Title

The Formation of Tang Xuanzong’s Yuzhu Xiaojing: An Investigation of the Japanese Edition of Wang Xizhi’s Caoshu Xiaojing

Author

Zhuang, Bing

Genre

Article  

Pages

235-274

Download

PDF

Language

Chinese  

Key words

Tang Xuanzong, Tang Xuanzong’s Xiaojing, Wang Xizhi’s Caoshu, Xiaojing, Xuanzong’s preface, Xiaojing Zhizhi

Abstract

      On the basis of evidence found in the Japanese edition of Wang Xizhi’s Caoshu Xiaojing, this article discusses issues related to the production and revision of Tang Xuanzong’s Yuzhu Xiaojing in order to determine the reasons behind its production and its historical value. The article seeks to demonstrate three main points. (a) In the beginning of the Kaiyuan era, Xuanzong produced the Xiaojing Zhizhi in order to encourage the members of the royal clan to study the Xiaojing, put filial piety into practice, and prevent the usurpation of his throne. In March of 715, Xuanzong bestowed Wang Xizhi’s Caoshu Xiaojing upon Xue Wangye, and revised the “Zhizhi” preface to create the “Chi Xue Wangye” preface. (b) The Kaiyuan edition of Xuanzong’s Xiaojing replaced the controversial Zhengzhu and Kongzhuan versions of the text. Not only was it confirmed as one of the Confucian classics to be used in the imperial examinations, it also had the effect of easing conflict between officials. (c) In 743, Xuanzong revised his commentary on the Xiaojing and replaced the “Yuan Xingchong” preface with the “Zhizhi” preface. In 745, he created the Shitai Xiaojing to declare that a time of peace and prosperity had arrived due to his filial style of governance.