英文摘要 |
In surveying research on Zhuangzi, one finds that interpretations of Great Peng as understood by both contemporary scholars and ancient commentators generally fall into two categories: the first group believes the Great Peng symbolizes one who has attained the way; the second group argues that it symbolizes one who has not yet reached the state of complete independence. In reviewing the research of prior critics, it is not hard to become aware of the crucial question: is Great Peng restricted by the conditions of time and space? In the end, does it rely or not rely on any external factors? Can it ride the ever-changing and roam the infinite? This appears to be the key factor in determining who is alluded to by Great Peng and whether it symbolizes the highest state of attainment. In decoding the "water" and "wind" metaphors, one finds that the highest power of "riding" (cheng) and "controlling" (yu) is manifested independent of time and space. Yet, in decoding the metaphoric complex of the "debate on great and small" in "Carefree Roaming," one finds that, in terms of the three aspects of space, experiential time, and intellectual capability, Great Peng differs nonetheless from the paradigm of the state of "I was born with the heavens and the earth" that marks the highest attainment in Zhuangzi, and is also in contradistinction with the Zhuangzi "wisdom" of "knowing where one belongs" and "returning to the root with integrity." Moreover, from examining the positive implementation of techniques or the concrete contents of a life of the "highest," the "divine," and the "saintly man," one can infer that, in the book of Zhuangzi, what corresponds with the metaphoric tenor of "the one who has attained the way" should be the metaphoric vehicles of "returning," "nest," and "chaos," which suggest an inward return and reduction to nothingness, rather than the rapid actions of "shu," "hu," or the Great Peng that flies out for 90,000 li. |