This paper seeks to investigate the way Lu De-Ming compiled Jingdian Shiwen (Textual Explanations of Classics and Canons) in the Tang Dynasty. On a more specific basis, how did he systematically collate various issues concerning the history of the study of Confucian classics since the Qin, Han and Six Dynasties in Jingdian Shiwen, and thereby presented integrated and unified research findings?
The general principles and methods that Lu applied to accomplishing this monumental task include: (1) redefine the scope of classics; (2) establish the criteria for ordering the classics; (3) transcend the dichotomy between archaic scripts and new-text Confucianism; and (4) grasp the connotation and significance of classics by correcting the pronunciation of the keywords in annotated classics.