Biographies of the Feudal Houses and Eminent Persons", contain biographies of notable rulers, nobility and bureaucrats mostly from the Springs and Autumn and Warring States periods. Confucius is also included in this class/section. (5) 70 volumes of Liezhuan or "Biographies and Collective Biographies", contain biographies of important individual figures including Laozi, Mozi, Sun Tzu, and Jing Ke. Provides historians with detailed information of the Han Dynasty. Many later philosophers and writers copy the writing style and use this text as a basis.

Ge Hong

283 - 343 AD Interested in Daoism, alchemy, dietary regimes, and longevity. Advocated retreat from public life into seclusion. Wrote the "Baopuzi" ("The Master Who Embraces Simplicity"). Baopuzi is also his pen name. Lived during Jin Dynasty, during third and fourth century AD.

Yellow Turbans

184 - 205 AD Yellow Turban Rebellion An agrarian uprising against the state, beginning in 184 AD. A major cause of the rebellion was an agrarian crisis, in which famine forced many farmers and former military settler in the north to seek employment in the south, where large landowners exploited the labor surplus to amass large fortunes. Led by Zhang Jiao and his brothers, leaders of Way to Supreme Peace. The rebellion its name from the color of the scarves that the rebels wore on their heads. This event marked an important point in the history of Taoism.

Western Han or Former Han

206 B.C. - A.D. 9 Period of the Han Dynasty before Wang Mang (a relative of the royal family) set up his own dynasty (AD 9-23) and usurped the throne. Han Dynasty established by Liu Bang in 209 BC in the Chen She Rebellion. Capital at Chang'an (different than Eastern Han). Han considered to be period of growth, peace, and prosperity, repudiated harsh Qin rule but kept unified control of China, continued laws and administration of Qin style. State sponsored revival of Confucianism. Period known for the territorial expansion into SE Asia, Korean Peninsula and Central Asia paid for by government monopolies on minting coins, iron, salt, and liquor. Government also bought and sold grain to keep prices stable (first time in a state economic policy). Collapse of harsh and unpopular Qin regime in 209 BC(?). Famous ancient dynasty known for revival of Confucianism and massive growth/expansion. Similar administration to Qin but difference was in men in positions of power; as scholars trained in the Confucian classics, they were dually expected to be agents of the Emperor whilst also being men of integrity and proper behavior-> led to prestige associated with government positions. Han rule extremely stable, led to massive population growth (over 50 million), growth of trade and industry, communication and transportation, cities of wealth and culture. Migration of population to the South (fertile farmland), through regional expansion persisted. Continuation of Qin labor and tax service obligations. Complex system of obligation and Confucian values where each individual had variety of relationships and social contracts, strong influence on the generations of Chinese following it, but distinctly different obligations than Legalism during Qin before it (which were very cruel).

"Burning of the Books"

213 B.C. Massive burning of all books conflicting with First Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Legalist/non-traditional Confucian ruling style, values, etc., encouraged by his prime minister Li Si (alleged). All books not dealing with agriculture, medicine, or prognostication were burned, except historical records of Qin and books in the imperial library. Also included burying of over 400 scholars who disagreed with the Emperor on specific policies and behavior, e.g. the Emperor's search for an elixir of immortality, traditional Confucian feudal policies, etc. The First Emperor wanted an elixir of immortality, searched for masters of science, magic, alchemy, etc. who could make it for him. After extensive travels, invitations of people to his court, etc. he had no success. The Confucian scholars in court strongly disapproved of his behavior, exacerbated controversy between them and the Emperor, who already used Legalist measures, etc. (seen as non-traditional, not consistent with Confucianism). The continuous controversy between the Emperor and Confucian scholars who advocated a return to the old feudal order culminated in the famous "Burning of the Books" of 213 B.C. According to later Han descriptions of the event, the burning was done at Li Si's (a student of Xunzi) suggestion, which the Han writers used to further disparage the Qin dynasty for their separation from traditional Confucianism.

Spring and Autumn period (Chunqiu)

722 - 453 BC Had nominal Zhou Kingship but had little power. Power in Hegemon lords of individual feifdoms or states. Year by year chronology account by text. Covenants and convocations: had to swear to one another and carve up power among one another. Continued used to Zhou style ritual equipment.

Eastern Zhou

722-256 BC Qin becomes increasingly dominant and wipes out the previous Zhou dynasty. Known for the "one hundred schools of thought"

The Laozi = the Daode Jing

= Tao Te Ching = "The Classic of the Way and Virtue" The canon of Daoism. Recurrent theme is the preference for the yielding and the silence over words and actions, i.e. the benefits of wuwei (inaction). Emphasizes the use of paradoxes in order to challenge the reader to find his own interpretation of the Way (Dao), which makes it a text open to interpretation. Different from the Analects and the Mencius in every possible respect: no dialogue forms; no identifiable named individuals; no historical scenarios; obscure but arresting metaphors and fixation on paradoxes; and cosmological preoccupations focusing on the "Way" (dao). Traditionally considered to have been written in the sixth century B.C. The Laozi was the first text of Daoism. Strong influence even on other schools of though, such as Legalism and Buddhism (which was introduced to China by using Daoist words and concepts).

The Mencius (a book)

A collection of anecdotes and dialogues involving Mengzi, including many debates between Mengzi and various rulers about how best to run a state. Distinctive themes elaborated in The Mencius: (1) Explicit theorizing about human psychology (xing) and the source of morality. (2) The doctrine of the essential goodness of human nature (xing) Uses the "child who falls in a well" anecdote. The Mencius and the Analects share many characteristics, but it is mostly what Mencius added that matters. (Themes it shared with the Analects are: (1) vocal, direct critique of incompetent rule; (2) criticism of violent, coercive, or punitive measures in government; (3) the well-being of the people is the primary task of government; (4) satisfactory kin relations are the foundation of ethics; (5) antiquity provides models of sagely rule that contemporary monarchs fail to live up to). Written during the third century B.C., Warring States period. The Mencius is made into one of the Four Books at the core of the Neo-Confucian thought. This book became hugely influential, and was also part of the orthodox school of Confucianism, since it shared so much with the Analects.

The Spring and Autumn Annals

A historical record of the State of Lu, the native state of Confucius. Traditionally though to include subtly-expressed but profound judgements on the events recorded. One of the Five Classics, so forms part of the traditional Confucian canon, which means they were the core of the education curriculum. 722-481 B.C., Zhou dynasty. Traditionally held to have been edited by Confucius (though this is probably no accurate...still one of the Five Classics). Gave its name to the Spring and Autumn period, which this book describes.

Zuo Zhuan

A literary elaboration/commentary of some of the events recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals, containing many extended narratives, battles, plots and betrayals, prophecies, minister-monarch dialogues, and ethical pronouncements. Date of composition, authorship, precise relationship with Spring and Autumn Annals, and sources not clear. Contains dramatic story of Duke Xi of Lu (10th year, 650 B.C.). Unlike the Spring and Autumn Annals, which is centered on the state of Lu, the state of Jin is the primary focus of the Zuo Zhuan. Written during the Warring States period, around fourth century B.C. With its vivid and concise language, Zuo Zhuan is also a gem of classical Chinese prose.

Qi

A technical term in early Chinese science. Performs some of the explanatory roles that we would assign to matter, energy, and metabolism. Like all scientific terms it originates as a metaphor ("Breath", "vapor", "air", "vital energy", "life force"). Term was coined during Han dynasty(?)

The Four Sprouts of Virtue

All humans have the sprouts of four concepts in them that, if allowed to grow, bring about completely ethical behavior. Those Four Sprouts are: (1) compassion, which leads to benevolence; (2) shamem which leads to righteousness; (3) deference, which leads to ritual; (4) the feeling of right and wrong, which leads to knowledge. Theorized by Mencius. For Mencius, those are closely linked to xing, since those Four Sprouts are experienced because humans are inherently good. Term first appeared in the Mencius, so defined during the Warring States period. One of the leading concepts justifying the inherent goodness of humans. Gives a base for righteous behavior according to Mencius, since one would need to cultivate these sprouts.

Daoist Canon Dao Zang

Assembly of texts underway by fifth century (Northern and Southern Dynasties Period). 'Three Grottoes': phases of initiation for a Daoist master. Consists of 'Four Supplements' based on old texts such as Daodejing and Taiping Jing. Collection of texts that served as a basis for Daoist religion.

budhisattva

Bodhisattva ideal: commitment to the liberation of all sentient beings from samsara (cycle of existence). Can be anyone who commits to this ideal. Life is compared with people living in a house that is on fire. People pursue worldly projects and pleasures without realizing that the house will soon burn down with the inevitability of death.

Wang Chong

Born A.D. 27 Chinese philosopher. Wrote the Lunheng (The Scale of Discourses) Collection of Skeptical Essays: Attacks on the notion of Heaven as having conscious will. Ridicule of popular religion. HR30- rejection of the Five Phases correlations, and the supposed Heavenly deliberation behind it. Was against Divination: Heaven and Earth have no ears or other organs for communicating. Omens are simply natural reflections of what is already in your head. Heaven's nature is one of "spontaneity" (ziran). Good or bad outcomes are the result of good or bad human actions. Thoughts were very similar to Xunzi.

chariot and domesticated horse

East Asia's earliest wheeled vehicles. 2 horses, one human found buried in Anyang; horse pit at Anyang. While there were various other animals present prior to this period horses suddenly appeared. innovation of Anyang due to foreign influence. Part of funeral arrangements (horses and chariots were buried with people). Technologies imported from outside, imported through trade (not used in war in Shang society, was used for pulling chariots, then used for the first time as war horses during the Shang wars).

Four Noble Truths

Central doctrine of Buddhist tradition: (1) Experience of life is suffering ('Dukkha'). (2) Origin of suffering is craving. (3) Cessation of craving leads to cessation of suffering. (4) 'Noble Eight-fold Path' to cessation of suffering. Not pessimistic, intended to present realistic assessment of human condition.

Period of Disunity / Northern and Southern Dynasties

China was ruled by three families - Wei (Northeast), Shu (Central), and Wu (Southeast). This era immediately followed the fall of the Han Dynasty in 220 AD and was an era of disunity, instability, and warfare. The era ended when Emperor Wen of Sui reunified Southern and Northern China and the Sui Dynasty began. As the first time in history that major political center of China is being located to the south. Surge in population and continual development of economy and culture. This transformed southern China from being remote territories to the economic center that can rival the north from Tang Dynasty onward.

Xiongnu

Chinese sources from the third century BC report them as having created an empire under Modu Chanyu, the supreme leader after 209 BC. This empire stretched beyond the borders of modern-day Mongolia, Gansu, and Xinjiang. Relations with early Chinese dynasties were complicated. Had many wars but also had times of good trade and treaties. 209 BC - 155 BC(?) Intermarried within Chinese Imperial families but also caused a lot of issues and wars.

Pali Canon

Collection of scriptures in the Theravada Buddhist tradition preserved in the Pali language. Composed in North India and preserved orally until committed to writing in 29 BC in Sri Lanka. Most complete extant early Buddhist canon. Shows the path to nirvana. 'Three Baskets' Tripitaka: 'Discipline Basket', 'Sutra Basket', 'Basket Concerning the Teachings'.

The Documents - "The Metal-bound Box" (CC3), "The Many Officers" (HR5)

Collection of speeches and other texts concerning early (Zhou and prior) kings and their advisers. One of the Five Classics, so forms part of the traditional Confucian canon, which means they were the core of the education curriculum. Probably written during the Zhou dynasty. Traditionally held to have been edited by Confucius, as such was held of basis for political philosophy for Confucianism. Record of government affairs for historians.

The Rites

Composed of three books, which together form the rites section of the Five Classics. Describes ancient rites, social forms, and court ceremonies of Zhou dynasty. One of the Five Classics, so forms part of the traditional Confucian canon, which means they were the core of the education curriculum. Probably written during the Zhou dynasty. Traditionally held to have been edited by Confucius. Dictates the rules of conduct in society. Like the other Five Classics, made the standard for the civil service examination from Yuan dynasty until its abolition in 1905.

Transmission of Buddhism to China

Contact with Buddhist states of Central Asia established during the Han dynasty. China's first encounter with developed, literate tradition. Linguistic and cultural challenges. Overcome through accurate translations and universality of Buddhism (gender, class, ethnicity). First contact was during the Han and Warring States period, second century. Buddhism truly transmits to China during the fourth century AD.

Continuity and change from Shang to Zhou

Continuity: Same writing system and language. Continuity in social structure, and emphasis on kin relations (lineage emblems). Inherited technologies and art styles (chariot pit). Persisting religious focus on dead ancestors and rituals directed towards them. Day names for kings. Change: system of enfeoffments. ideology of the "Mandate of Heaven"; reinforcement of loyalty. Envisioning of politics in ethical terms; ethical terms, ethical achievements, not only military and economic.

The fall of the Western Zhou

Due to growing independence of original enfeoffments. Predated by non-Zhou families in the North (pressing upon Zhou homeland). Zhou had to flee because of this people moved to Luoyang

Uprisings of the Five Hu

Early fourth century. Involved: Qiang, Di, Xiongnu, Xianbei, Jie (these are empires). Established short-term Chinese states in Northern China. Massive north-to-south migration. Successfully captured the Western Jin capital of Luoyang as well as Emperor Huai of Jin, destroying the Western Jin regime, after which a large series of regional states and regimes were set up. The most prominent of which are known as the Sixteen Kingdoms (Sixteen Kingdoms of the Five Barbarians). Name literally translates to "the throwing of China into disorder by the five barbarian tribes." Military and diplomatic successes provided an incentive for nomads to move into closer contact with China.

The Zhuang-Bai hoard

Excavated in Shaanxi. Later generations are less extravagant objects. Bells incorporated, large alcohol jugs. During Zhou dynasty.

Bronze inscriptions

Found at Anyang Meant to document which king gave what present in what honor (not meant for receiver to boast about any accomplishment)

"Lady Hao"

Fu Hao Wu Ding's most famous wife, so she is at the very beginning of the period in which the oracle burnings appear. Her tomb was found completely intact, unlike most tombs. They identified it was her because they found her axe in the tomb.

Celestial Masters

Han Dynasty and Period of Disunity, Daoism, Buddhism Movement ('Way of the Five Pecks of Rice' later "Tianshi Dao') founded by Zhang Daoling. Controlled a theocratic state (Sichuan). Successfully rebelled against the Han Dynasty. Submitted later to Cao Cao, Ruler of Wei, in exchange for state religion status of Tianshi Daoism. Created during second century AD.

Kongzi = Kong Qiu = Zhong Ni = Confucius

He is known mostly through the Analects and the Records of the Historian, his biography(??) Credited with editing the Five Classics. Wanted to play a greater role in government, but continually quit his jobs as official because he was not satisfied with the virtue of his employers. He championed strong family loyalty, ancestor worship, respect for elders by their children and (in traditional interpretations) for husbands by their wives. He also recommended family as a basis for ideal government. He espoused the well-known principle "Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself", an early version of the Golden Rule. Was born during the fall of the state of Zhou. 551-479 B.C. Great defender of the Zhou order, by then already in decay. Born in the state of Lu, his birth is announced by a Qilin. Traditionally, lived 551-479 B.C., Eastern Zhou period. His death is announced by the discovery of a dead Qilin. Father of Confucianism. In Confucius ideal world, all men accepted parts devoted to them and worked hard to fulfill their responsibilities to each other. Hierarchical differentiation resulted in harmonious coordination. But the highest virtue, ren, did not have a hierarchical dimension: applied to everyone. Confucius held as one of the most important scholars in Chinese history until Communist regime.

Wuwei

Inaction or non-action Important principle in Daoism. Appears in Laozi/Daodejing. Essentially means that beings (or phenomena) that are wholly in harmony with the Dao behave in a completely natural, uncontrived way: they do not have to "try" to do anything. Something like "going with the flow", where Dao is the flow. The goal of spiritual practice is to attain this "natural" way of behaving. Background is from the Daodejing and other principles of Daoism. From the Daodejing- "The Sage is occupied with the unspoken and acts without effort. Teaching without verbosity, producing without possessing, creating without regard to result, claiming nothing, the Sage has nothing to lose." Comes from Laozi, so during the Warring States period. Significance of the term is tied to the historical significance of the Daodejing and Daoist principles in general, as wuwei is one of the major tenets of Daoist teachings.

Kings Wen and Wu

King Wen: Planned to overthrow Shang dynasty but died before he could. 1099-1050 BC was imprisoned by King Zhou of Shang in Youli. Capital at Zhouyuan in Shaanxi Province and relocated to Haojing. Contributed to Yi Jing, divinations (hexagrams, 8 lines). Was said to have received the Mandate of Heaven through a rare spectacle in the sky. King Wu: Second son of King Wen. 1046-1043 BC Tried to defeat Shang dynasty. King We launched an attack along with many neighboring dukes. In the Battle of Muye 1046 BC, Shang forces were destroyed and King Zhou of Shang set his palace on fire and burned himself to death. The corrupt Shang is defeated because the Zhou have the "Mandate of Heaven on their side." Following the victory, King Wu established the smaller feudal states under the rule of his brothers and generals.

Xianbei

Like the Xiongnu, nomadic pastoralists of the Mongolian grasslands. Speakers of Mongolic language. Already maintained political power from Kazakhstan through eastern Mongolia during the Latter Han Dynasty. Established several ephemeral states in North China in the early fourth century.

The Analects

Literally "Selected Sayings" Collection of the main aphorisms and dialogues of Confucius with his disciples. Traditionally believed to have been written by the disciples of Confucius. Believed to have been written during the Warring States period. Main source from which we get direct ideas of Confucius. As such, the foundation for much of Chinese social, political, and ethical thought. So central that eventually became a sacred book memorized by students, and many of its passages became proverbial sayings known by all.

Sima Qian

Lived 145-85 BC, during Han dynasty. Wrote Records of the Historian. Son of Sima Tan Made into a eunuch by the emperor prior to finishing Records of the Historian for defending a general who had surrendered to the Xiongnu (as well as his writings(?)). But continued to live on and not kill himself as might be expected(?). He is considered the father of Chinese historiography for his work, the Records of the Historian. Was a Han Court Astrologer like his father Sima Tan (this was a very important role during that time). In one of Sima Tan's essays that survived with the Records of the Historian, he speaks of six philosophical lineages or "schools": (1) Confucianism (2) Daoism (3) Legalism (4) Mohism (5) School of Names (6) School of Naturalists Zou Yan Sima's Shiji is respected as a model of biographical literature with high literary value and still stands as a textbook for the study of classical Chinese. Sima's works were influential to Chinese writing, serving as ideal models for various types of prose within the neo-classical ("renaissance") movement of the Tang-Song period.

Jia Yi

Lived 201 - 169 B.C. Author of the Guo Qin Lun ("Transgressions of Qin"), wrote about the importance of benevolent rule as key to maintaining power (as a dynasty/emperor). Han statesman and poet, especially known for his contributions to "fu" poetry and as author of the "Transgressions of Qin." Author of hugely historically important idea of the "mandate of the people", without taking care of the population, power cannot be sustained.

Liu Bang

Lived 247-195 B.C. First and founding emperor of the Han Dynasty, originally named Liu Bang, took name Gaozu when he declared himself emperor. Led rebellion beginning in 209 BC, last Qin emperor surrendered in 207 BC and declared himself Emperor Gaozu of the new Han Dynasty in 206 BC, would rule until his death in 195 BC. Established new capital at Chang'an (near old Qin capital in ruins) which would grow into a metropolis of culture during the reign of his descendants (Han Dynasty). Known for giving large gifts of land, as feudal states, to allies and members of the Liu family. Originally a mailman from Chu, served as a minor official under the Qin dynasty before leading an army against them and seizing power. Established the Han Dynasty after winning a rebellion against the cruel and short-lived Qin dynasty. Ruled Han Dynasty 202 - 195 BC. Founder and first emperor of Han Dynasty, very culturally and historically significant period.

Li Si

Lived during Qin Dynasty, died 208 B.C. Lived 280-208 B.C. Prime minister to the First Emperor. Legalist student of Xunzi. "Burning of the Books" and "Burial of the Scholars" associated with Li Si by Han commentators. Served during the reign of the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty. Important proponent of Legalism and opponent of Confucianism in Qin period. Extremely powerful as prime minister, central to the state's policies: including those on military conquest; draconian centralization of state control; standardization of weights, measures, and the written script; and persecution of Confucianism and opponents of Legalism.

Lu Buwei

Lived during Qin Dynasty, died 235 B.C. Prime minister to King of Qin. Wealthy merchant. The Records of the Historian claim the First Emperor of Qin (Qi Shi Huang) was his illigitimate child. Seeks out candidate for potential ruler of Qin, finds one in Zhao. Banished to Shu for implication in a rebellion - commits suicide in 235 B.C. Important part of the scholarly debate between the Legalist/teachings of Xunzi and traditional Confucian teachings. While serving as minister, Lu engaged a number of scholars to produce an encyclopedia of knowledge. The result was the first expertly arranged full-length book, the famous Lushi chunqiu ("The Spring and Autumn [Annals] of Mr. Lu"), a compendium of folklore and pseudoscientific and Daoist writings.

Anyang

Location where oracle bones and turtle plastrons for divination were excavated. Luo Zhenyu (1866-1940) figured this out and Dong Zubin went here in 1928 to determine if there were still oracle bones left, first scientific excavation. Royal tombs at Anyang - burial grounds for the last Shang kings (although not all the 35 generations of Shang kings were buried in Anyang only 11). A great deal was robbed but excavators found some artifacts; piece-mold technology, pre-bronze, and bronzes. Also found bronze inscriptions here Anyang was the first to start burying horses with their masters (unique Anyang innovation)

Hegemon Lords

Lords who own their own feifdoms. Would keep their lineage as heirs like a monarchy. Became powerful and independent of King of Zhou. Started creating own laws and collecting own taxes.

Diamond Sutra

Mahayana sutra. Emphasizes 'non-abiding' (avoiding mental constructs) and 'non-attachment' (giving up cravings). Found among Dunhuang manuscripts. Written in the ninth century. It is the earliest dated printed book.

Warring States

Mostly known through the Spring and Autumn Annals which focuses on the state of Lu, and the Zuo Zhuan, which focuses on the state of Jin. Main states are probably Jin, Chu, Qi, and Qin (which eventually got hegemonically recognized). Massive warfare, on an increasing scale from earlier periods. A period of short-lived alliances, plots, betrayals, and battles. The influence of the Zhou dynasty declined over time, until eventually the strength of the Zhou king was so weak that he became only a figurehead and many of its supposed vassals started calling themselves kinds and fighting among themselves. Part of the Zhou dynasty. Follows the Spring and Autumn period in the 5th century B.C. Ends with the victory of the state of Qin in 221 B.C., marking the beginning of the Qin dynasty. Socially, the constant conflict and need for innovative social and political models led to the development of many philosophical doctrines. The most notable schools of thought include Mohism, expounded by Mozi; Confucianism expanded by Mencius and Xunzi; Taoism, represented by Laozi and Zhuangzi; and Legalism, represented by Shang Yang and Han Feizi.

Laozi

Mythical figure, it is unsure if he is real or just a legend, traditional author of the Daodejing. Met with Confucius (according to the Zhuangzi), a meeting in which Laozi seemed to have the intellectual upper hand. First philosopher emphasizing ideas that are now classified as Daoist. Traditionally considered to have lived during the sixth century B.C. First Daoist, although that classification only came much later, influenced a great deal of later philosophers. One of the legendary philosophers of Chinese history, on the same scale as Confucius.

First Emperor of Qin

Named Qi Shi Huang Ruled 221 - 210 B.C. Unifier of Warring States, originally King of Qin, first emperor of China. Strong supported of Legalism, opponent of traditional Confucian political system. Harsh critic of Confucianism, burned books and scholars to emphasize legalist rule. Responsible for harsh, cruel rule under Qin dynasty; used mass penal labor to build parts of the Great Wall of China, his tomb at Xi'an, massive national road system. As King of the state of Qin, he was responsible for unifying all the regions at the very end of the Warring States period and uniting them into one empire of China in 221 B.C. (ending the Warring States period). Philosophical and political debate between traditional feudal Confucianism and Daoist principles (strongly favored Legalist/Daoist teachings). Member of the Qin Dynasty and ruled Qin from 246-221 B.C. Ruled over unified China 221-210 B.C. First emperor of all of China ("huangdi"); started almost 2000 years of imperial rule. Famous for building massive city0sized mausoleum near Xian with thousands of terra cotta warriors.

Legalism

New political philosophy emphasizing institutions as key to government stability, not moral superiority of the ruler as Confucians claimed. Key ideas: (1) Strength of state institutions more important than ethical rule. (2) State power embodied in the figure of the monarch, is an end in itself. (3) It is the state's business to motivate the people, through positive and negative incentives. Developed by key figures such as Lord Shang and Han Feizi, a student of the philosopher Xunzi, whose negative evaluation of human nature was the impetus for development of legalist political philosophy. The chaos of the Warring States period motivated rulers of the remaining states to seek philosophers and ideas that would allow them to strengthen control over officials and subjects, where traditional Confucian appeal to morals seemed to fail in the face of corruption and cruelty. Created during the Warring States period in the State of Qin, during the Qin dynasty. The state of Qin incorporated Legalist political techniques, giving it the stability and strength to eventually conquer all other Warring States and ultimately establish the Qin Dynasty, establishing the empire of China (that would change over the next several thousand years). Ironically, the harshness of the institutions of the Qin Dynasty were in part to blame for the revolution several decades later and the establishment of the pro-Confucian Han Dynasty.

The Changes Hexagram

Numerical divination technique in the texts. Randomization procedure, traditionally the drawing of stalks of the yarrow plant, used to generate hexagrams. The first hexagram had six unbroken lines, name was Qian, and statement was judgement.

Popular religion

Popular religious movements addressing the need of ordinary people. Chinese religions are family-oriented and do not demand exclusive adherence, allowing the practice or belief of several at the same time. Buddhism, Taoism are two prime examples. One of the largest groups of religious tradition in popular religion is the religion of the Han (which overlaps with Taoism(?)) and the worship of the shens (a collection of local ethnic deities, heroes and ancestors, and figures from Chinese mythology). One possible reason for people beginning to turn to popular religion was because they lacked faith/belief in their rulers and empires.

Book of Odes, Book of Documents, later literary narratives

Received sources from Zhou dynasty Two of the Five Classics of Confucius The Book of Odes: Translated as the Book of Songs or Book of Poetry. Comprised of 305 poems dealing with a rang of issues, including love and marriage, agricultural concerns, daily lives, and war. Contains different categories of poems, including folk songs and hymns used in sacrifice. Kongzi is believed to have selected the 305 poems in this collection from a much wider collection. Book of Documents: A compilation of 58 chapters detailing the events of Ancient China. Tells the deeds of the early sage-kings Yao and Shun. These narratives are influential in the development of the understanding of a sage; also includes the history of the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties. Often considered the first narrative history of ancient China. The other three Classics are the Book of Rites, Books of Changes, and Spring and Autumn Annals.

Emperor Wu of Han

Reigned 141 - 87 B.C. Lead the largest expansion in Chinese imperial history. At its height, the Empire's border spanned from modern Kyrgyzstan in the west, to Korea in the east, and to northern Vietnam in the south. Adopted the principles of Confucianism as the state philosophy and code of ethics for his empire and started a school to teach future administrators the Confucian classics. Han Dynasty - Reigned from March 9, 141 BC to March 29 87 BC. Expanded Chinese territory.

Seclusion/Eremetism

Rise of Daoism emphasized individual insight and isolation. Those who chose ethical principles above service to a corrupt ruler were called 'Moral Heroes'. Concept during Former Han period, 220 BC - 9 AD.

Day names and the Shang week

Royal names given to kings based on the day they would receive rituals and sacrifices. Wu Ding (ca. 1250 - ca. 1200 BC) - Ding is the 4th day. List brought to an end of the Shang dynasty by the Zhou dynast ca. 1050 BC

Sutra

Sermon delivered by the Buddha.

Spring and Autumn states (100 +)

Some important ones: Jin, Yan, Qi, Lu - were all original feifdoms of the Zhou that became very powerful. Chu and Qin - were states created on their own that rose to power. Lu - where Confucius and Duke of Zhou were born.

Scripture on Great Peace

Taiping jing Guide that reveals methods to achieve an era of great peace. "Five Situations": world is in a terrible state of chaose. The universe mirrors the corrupt condition of humanity, and for there to be balance, people must cultivate their inner Dao. Revealed text. Q&A between celestial master and a disciple. Written during the Eastern Han, sometime during first and/or second century AD. Important scripture that expresses early Daoist ideas.

Revelation/Revealed text

Texts that are supernaturally inspired. Called revealed text because revealed by a higher/otherworldly power.

Lunheng

The Scale [Balance] of Discourses The Lunheng, published in 80 CE, is a wide-ranging Chinese classic text containing critical essays by Wang Chong on natural science, Chinese mythology, philosophy, and literature. Written by Wang Chong (more info on his card). Published 80 CE. Was one of the first texts to concentrate on these subjects.

Xunxi

The Xunzi is an example of an "authored text." Confucian philosopher, direct disagreement with Mencius on innate nature of humanity (to Xunzi, human nature was innately bad). Teacher of both Han Fei and Li Si. Geographically mobile career as a minister to Warring States monarchs from Zhao to Qi to Chu. Lived/written during the Warring States period, in State of Qin during third century B.C. Doctrines directly disagreed with Mencius on human nature: Human nature is innately bad, and must be forced into shape. Emphasized rationalist humanism and the role of ritual. Explicit rejection of the supernatural. Suggested anyone could be a sage through study and intellectual inquiry (revolutionary idea).

Enfeoffments

The Zhou strategy to control the land. Exchanged land for political loyalty and military support. Records were usually kept on bronze inscriptions. retaining control over conquered territories. ended up leading to the fall of the Zhou dynasty because these enfeoffments became more and more independent. System somewhat borrow from Shang. Established in the Zhou dynasty

Heaven (tian) Mandate of Heaven (tian ming) Son of Heaven (tian zi)

The belief that the Emperor was the Son of Heaven. Gave the ruler the right to rule over the people. Ruler had to keep religious rituals and rites. Son of Heaven of the reigning one.

Collapse of the Han dynasty

The downfall of the Eastern Han empire was mainly due to political rivalries that occurred in the palaces between eunuchs, the family, empress dowager, and the subjects. Though the emperor managed to gain political power in these endless political rivalries, he was unable to solve the problem faced by the people of China at that time, such as drought and invasion by foreign armies. The problem became worse after the Yellow Turban Rebellion. Cao Cao, one of the warlords then, began to unify the empire under the rule of Emperor Xian. Later he escorted Emperor Xian to his base back in Xu and a new capital was established there. Cao Cao's attempt to unify the Han Empire was foiled when two warlords leading the souther forces met with the Han army at the Battle of Red Cliffs. The Han Dynasty formally ended in 220 AD when the son of Cao Cao, named Cao Pi forced Emperor Xian from his throne. The Han Dynasty collapsed over the period 189-220 AD during the reing of Emperor Xian.

Human nature (xing)

The most profound nature of humans, regardless of their will or customs. Mencius argues that human nature, xing, is inherently good. Term appeared in the Warring States period, most notably coined in the Mencius. Many beyond Mencius have argued about xing: Xunzi for instance argued that human nature was inherently evil.

origins of Chinese writing

There was a thought that much like horses, writing was imported to China. Literacy: Chinese innovations -There was no writing system present to the east of China -Early script in China has all the markers of a newly created writing system. For these reasons it is believed that Chinese writing was a local innovation at that time. Anyang bronze inscriptions. It consisted of simple pictograms.

Zhou ritual - ancestral feasts, and royal audiences

These were food and alcohol vessels mostly. holding banquets for ancestors. indicative of Chinese culture of offering food to ancestors.

Daoism

Traditions of techniques of meditation, breathing exercises, and alchemical pursuit of immortality. Status of the pre-Han daojia texts - Laozi in particular. New, revealed texts, and the accumulation of a distinctive Daoist canon. Collection of texts, taken by Daoist traditions as defining themselves. Daoism as an organized communal religious movement began in the second century AD, when the Han order was losing its hold on the countryside. The Daoist pursuit of longevity was phrased in terms of enhancing the body's yang energy. Remember Laozi's Daodejing. Daoist religion drew inspiration from the quietistic Daoist philosophy from the Zhou period.

Qin unification

Unification of all Warring States (aka the entire politically known world at the time) in 221 BC by the First Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the alleged illegitimate son of the famous merchant Lu Buwei (according to Records of the Historian). Fighting from 230 BC ended in 221 BC with unification. End of the tumultuous Warring States period, many other states vying for power. Finally overcome by one state, Qin, to unify China into one region under one emperor (not "king", as rulers of previous states had styled themselves). 221 BC - start of Qin Dynasty. Imposition of unified administrative system (first time). Local administration staffed by appointed officials, rather than fiefdoms granted to family and supporters of the ruling regime. Economy dependent on conscript labor, massive public works (mausoleum, roads, fortifications, palaces), and bureaucratic control.

Zhuangzi

Zhuangzi can refer to the third century text and its main character (much like Laozi). More extended argument and dialogue than the Laozi or Lunyu. Distinctive use of bizarre or absurd imagery and tales, such as the fish tale where Zhuangzi and Huizi are walking over the Hao river, discussing the pleasures of fish. The author Zhuangzi was a contemporary of Mencius. The only account of the life of Zhuangzi appears much later during the Han dynasty in Sima Qian's Records of the Grand Historian. The actual existence of a person named Zhuangzi is skeptical, but the text survives. Created during the Warring States period, third century B.C. Critique of the possibility of confident, secure knowledge. Critique of social and political ambition, and of self-conscious striving of all kinds. Argued that life is limited and knowledge to be gained is unlimited. Thus, he argued, to use the limited to pursue the unlimited was foolish.

Han Fei

d. 233 B.C., lived during the Warring States period. Writer of "The Hanfezi", another authored text. Student of Xunzi, strong supporter of Legalism. Privileging of institutional mechanism over private interests. Maximizing of utility ahead of principle. Ruler must "grasp" the "handles" of reward and punishment. Frequently harsh statements about statecraft, corruption, and nepotism of Warring States paved the way for Legalism to rise as attractive alternative based on meritocracy and rules. Anti-intellectual thread - independent inquiry and critique is damaging. Important figure in Legalism in ancient China. Saw the role of the monarch to be like a strict father: concealed desire, exercise inaction.

Emperor Gaozu of Han

a.k.a. Liu Bang Ruled Han Dynasty 202 - 195 B.C. First and founding emperor of the Han Dynasty, originally named Liu Bang, took name Gaozu when he declared himself emperor. Led rebellion beginning in 209 BC, last Qin emperor surrendered in 207 BC and declared himself Emperor Gaozu of the new Han Dynasty in 206 BC, would rule until his death in 195 BC. Established new capital at Chang'an (near old Qin capital in ruins) which would grow into a metropolis of culture during the reign of his descendants (Han Dynasty). Known for giving large gifts of land, as feudal states, to allies and members of the Liu family. GIVEN NAME = Liu Bang -> Originally a mailman from Chu, served as a minor official under the Qin dynasty before leading an army against them and seizing power. Established the Han Dynasty after winning a rebellion against the cruel and short-lived Qin dynasty. Founder and first emperor of Han dynasty, very culturally and historically significant period.

Gongsun Yang

a.k.a. Lord Shang, Shang Yang Lived during the Warring States period, ca. 385-338 B.C. Statesman of the State of Qin during the Warring States period. Strong proponent of Legalist philosophies. Responsible for extreme reforms in every area from farming to trade to administration of the government. Very important to the state of Qin and the development of Legalism in general. Arrived in the State of Qin in 361 B.C. Credited with laying the foundation on which the late third century conquests were built. His reforms changed the administration of the state through an emphasis on meritocracy and devolvement of power from the nobility. Introduced objective rule of law and considered loyalty to the state to be above that of family. His policies and reforms helped the states of Qin change from a peripheral state to that of a militarily powerful and strongly centralized kingdom, which eventually would triumph over the other states in the Warring States period.

Mencius

a.k.a. Mengzi = Meng Ke Main interpreter/scholar of Confucianism. Supposedly, was an itinerant philosopher and sage who advised rulers on reforms, like Confucius. His doctrines are held in his book, The Mencius. Successor to Confucius, though not one of his direct disciples, Mencius came later. Mencius defends the philosophy of Confucius against new ideas, for instance the ideas of Mo Di or Yang Zhu. Probably lived 372-289 B.C., during the Warring States period. Mencius was one of the most influential Confucian philosophers, with his work considered the orthodox version by later scholars.

Shang religion

afterlife - when someone dies they are not completely gone - they can affect family members. Kinship is important, one's ancestors were important for rituals and sacrifices(?), one reason for the king list? Sacrifices were done in honor of dead kings (the kind of animal and timing had to be very precise) Di - name of one of the larger entities, not based on western definition of a god; relatively marginal entity compared to the kinship tradition.

Zhou Dynasty

c. 1050 - 256 BC Ruler was now considered Son of Heaven. Notions of Heaven, Mandate of Heaven, and Son of Heaven. Conquered the Shang in 1050 BC King Wen and King Wu. Duke of Zhou Capital = Louyang Enfeoffments

Western Zhou

c. 1050 - 771 BC Maintained by King Wu After King Wu's death, Duke of Zhou assisted the heir (Cheng) to quell rebellious Zhou princes, feudal rulers, and Shang partisans. Countered Zhou's crisis of legitimacy through the Mandate of Heaven. Decentralization was a strain, and familial relationships between the Zhou kings and regional dynasties thinned over the years The move of the capital to Chengzhou marked the end of the Western Zhou.

Zhou conquest of Shang

c. 1050 BC Led by King Wu after King Wu raised an army. Army came from the West and sacked Anyang. The Shang were seen as corrupt rulers, allowing King Wu to rally more and more peoples under his cause to overthrow the Shang and replace them with the Zhou dynasty. In order to validate this overthrow, the Mandate of Heaven was issued by the Zhou rulers. The Mandate of Heaven claimed that a higher power, namely the "Heavens" that controlled all of the happenings in the universe, had wanted the Zhou to overthrow the Shang because, despite the Shang originally coming to power in favor of the Heavens, the unjust and oppressive ways they ruled caused them to lose favor with Heaven.

Warring States Period

c. 450 - 221 BC period from 450 BC to the reunification fo China under the Qin Dynasty in 221 BC. Second part of the Eastern Zhou dynasty. The seven warring states were: Qin in the west, Chu on the southern frontier and around the middle of the Yangzi River, Qi to the east in Shandong, Yan in the far northeast(?) near Beijing, and in the center from South to North were Han, Wei, and Zhao. Crossbows used because they were resourceful and cheap. Bronze became dominant metal in warfare. Armies made up of infantries and cavalries. Rulers of states known as 'dukes' originally and then became known as kings. Period of many philosophers.

Wu Ding

ca. 1250 - ca. 1200 BC Ding is the 4th day One of the earliest of the Shang kings to be present at Anyang. The earliest texts are from his reign, dated based on the references to his father and grandfather.

Shang dynasty

ca. 1600 - ca. 1050 BC Scale of production (oracle bones, sacrifices, chariots manufactured, etc.) went through the roof during the Shang dynasty (compared to the more refined and frugal Zhou dynasty) Anyang was the capital

The Way

dao The object of spiritual practice (for many schools of thought) is to become one with the dao. The dao cannot be expressed in words, but it can be known or experienced. Each school of though has a different view of what the dao is. This concept is found in different texts, with slightly different meanings. Probably originates with the Daodejing, traditionally believed to have been written in the sixth century B.C. Daoism- the dao is the fundamental concept of Daoism. It is the fundamental order underlying the universe. Buddhism- the word was probably taken from Daoist tradition when Buddhism spreads into China. The dao is emptiness and it is wordless. To reach the dao results in enlightenment. Confucianism - the dao is the absolute towards which the junzi strives.

Zhang Daoling

fl. A.D. 142 Taoist figure credited with foundng the Way of the Celestial Masters sect of Taoism, which is known as the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice Movement (one of the earliest and most influential schools of institutional Daoism). He was able to harness popular yearnings for a new and better age into a major religious movement. His sect survived in Sichuan. Lived during the Eastern Han Dynasty.

Shang king list

list contained in Records of the Historian. organized as a list of successive kings, occasionally one will have an anecdote attached. "Yin Fundamental Records" Yin is another name for Shang The accounts contain a great deal of mythology mixed in with the history. Most royal names are "day names". A succession of 35 "begats", geneological names. Also found in the oracle bones excavated from Anyang? Most royal names are day names.

Cheng Zhou

modern Luoyang In 1136 BC, was established by Duke of Zhou as a settlement for the captured Shang nobility. This was the capital of the Eastern Zhou, and the move of the capital marked the end of the Western Zhou. When the Qin captured this capital, it marked the end of the Zhou dynasty. Later, was established the capital of the Hang dynasty. Significance: This is important because the Eastern Zhou was known for the "hundred schools of thought" including Confucianism (interpreted by Mencius and Xunzi), Legalism, Taoism, etc.

Qilin (pronounced Kilin)

mythical beast of omen Mythical beast. Beast of compassion (ren). Beast of good omen, usually announces the birth of a sage or a great ruler. This beast announces the birth of Confucius. When a Qilin is found dead, Confucius weeps: it is a beast of ren, and since it is dead, Confucius's dao is a cul-de-sac. I.e., not a good omen. Confucius dies soon after.

Divination

oracle bones - not a Shang innovation, others do it too - very common. From Neolithic through modern times, from Tibet to Japan, creatively adapted to each circumstance. Diviners would submit questions to deities regarding future weather, crop planting, the fortunes of members of the royal family, military endeavors, and other similar topics. These topics were carved onto the bone or shell in oracle bone script using a sharp tool. Intense heat was then applied with a metal rod until the bone or shell cracked due to thermal expansion. The diviner would then interpret the patter of cracks and write the prognostication upon the piece.

The Duke of Zhou

played a major role in consolidating the kingdom established by his brother, King Wu. Renowned for acting as a capable and loyal regent for his young nephew King Cheng and successfully suppressed a number of rebellions, placating the Shang nobility with titles and positions. credited for elaborating the "Mandate of Heaven"

received or transmitted vs. excavated texts

received and transmitted - composed or edited or put together at some point in the past and copied and copied until today. The copy we have today is different from the original but hopefully content is still the same. Excavated - text is buried and eventually found. Never been copied, written in the same way that they were originally produced. Significance: Original message of excavated texts might be differently interpreted than what was originally intended (some sense of the message might have been lost over time, not explained throughout generations; leads to some misinterpretation)

Five Phases

wu xing Created by Zou Yan who was a represntative thinker of the Yin and Yang. Idea came to maturity in the second or first century BC during the Han dynasty. Was employed in many fields of early Chinese thought, including seemingly disparate fields such as geomancy or Feng Shui, astrology, traditional Chinese medicine, music, military strategy and martial arts. Phases through which matter (i.e. qi) can transform. Conquest cycle: Water (extinguishes fire) Fire (which melts metal) Metal (which cuts wood) Wood (which digs earth) Soil (which absorbs water) Generation cycle: Wood (which catches fire) Fire (which reduces to ash) Soil (in which metals form) Metal (which liquifies when melted) Water (which nourishes wood) Five Phases - Correlation Theory of correlations between five phases and other physical or human phenomena.