Summary of PhD thesis: Le Phuong Duy

Vietnam National University, Hanoi

UNIVERSITY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIESVEAT

-------------------------------

 

 

 

Le Phuong Duy

 

 

 

SPRING AND AUTUMN GUAN KIEN:TEXT PROBLEM

AND THE CONFUCIANISM OF NGO THI NHAM

 

Specialized:Han Nom

Code:62 22 01 04

 

 

 

 SUMMARYDOCTORAL THESIS ON CHINESE NOM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hanoi- 2020

 

 

INTRODUCTION

1. Reasons for choosing the topic

Spring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenCompiled by Ngo Thi Nham during the 5 years of hiding from the Tam Phu Kieu Binh (1782 - 1786). This can be considered a comprehensive commentary on the entire Buddhist scriptures.Spring and AutumnThe first and only of Vietnam. Compared with the works of Buddhist commentary of the same period,Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenhas a larger capacity than all. And not only is it large in capacity, this work also contains many academic and ideological values ​​that need to be exploited and clarified.Spring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenPerhaps it was not only a place for Ngo Thi Nham to confide his thoughts and speak his mind about current events, especially his personal involvement in the Canh Ty case (1780), but also to demonstrate his intellectual stature, education, as well as his ambitions and aspirations when he wanted to rely on the interpretation of scriptures.Spring and Autumnto find a way out for themselves and contemporary society. Therefore, the researchSpring and Autumn Managementhas important meaning and contribution to the research on the person, academics, and thoughts of Ngo Thi Nham. At the same time, the researchSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablencan also contribute to clarifying some issues of Confucianism and Vietnamese Classics in this period.

Although it was introduced quite early, up to now, we have very few research works that specifically and deeply approach it.Spring and Autumn Managementboth in terms of text and content and ideology. Based on understanding the research situation, current state of documents, determining the objectives and feasibility of the topic, as well as the needs and research capabilities of individuals, we decided to choose the work.Spring and Autumn Managementis the research object for the thesis:Spring and Autumn Annals:ProblemDyesvaConfucianism and ideology of Ngo Thi Nham.

2. Scientific objectives

First of all, the thesis uses textual research to clarify the textual situation ofSpring and Autumn Management,determine the quality of the text and select a reliable version for translation and research. Second, on the basis of directly exploiting the original textSpring and Autumn Management,The thesis focuses on studying some of Ngo Thi Nham's economic activities inSpring and Autumn Management,From there, proceed to clarify some Confucian thoughts of Ngo Thi Nham expressed in the work and give comments and assessments.

3. Research object - Scope of documents

3.1.Dresearch object

The research object of the thesis is the workSpring and Autumn Managementby Ngo Thi Nham, which focuses on the issues of text, Kinh learning activities and Confucianism of Ngo Thi Nham.

3.2. Scope of documents

The scope of the thesis is text.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen(including 3 versions A.117; VHv.806; VHv.807 currently kept at the Institute of Han Nom Studies). Besides, Ngo Thi Nham's remaining documents such asGolden Horse Passage, Idle Bay on Water Clouds, Flowers in the Cold Pavilion…can provide supplementary information for the study of Ngo Thi Nham's Confucianism inSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenare also documents that the topic is interested in.

4. Research methods

The thesis used the following research methods:

+ Literary and translation methods to explain the content of the workSpring and Autumn Management.

+ Textual and taboo methods to solve textual problems (survey, select base version, compare different versions, determine age, publish reliable version...) ofSpring and Autumn Management.

+ Research methods of scriptures and hermeneutics to exploit and decode the ideological and meaningful content in the work

+ Descriptive, analytical, statistical, classification, comparative, and contrastive methods (synchronic, diachronic) will be used throughout the research process.

+ In addition, the topic also combines the use of interdisciplinary approaches of history, history of ideas, culture,...

5. Contributions of the thesis

- The thesis summarizes the research and translation situation related to the topic from the 60s of the 20th century to the present. On that basis, it evaluates the achievements and shortcomings of previous works.

- Survey, compare, and make a table of some parts in the 3 versions.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,make judgments about the quality, guess the date and select the VHv.807 text as a reliable version for translation and research.

- Point out Ngo Thi Nham's point of view on the birth, meaning and value of economics.Spring and Autumn,compilation purposeSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.

- Summarize and present the four main methods used by Ngo Thi Nham to interpret the scriptures.Spring and Autumn.

- Research and clarify some issues aboutstyleandDyesĩa Spring and Autumndiscussed in the work.

- Research and clarify Ngo Thi Nham's thoughts in aspects such as human-human induction, ethics - cultivation, politics, and military. Initially, there is a comparison between Ngo Thi Nham's thoughts inSpring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenWith some of his other works, it points out some factors from the historical context that influenced Ngo Thi Nham's classic interpretation and ideology.

- Provide a translation note (selected)Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenof good quality for research purposes.

6. Structure of the thesis

In addition to the Introduction, Conclusion, References, and Appendix, the thesis is divided into four chapters.

Chapter 1: Overview of research status related to the topic and research orientation.

Chapter 2: Textual problems of the Spring and Autumn Annals

Chapter 3: Ngo Thi Nham's economic activities in the Spring and Autumn Annals

Chapter 4: Confucianism of Ngo Thi Nham in Spring and Autumn Annals

 

Chapter 1. OVERVIEW OF RELATED RESEARCH

DUNMARKETABLENDYeahTALENT ANDDRESEARCH ORIENTATION

1.1. Overview of the scripturesSpring and Autumn

Coingrace periodThe Sutra is one of the Confucian classics and also the earliest extant Chinese chronological history. According to legend,Spring and AutumnConfucius compiled it based on the historical books of Lu.Spring and AutumnThere are three seriesBiography of Zuo Shi, Biography of GongyangandLegend of Coc Luong,collectively calledThe Three Tales of Spring and Autumn春秋三傳.During the Song Dynasty, a set ofThe Legend of the Ho ClanThe Book of Changes was compiled by Hu An Guo. This book has had a great influence on later generations.Three storiestogether withStorytelling程傳, Lake Story胡傳 is also calledSpring and Autumn Ngustory.

1.2. Concept explanation

+) Spring and Autumn Studies

Spring and Autumn Studiesis a part of the study of scriptures, which specializes in the study ofSpring and Autumnalong with the Confucian commentaries and commentaries on this sutra throughout history and related issues.

+) Rules

“Rules” 體例Spring and Autumnalso known as “rules” 例, “brushwork” 筆法, “calligraphy” 書法, “meaningful rules” 義例. “Rules” are the basis, the means to seek “great meaning in words”Spring and Autumnin writing. The ancients believed that when Confucius compiledSpring and Autumn "whatDCopy is copy, what?D"If you want to leave, then leave."(筆則筆，削則削). In Confucius's "writing" there are principles. That is the format or principle of recording and editing Confucius's History of Lu.

+)Dyesĩa:

Great causeSpring and Autumnrecognized by scholars throughout history as the political thought of Confucius contained inSpring and Autumn.Great causeSpring and AutumnMainly including the correct names, the designated status, the derogatory terms, the revered kings and the barbarians, and the great unification.

+) Micro-language

“Vi ngon” are deep, hidden words that cannot be expressed in words. Tuong Ba Tiem explains “vi ngon” as follows:“Outside "Dyesĩa", Spring and Autumn Annals also has "wei yan". "wei yan" is the reform of the law.unmarketable, toDlike the worldDpeace came. Confucius through "helping people to understand"ĩa”Dto entrust his political ideals to Spring and Autumn.The "great meaning" can be sought in the text, but the "micro-words" cannot be discussed in words.

+) Management

“Spring and Autumn View” means having a limited understanding of the scriptures.Spring and Autumn,is the self-deprecating title of Ngo Thi Nham. However, although it is a "general view", the purpose of the narrative, the level of interest and the content of the analysis of Ngo Thi Nham shown in the work are not limited.

1.3. Related research and translation situationDunmarketablenDyestalent

With existing documents, we can summarize the research and translation situation related to the topic in 3 aspects:

1.3.1. Author's research situation, van Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen and research work, effectivenessDpoints

1.3.1.1. ProblemDyesauthor

Based on information in two translationsCalendaryeshiunmarketablen chapters of the chronicle(version of History Publishing House, 1961 and version of Translation Committee, Ministry of Culture, Education and Youth, Saigon, 1974) said the author ofSpring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenNgo Thi Sy and Mai Ngoc Hong have researched documents and reaffirmed the author.Spring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenIt must be Ngo Thi Nham and not Ngo Thi Sy.

1.3.1.2. ProblemDyesvan version and research work, editingDpoints

In this aspect, we can mention works such as:Explore the Han Nom book collection - Source of documentsaVietnamese history studies -Volume 2 of Tran Van Giap,Vietnam's Han Nom Heritage - DirectoryDyesyunmarketableu, Poetry Collection van Ngo Thi Nham-Introduction- episode 2;Ngo Thi Nham's works -Volume 4 (Mai Quoc Lien, editor-in-chief);Complete Works of Ngo Thi Nham -Volume 4 (Lam Giang editor-in-chief); PartEffectDwater pointunmarketableI thinkaboutSpring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketableninConfucianism - The Essence of the Borderby Dinh Thanh Hieu. It can be said that the introduction to the textSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenin the above works (except the original)Confucianism) has only stopped at the level of generalization and outline.

1.3.2. Research status of Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen and the thoughts of Ngo Thi Nham

1.3.2.1 Research worksyeshistory of thought, Vietnamese Confucianism

There are not many research works in this group. First of all, we can mention the workHistory of Vietnamese Thought -Episode 1,Nguyen Tai Thu, editor-in-chief, Social Sciences Publishing House, Hanoi, 1997. In chapter XXIII, the authors quoted a few passages ofSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablento present the political and social thoughts, philosophical thoughts, and human ethics of Ngo Thi Nham, but the arguments and assessments are still quite sketchy.

PhD ThesisTrends of Vietnamese Confucianism in the second half of the 18th centuryDearly 19th century and the impactDits movement to van studyby Nguyen Kim Son (University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 1996), is the first work to devote a section to presenting aboutSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenfrom the perspective of Kinh. The comments and assessments contained therein are very useful for future researchers.

InSome issuesDyesvyesVietnamese Confucianismedited by Phan Dai Doan, National Political Publishing House, 1998,The group of authors also introduced the works and classic approaches of Ngo Thi Nham.

1.3.2.2. Research worksyesNgo Thi Nham

First of all, the bookNgo Thi Nham - man and careeredited by Van Tan, published by Ha Tay Department of Culture and Information in 1974, quoted some passages ofSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablento illustrate some political thoughts, views on life and ethics of Ngo Thi Nham.

ProjectNgo Thi Nham in vaTay Son Schoolby Mai Quoc Lien published by Nghia Binh Department of Culture and Information in 1985 also briefly introduced the context of its creation and some of its contents.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,as well as initially give their own assessments.

Two thesesThoughts of Ngo Thi Nham (1746 - 1803)by Tran Ngoc Anh (defended at the Southern Institute of Social Sciences, 2006) andNgo Thi Nham's social and political thoughtsby Tran Thi Thuy Ngoc (defended at University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU, 2019), also usedSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablento present some of Ngo Thi Nham's thoughts. But in general, both authors have not exploited much information fromSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.

1.3.2.3. Specialized research projectsyesSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen

In addition to the above thesis, Tran Thi Thuy Ngoc also has works directly related toSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenlike the article 吳時任的春秋管見的管見 (Managing ants inSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenby Ngo Thi Nham) in the international conference "Confucianism in Vietnam and East Asia in Modern Times" (Confucianism in Vietnam and East Asia in Modern Times) held at Tzu Chi University, Taiwan, 2012 and the articleThe transfer of the ballunmarketableNgo Thi Nham's thoughts from Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen to Truc Lam sect's original purity,Journal of Philosophy, No. 7, 2015.However, the author's analysis and comments are brief. And most of the data used is based on existing translations, not exploited from the original text.

1.3.3. Translation situation of Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen

The book can be consideredVietnamese ideologyunmarketable18th century (selected documents),2 volumes, Institute of Philosophy, Vietnam Social Sciences Committee, 1972 is the first selected translation documentSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.This book briefly introduces Ngo Thi Nham and his political and philosophical thoughts, and also selects and translates 5 sections of his works.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.

Next isPoetry Collection van Ngo Thi Nham(Volume 2), Hanoi Social Sciences Publishing House, 1978 introduced the issue of text and content.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,At the same time, 7 sections of this book were translated. Of the first 5 sections, the translated text is largely similar to the 5 sections in the collection.Vietnamese ideologyunmarketable18th century (selected documents),perhaps there was a legacy.

Total episodeaVietnamese Studies - Volume 7,Nguyen Loc, editor-in-chief, Social Sciences Publishing House, Hanoi, 2000 andNgo family collectionan sect -Episode 1, co-hosted by Tran Thi Bang Thanh and Lai Van Hung, introduces the preface.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,This translation is the translation inPoetry Collection van Ngo Thi Nham.

In the two sets of introductions to Ngo Thi Nham's poetry and literature, which are quite large in scale, are:Ngo Thi Nham's works,4 volumes, edited by Mai Quoc Lien (Literature Publishing House and National Studies Center, 2002) andComplete Works of Ngo Thi Nham,5 volumes, edited by Lam Giang (Social Sciences Publishing House, Hanoi, 2005),has dedicated separate volumes to introducing and translatingSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.

1.3.4. Some comments

In general, up to this point, we have had very few specialized, in-depth studies onSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen. The existing works of Vietnamese academia, mostly stop at the level of introduction, case studies, preliminary, narrow perspective, scope of approach and research methods and orientations have not been clearly established. Therefore, the research results achieved are not many.

1.4.Dorienting the issuesDyesmedical researchunmarketableu ofthesis

Based on the summary of the research situation, the thesis outlines three research directions to be implemented: 1. On the issue of text. 2. On the issue of Spring and Autumn Studies. 3. On the issue of Confucianism of Ngo Thi Nham.

SubunmarketableChapter 1

The introductory, research and translation works that Chapter 1 has summarized have only exploited this topic in a very limited way.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,Most of them are just a small part of a large research project on the history of ideology, the history of Vietnamese Confucianism or the ideology of Ngo Thi Nham. From the above research situation, to overcome the limitations of previous research projects, the thesis has outlined the research direction and tasks including three main contents: Textual issues, Spring and Autumn Studies issues (mainly including the problem of methodological interpretation, content of "rules" and "great meaning" of Spring and Autumn) and the problem of Confucian ideology of Ngo Thi Nham.

 

Chapter 2. TEXT ISSUES OFSPRING AND AUTUMN GUAN KIUNMARKETABLEN

2.1.Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen -author, work

2.1.1. Biography of Ngo Thi Nham

Ngo Thi Nham 吳時任 (1746 － 1803) was the eldest son of Ngo Thi Sy. As a child, his name was Pho 付, later changed to Nham 任, given name Hy Doan 希尹, alias Dat Hien 達軒, when studying Zen, he took the name Hai Luong Zen master. In the year At Mui, Canh Hung 36 (1775), he passed the Third Class Doctorate exam, then became an official for the Le - Trinh dynasty. In the year Mau Than (1788), Nguyen Hue went to the North for the second time, Ngo Thi Nham became an official for the Tay Son dynasty. When the Tay Son dynasty fell (1802), King Gia Long ordered Dang Tran Thuong to take him and Phan Huy Ich to be beaten at the Temple of Literature. He died after that beating, on February 16, Quy Hoi year (March 9, 1803), at the age of 58. It can be said that Ngo Thi Nham was an outstanding thinker, politician, writer, and military strategist in Vietnamese history in the late 18th century.

2.1.1. The work Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen

Spring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenCompiled by Ngo Thi Nham during his time in hiding from the Tam Phu Kieu Binh (1782). This work is based on the Kim Van text.Spring and Autumnpresents and comments on historical events of the Spring and Autumn period from Lu Yingong 1 (722 BC) to Lu Aigong 14 (481 BC), including 12 Gongs (242 years) based on references and comparisons withThree storiesand interpretation ofStorytelling, Storytelling(ieThe Legend of the Ho Clanof Ho An Quoc of the Song Dynasty), along with a number of Confucian scholars of all periods. All the events that occurred during the 12 reigns of the Dukes ofSpring and Autumnfully quoted by Ngo Thi Nham. Compared with the works of commentary on Buddhist scriptures of the same period,Spring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenhas a fairly large capacity.

2.2. Text description

2.2.1. Van version A.117

Document A.117 consists of 7 volumes, kept at the Institute of Han Nom Studies. This is a handwritten copy, written in a simple, consistent style throughout the document. In general, the writing is clear, easy to read, and there are few variant words. The document has a bullet point and a point. Document A.117 is the document that most completely copies the content ofSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.

2.2.2. Van VHv version. 806

Document VHv.806, kept at the Institute of Han Nom Studies, consists of 1005 pages. This is a handwritten document, consisting of 4 volumes, with a note and a recommendation. The style of writing in the document is not consistent between volumes. In general, document VHv.806 is relatively difficult to process, because in many places the letters are small, scribbled, many vulgar and different words, plus the erasures and editing are not clean. Document VHv.806 lacks partDuke Xiang.

2.2.3. Van VHv version. 807

Document VHv.807, kept at the Institute of Han Nom Studies, consists of 1520 pages. This is a handwritten copy, consisting of 7 volumes, written in cursive style, with a consistent writing style from beginning to end. Although written in cursive style, the characters are clear, open, and easier to read than document VHv.806. The document has a bullet point and a point. At the end of the document, a section of about 103 words is missing..The text may have been torn off this page.

2.3. Compare different versions

2.3.1. Select versionyesn

Based on the actual situation of the documentSpring and Autumn AnnalsunmarketablenAs presented above, we chose text A.117 as the base text to conduct research and comparison. Although this is the latest text, the contentSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenfully preserved, clear text, clear structure, simple handwriting, with passing points.

2.3.2. Analysis of variants

In this section, we base on the theory of textual studies to divide the differences and imports between different versions into two main types: unconscious differences (including errors in copying words, errors in copying missing words/sentences/paragraphs, errors in copying extra words, errors in copying wrongly, errors in sentence structure) and conscious differences (using different words, using different sentences), along with other phenomena such as text import and export, using equivalent pairs of words. From the statistics, it can be seen that unconscious differences account for the majority. In terms of quality, we see that VHv.807 is the version with the fewest errors and the best quality, followed by A.117 and finally VHv.806 has the lowest quality.

2.4. Text generation

To determine the text generation, we rely on two criteria:

+) About the date of the document:

Based on the characteristics of the calligraphy, the taboo word is as in the sectionText descriptionAs presented, we see that document A.117 was copied by the French Institute of the Far East, so it is the latest in date (around the beginning of the 20th century). The two documents VHv.806 and VHv.807 are older, copied around the end of the 19th century - the beginning of the 20th century. However, we do not have enough data to prove which document came first.

+) About text similarity:

Based on the survey results, we believe that text A.117 is most likely copied from text VHv.806, but may refer to other text sources (possibly including VHv.807), so some errors of VHv.806 have been corrected. However, due to lack of information, the establishment of a transmission diagram ofSpring and Autumn Managementnot possible

2.5. Select the publication version

After surveying, based on the criteria for publishing Texts, we decided to choose text VHv.807 as the most reliable version to publish and use in research and translation.

Chapter 2 Summary

In this chapter, we have used the methods of textual research, taboo studies... to conduct a survey and describe in detail the appearance of 03 texts.Spring and Autumn Managementincluding A.117, VHv.806, VHv.807, making conjectures about the text's age, choosing A.117 as the base text to compare, analyze the different versions, and classify the differences between the texts. We have made tables, provided the research data and information about the integrity, similarities, advantages and disadvantages of each text. The research results show that all 03 texts have errors and omissions. However, VHv.807 is the best text to serve the research and translation work.

 

Chapter 3. NGO THI NHAM'S ECONOMICAL ACTIVITIES

INSPRING AND AUTUMN GUAN KIEN

3.1. Ngo Thi Nham's views on the birth, nature and value of economicsSpring and Autumn

3.1.1. Viewpoints on the birth of the Spring and Autumn Annals

Ngo Thi Nham inherited the traditional Confucian view to continue to affirm that Confucius was the author.Spring and Autumnthrough his quoting of Mencius's words in the chapterThe Descendant of Duke Wen of Teng - Menciusand no other comments. And at the end of the work, Ngo Thi Nham raised the causeSpring and Autumnborn to a new level, that is because"heaven and earth, human affairs and material things are composed"At the same time, it praised Confucius's "eight rebellions and anti-government" achievements in this classic..

3.1.2. Viewpoints on the nature and value of the Spring and Autumn Annals

Ngo Thi Nham paid special attention to the "hinh thu" nature and the value of "vi van the giam" (to serve as a mirror for all generations) and "kinh the chi dien" (rules for governing the world) ofSpring and Autumn,as well as the achievements of "eight rebellions against the government", "thuy tuyen", "thuy giao" (leaving teachings) for future generations of Confucius. Through that, Ngo Thi Nham's ideology of worshiping the Saints and classics is expressed continuously, systematically and clearly.

3.2. Purpose of compilationSpring and Autumn Management

As can be seen,Spring and Autumn Managementwas born with the first purpose of serving Ngo Thi Nham himself as a subject. Second, he wanted to promote the Dharma throughSpring and AutumnIn this book series, we aim to help scholars cure the mental illness of only knowing how to parrot, without fully understanding the meaning of the classics, so that from there"when dealing with life"maybe"establish oneself, conduct oneself", "decide national affairs, establish governance".It can be said that the spirit of "understanding the scriptures and using them wisely" is the main reason to promoteSpring and Autumn Managementalong with other commentaries on the scriptures that followed one another during this period.

3.3. Method of analysis

3.3.1.Using the Three Stories and Interpretations of the Confucianists

InSpring and Autumn Management,There are about more than 1020 events that Ngo Thi Nham quoted in his stories.Three stories(Descriptionhas the highest citation rate), 15 citation eventsStorytelling,3 events citedLake Storyand 41 events quoting the comments of other Confucian scholars. The rest are events that only quote the scriptures, without any narratives. The level of quoting narratives is not uniform, depending on the nature of the event and the author's interest. The quoting of narratives in the work is closely related to the partManagerlater. In which, the author can: 1. Agree with the information in the novel and continue to discuss and explain its meaning. 2. Refute the information in the novel, give his own opinion to prove and correct it. 3. Discuss other issues based on the information in the novel.

3.3.2.“Using the classics to interpret the classics” - using other Confucian classics to interpret the Spring and Autumn Annals

Citing other Confucian classics to explainSpring and Autumnis a tradition of the scriptures. While quoting, sometimes Ngo Thi Nham cited each scripture individually, or sometimes cited 2, 3 or even 4 scriptures at the same time. Generally speaking, inSpring and Autumn Management,Ngo Thi Nham ledTerrible(I Ching, Book of Songs, Book of Documents, Book of Rites, Zhou Rites) more than leadStory(Four BooksIn citing the scriptures,I ChingandBook of Poetryis more than that.

3.3.3.“Memorizing events” and the problem of stringing together information to narrate and comment on events

"Belonging to the historical record" is a characteristic of the writing style.Spring and Autumnmentioned in the bookCommentary - Rites.InSpring and Autumn Management,In many events mentioned in the scriptures, Ngo Thi Nham has proceeded to string together and connect information from before to after to narrate or explain in a relatively detailed and coherent way the cause, beginning, end, development, and result of an event or a story. This method can help readers easily grasp the beginning and end of the event and see the author's intention in commenting.

3.3.4."Using history as a mirror" - using Spring and Autumn to illuminate history

In the work, Ngo Thi Nham not only comments on the events and meanings ofSpring and Autumn,but also brings the events and meanings in this sutra to light on historical issues. From the sutras, connect and prove historical lessons, at the same time use historical lessons to explain and supplement the meanings of the sutras (“using history to prove the sutras” 以史證經), in order to assist in self-cultivation and political work.

3.4. Views on the style (writing style) of Spring and Autumn Annals

In the thesis, we based on the division of regulations.Spring and Autumnin the bookSpring and Autumn Annals Three Tales of Righteousness and Rituals Researchof Trieu Nhac Boi to present aboutThe Record of the State of Lu(King Lu ascends the throne; King Lu meets and returns to his country; Lady and Princess of Lu; Great official of Lu; disaster of Lu; construction of Lu);Word usage(use words for war, use words for diplomacy);Title pronouns(Title of the feudal lord, title of the high official). In each case, we give examples and analyze, pointing out the inheritance and development of the rules.Spring and Autumnby Ngo Thi Nham.

3.5. View of the Great CauseSpring and Autumn

InSpring and Autumn Management,Great causeSpring and AutumnNgo Thi Nham often mentioned and discussed in each specific case with different levels. Due to the limitation of the thesis, we focus on understanding the interpretation of Dai NghiaSpring and AutumnNgo Thi Nham's three issues: 1. "Defining the status" 定名分 (clearly defining the order of superiors and inferiors, not allowing chaos), 3. "Respecting the King and suppressing the barbarians" 尊王攘夷 (respecting the King of Zhou, suppressing the barbarians), 5. Great unification 大一統.

SubunmarketabletChapter 3

In Chapter 3, we focused on presenting five main issues, including: Ngo Thi Nham's views on the birth, meaning and value of economicsSpring and Autumn,compilation purposeSpring and Autumn Management,method of analysis,view of form and view of meaningSpring and Autumnof Ngo Thi Nham. With the method of interpretation, we have pointed out four main methods that Ngo Thi Nham used to approachSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen.We have also devoted a lot of space to presenting Ngo Thi Nham's views on some typical cases of rules and principles. Through this, we initially point out Ngo Thi Nham's acceptance and inheritance of rules and principles from the Spring and Autumn Studies tradition..But at the same time, it also points out the establishment of rules and the promotion of the spirit of great justice through the interpretations bearing the strong personal mark and profound knowledge of Ngo Thi Nham. The careful study of the method of interpretation, rules, and great justiceSpring and Autumnis the foundation for us to learn about Ngo Thi Nham's Confucianism inSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenin the next part.

 

Chapter 4. CONFUCIUS THOUGHTS OF NGO THI NHAM

INSPRING AND AUTUMN GUAN KIUNMARKETABLEN

4.1. The idea of ​​divine and human induction

InSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,Ngo Thi Nham paid special attention to discussing the issue of "human-heavenly induction". He believed thatSpring and AutumnHe recorded the events of calamity and disaster, thoroughly understood the events before and after, and saw their fulfillment. He was not indifferent or unconnected. He believed that human affairs could change the course of nature, provided that people knew how to fear the course of nature, cultivate virtue, and reform the government.

4.2. Ethical ideology and self-cultivation

4.2.1. Cultivating loyalty and filial piety - the root of the Spring and Autumn teachings

Ngo Thi Nham considered loyalty and filial piety to be the key issue, the root of the teachings of theSpring and Autumn.The purpose of Ngo Thi Nham compilationSpring and Autumn ManagementFirst of all, it is to serve oneself, to personally receive and understand, thereby seeking a method to learn to be loyal and filial..The spirit of promoting loyalty and filial piety and criticizing disloyalty and unfilial piety was discussed and promoted by Ngo Thi Nham throughout.Spring and Autumn Managementthrough many events and characters.

4.2.2. Distinguishing between meaning and benefit

InSpring and Autumn Management,Distinguishing between righteousness and profit is a topic that Ngo Thi Nham is interested in. He often puts righteousness and profit in the public-private framework to comment on specific cases. In it, Ngo Thi Nham does not focus on explaining what righteousness and profit are, but mainly promotes the idea of ​​valuing righteousness over profit, criticizing the practice of forgetting righteousness for profit, being greedy for fame, and abandoning public works for private purposes.

4.2.3. Methods and goals of personal cultivation and the relationship between will and spirit

Loyalty and filial piety are the most important requirements of a subject. So how can loyalty and filial piety be established? According to Ngo Thi Nham, the method is to cultivate Hao Nhien Qi. This is the Confucian method of cultivation to achieve loyalty and filial piety. He also reminded scholars that the purpose of the above mentioned cultivation is not only to help"self-discipline"but more broadly, to the point of"rule the country, establish the law", "eight rebellions and rebellions"when dealing with life of Confucian scholars. In the final part ofSelf-esteem,Ngo Thi Nham also discussed the relationship between will and spirit in self-cultivation to build loyalty and filial piety, control actions to be standard, and avoid mistakes.

4.2.4. Promoting women's virtues

“Phu duc”, meaning “women’s virtues”. “Phu duc” was discussed by Ngo Thi Nham around issues such as the three obediences, four virtues, chastity, obedience, loyalty... He praised virtuous women like Thuc Co of Lu and strongly criticized promiscuous women who did not keep their chastity like Van Khuong of Lu, Tuyen Khuong of Ve...

4.3. Political ideology

4.3.1. Legitimacy andDunified

          Spring and Autumnis a book about status and legitimacy, great unity is the spirit that pervades the entire content of this Sutra. InSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,Ngo Thi Nham continued to affirm, deepen and promote the significance of legitimacy and great unity for politics and society. According to him, there is a close relationship between legitimacy and great unity. Great unity is built on the basis of legitimacy.

4.3.2. The King of the North

“The King is superior to the Hegemon” means to exalt the King's way and despise the Hegemon's way. InSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablen,Ngo Thi Nham discussed many times the relationship between Kingship and Hegemony, analyzed the uses of Kingship, the harms of Hegemony, as well as the reasons why Kingship was revered and Hegemony was degraded, thereby affirming and promoting the spirit of "respecting the King and despising the Hegemony" and expressing his political views.

4.3.3. Solemn ceremony

Along with the spirit of promoting the King's way of governing with humanity and virtue, Ngo Thi Nham also promoted rituals and the role of rituals in politics. Ngo Thi Nham stated that, for the monarch, rituals are a tool to govern the country, a way to prevent usurpation and chaos. For the subjects, Ngo Thi Nham believed that rituals are a good way to lead the king to follow the path.

4.3.4. ArmyDTao and methods of governing the country

4.3.4.1 Cultivating virtue and encouraging discipline

By analyzing and criticizing a series of wrongdoings of monarchs inSpring and AutumnSuch as passion for material things, luxury, procrastination in state affairs, excessive travel, usurpation of authority, partial love, contempt for the people... Ngo Thi Nham gave lessons and admonitions to the monarch, to deeply warn future kings to know how to reflect on them to learn lessons, to help cultivate virtue, discipline the body and mind, and adjust their behavior.

4.3.4.2. Repair of public property

Ngo Thi Nham's thoughts on the monarchy's governance focused on three issues: 1. Respecting the succession and the firstborn son. 2. Respecting the husband-wife relationship, distinguishing between firstborn and secondborn. 3. Respecting other relationships (brothers, elders, youngers...) within the clan.

4.3.4.3. Governance

+)Dways and methods of governing the country

It can be saidSpring and Autumn Annalsunmarketablenis a book series containing Ngo Thi Nham's rich thoughts on the way and method of governing the country for monarchs that he entrusted to it. Issues such as promoting the King's way, governing the country with virtue, loyalty, humanity, ensuring legitimacy, obeying rituals, fearing the mandate of heaven, preserving the people, choosing and using talented people, staying away from evil, being cautious in war and punishment... were always mentioned by him through analysis and commentary. In addition, we can talk about some other views on Ngo Thi Nham's way and method of governing the country such as: Governing the country with humanity and promoting self-reliance; holding power; maintaining orthodoxy and morality; using talented people, staying away from petty people.

+) The relationship between king and subject and the way of rulingyesI

Regarding the relationship between king and subject, also according to the traditional concept of Confucianism, Ngo Thi Nham believed that the king and subject were one entity. The two sides were like form and shadow, inseparable and had mutual influence. In the way of treating subjects, Ngo Thi Nham also emphasized the issue of power and favor. Both of these issues must be maintained and used in the monarch's way of governing the country and treating subjects.

+) Consider people as the root

In the work, the idea of ​​"considering people as the root" is expressed in aspects such as respecting people, being close to people, protecting people, loving people, being lenient with people... Ngo Thi Nham believes that "considering people as the root" is the mind of the Saint, the principle ofSpring and Autumn.Therefore, Ngo Thi Nham's thought of "considering people as the root" inSpring and Autumn ManagementIt is also an inheritance and development of Confucius's thought in particular and Confucianism in general from the classics.

4.3.5. Divine principles and the principle of being a servant  

4.3.5.1. Maintain proper position, do not be arbitrary or rebellious.

Ngo Thi Nham gave examples to admonish disrespectful people, warning future subjects to be loyal to the king, keep their positions, and fulfill their duties. At the same time, he also reminded the monarch to know how to control his subjects from the beginning, and hold power in his hands to prevent disaster.

4.3.5.2. Cultivate virtue and fulfill one's duties

Ngo Thi Nham believed that a subject must know how to maintain a steadfast heart, cultivate character, and be loyal to the public. A subject must also know how to use loyalty to overcome difficulties, have intelligence and strategy to protect the country, and treat neighboring countries in harmony.

4.3.5.3. How to keep yourself

Many places inSpring and Autumn Management, Ngo Thi Nham gave ways for subjects to protect themselves such as: A subject serving the king must be humble, if not humble, it is easy to be destroyed. A subject must consider purity, integrity, and gentleness as precious, but if facing adversity in the officialdom, he must act appropriately, if he deliberately shows it in an excessive way, he will not be able to protect himself.

4.4. Military ideology

4.4.1. Criticism of unjust war

From Confucius, Mencius to the Confucian scholars of all ages, they all stood on the foundation of upholding the royal way, opposing the unjust wars of the Spring and Autumn period, which caused social chaos and people's suffering. Ngo Thi Nham also expressed that spirit when discussing the events of war inSpring and Autumn Management.

4.4.2. Military strategy

Regarding the way of using troops, Ngo Thi Nham believed that a country does not need to be large, if it is self-reliant then no one can overwhelm it. Soldiers do not need to be numerous, if they are clever in planning then no one can defeat them. The way of using troops must be cautious, careful, disciplined, not hasty, not reckless, and must be moderate, considering suitability. In the army, Ngo Thi Nham affirmed that generals and soldiers are both important and closely linked together. However, because ofSpring and AutumnBecause he considered the lives of the people of the country as the most important, Ngo Thi Nham always emphasized the need to choose a commander, because if the choice was not careful, disaster could come to the entire country.

CONCLUDE

1. The period of the late 18th century - early 19th century has always been considered a period of strong development of Vietnamese Classics, marking the birth of a series of Classics works in fields such as interpretation of meanings, summaries, summary, Nom interpretation... with large scale and magnitude, attracting many authors with different approaches and levels of interest. The achievements of Classics in this period far surpassed those of the previous and following periods. In particular, the field of interpretation of classic meanings can be considered to have achieved the most outstanding and outstanding achievements. The authors of Classics in this period clearly demonstrated academic interest, efforts to penetrate and realize the meaning of classics, overcome the barriers of learning from chapters and examinations, escape the constraints of the massive and authoritative system of legends and commentaries to proactively discuss, criticize and give their own opinions. AndSpring and Autumn Management- commentary workSpring and AutumnNgo Thi Nham's is a typical achievement of this trend. This work has the largest volume and is also a commentary work.Spring and Autumnunique among the extant Vietnamese Buddhist commentaries. Not only is it rich in volume,Spring and Autumn Managementstill rich in academic value. The birth of the work is a proof that Vietnamese Classics at that time had a remarkable development.

2.Spring and Autumn ManagementThere are currently 03 documents and all are kept at the Institute of Han Nom Studies with the symbols A.117, VHv.806, VHv.807. Although the number of different versions is not much, the capacity is large and the content is relatively complex. To solve this problem, in this thesis, we use methods and operations of textual research to describe in detail the appearance and characteristics of each text, select the base version, compare, contrast, and analyze the different versions, thereby making conjectures about the age and quality of each different version and finally proceed to choose the text VHv.807 as a reliable version to serve the research and translation work.

3.Spring and Autumn Managementwas born in the turbulent context of Vietnam in the second half of the 18th century. The reason for composing and the purpose of this work stemmed from the failure and stumble in the Le - Trinh political arena of Ngo Thi Nham, combined with the context of political, social, and academic decline, the failure in managing the country and society of Confucianism, ... which the author himself had to witness and experience. This period marked special events in the history of the country as well as the life of Ngo Thi Nham. It has similarities with the circumstances and purposes of Confucius's composition.Spring and Autumn.Perhaps that is why Ngo Thi Nham choseSpring and Autumnto interpret and deposit ideas, not another set of scriptures. This is also a characteristic of the history of the Confucian feudal regime in general and the history of Confucian Classics in particular. Whenever people want to start building a peaceful and unified world, they need toSpring and Autumn.And when life declines and religion fades, rituals and music decay, people also need it.Spring and Autumnwith the hope of restoring order and reputation. Motivation for writingSpring and Autumn ManagementNgo Thi Nham's work is not out of this issue. The spirit of worshiping Confucius and the value and meaning ofSpring and Autumnis the factor that governs the entire author's viewpoint, content, and ideas of the work. Ngo Thi Nham's original intention was to use the narrative activity to re-interpret the work.Spring and Autumnto realize and affirm the eternal truths contained in the scriptures of the Saints, in order to comprehend and cultivate himself. At the same time, he also hoped that this work could contribute to helping scholars cure the disease of "mentalism", have the right way to establish themselves, conduct themselves, and pursue politics. The purpose of "eight rebellions and counter-government", revive Daoism, restore Confucianism, and hope for a peaceful and unified world was conveyed by him in the content of the work. This is compatible with the purpose of the birth of other works of commentary on the Buddhist scriptures at the same time asAnalects, Classic of Poetry…

4. The use of the word "quan kien" in the title of the work implies humility in terms of education and personal perceptions ofSpring and Autumn. The form of "management" is similar toManagement, Annunciation, Shallow Commentary, Defeat, Brief Treatise, Phu Thuyet...in the history of Chinese and Vietnamese Classics, although the form and level of approach are different. However, the scope, content of research and discussion of Ngo Thi Nham in the work is not limited, it can even be said to be very profound. From the foundation of the meaning ofSpring and Autumnin particular and traditional Confucianism in general,Ngo Thi Nham expanded the connection to other issues such as characters, events, ceremonies, diplomacy, military wealth, orders of the times, disasters... of himself.Spring and Autumnas well as placing them in relation to the past. All of them were seriously and thoroughly researched and interpreted by him. Ngo Thi Nham's evaluation and expression of views are not beyond the scope of the "fine words and great meanings" of the saints contained in the scriptures.

5. InSpring and Autumn Management, Ngo Thi Nham has closely followed and kept the structure ofSpring and Autumn.In which, more than 1800 events of this sutra are fully cited. Considering the forms of adaptation in the history of adaptationSpring and Autumn, Spring and Autumn Managerincluding all forms such as commentary on the meaning of classics, commentary on calligraphy, examination of meaning, compilation of annotations... However, commentary on the meaning of classics is still the main tendency in the work. Ngo Thi Nham does not stick to the text, does not make annotationsSpring and Autumnin the style of chapters and verses, without division, restructuring, or classifying the content of the scriptures asIgnorance of the Analects,also does not summarize, discuss the essential points such asInterpretation of the Book of Songs.He completely obeyed the order ofSpring and Autumn,useThree storiesand the explanation of the Confucianists as the basis for tracing and seeking the meaning of the Saint's ideology.Three stories,he usesDescriptionthe most. His repeated criticismDescriptionMainly from the perspective of commentary on meaning, but on the issue of historical events, he mostly adheres to the content of theStory of the LakeAlthough rarely quoted, it is not that Ngo Thi Nham was not influenced byLake story.In the sectionManager,We can see scattered inheritance of Ngo Thi Nham to Ho Truyen such as some rules, time orders (以夏時冠周月 “using the season of the Xia Dynasty to put before the month of the Zhou Dynasty”), the concept of Hoa – Di… However, this issue still needs more time to research so we will present it on another occasion. In addition to usingThree storiesand based on the explanation of Tien Nho, Ngo Thi Nham also used other methods such as applying other Confucian classics to explain.Spring and Autumn,string together information to narrate and comment on events, usingSpring and AutumnHistorical reflection was also used by him to interpretSpring and Autumn.In the history of the interpretation of Confucian classics, these are traditional methods. However, under the precise and skillful application of Ngo Thi Nham, these methods have maximized their effectiveness and helped the subject of interpretation express his purpose and thoughts, as well as making the content of the work rich, lively, and rich in academic value.

6. Sources of materials used inSpring and Autumn Managementmainly classics and history. Regarding classics, first of all are the collections directly related toSpring and AutumnlikeZuo Zhuan, Gongyang Zhuan, Guliang Zhuan, Spring and Autumn Annals Zuo Zhuan's Justice(Du Yu's commentary, Kong Yingda's commentary),Spring and Autumn Complete(includeStorytelling, Storytellingand the commentary of Tien Nho), and then other Confucian classics. We do not see any appearance of works of Classical studies onSpring and Autumnof the Qing Dynasty, although the Spring and Autumn Annals of the Qing Dynasty were quite developed. Regarding history, we can mention works such asHistorical Records, Han Dynasty History, Song History, Ming History...Besides,Spring and autumn are prosperousDong Trong Thu's work is also often mentioned. It can be said that the amount of materials used in such a massive workSpring and Autumn ManagementSo that's not too much. However, in our opinion, the author's choice is selective and reflects his own intention. BecauseSpring and Autumnboth scripture and history, so when approachingSpring and Autumn,Ngo Thi Nham had to deal with both the classic and historical issues. Using the meaning of the classics to illuminate history and using history to prove the meaning of the classics was a major trend inSpring and Autumn Management.And in fact, Ngo Thi Nham has skillfully resolved the relationship between classics and history by continuously connecting many facts ofSpring and Autumnwith characters, events, dynasties... throughout Chinese history to comment and draw lessons on ethics, politics, and society. Therefore, he mainly chose to use classic and historical documents. At the same time, perhaps Ngo Thi Nham also wanted to use ancient literary documents, which, according to him, are truly reliable sources to trace and research information and ideological meanings. Reading the work, it can be seen that he has tried his best to exploit, compare, and search for connections between information and evidence in classics and history to carefully make his judgments.

7.Spring and Autumn Managementcontains many issues of Spring and Autumn Studies. As mentioned above, these issues are very broad and complex, so our thesis only focuses on the two most essential parts of Spring and Autumn Studies, which are "rules" and "great meaning". Other issues such as characters, events, diplomacy, rituals, disasters... are presented around those two parts. Regarding the issue of rules, through analyzing a number of cases of rulesSpring and Autumninterpreted, we can see that Ngo Thi Nham has both inheritance and transformation, development in the issue of "forms"Spring and Autumn,especially the system of "rules" ofThree stories.Characteristics of the formal approachSpring and AutumnNgo Thi Nham's approach has similarities with the tendency to approach the formalism of scholars of the late Qing Dynasty. Regarding the issue of great meaning, we have also presented the issue of great meaning.Spring and Autumnwas interpreted by Ngo Thi Nham through aspects such as defining status, respecting the King, ceding the Barbarians, and great unification. Basically, the spirit of great righteousnessSpring and Autumnwas fully inherited by Ngo Thi Nham. He did not offer a new understanding of this issue. However, Ngo Thi Nham had his own ways of interpreting the path to the common goal of great righteousness. That is, in some cases, he relied on his own interpretation of the rules or re-examined historical information in the classics, in history books... to string together, praise and criticize, re-evaluate events and characters, thereby expressing his ideological stance without deviating from the orbit of great righteousness.Spring and Autumn.That is the unique feature of Ngo Thi Nham. Approaching the issues of Spring and Autumn Studies with such a deep and wide scale, before and after Ngo Thi Nham, no one in Vietnamese Confucianism could do it. This shows that at this stage, Vietnamese Classics had developed to the academic level and created a strong academic trend.

8. From studying the Kinh learning activities of Ngo Thi Nham inSpring and Autumn Managementsuch as viewpoint, purpose of the narrative, method of interpretation, view on form and meaningSpring and Autumn, the thesis moves towards studying the Confucian thought of Ngo Thi Nham in the following aspects: Thought of human-heavenly induction, thought of ethics and cultivation, political thought, military thought. This represents a whole of Confucian thought, from the interaction and induction between heaven and human affecting ethics and cultivation, from ethics and cultivation manifesting politics and military. Of course, Ngo Thi Nham's Confucian thought is not only that, but here we only mention the issues present inSpring and Autumn Management.BySpring and Autumnclosely related to Confucian political scienceSpring and Autumn Managementdiscussed much about this aspect. Basically, it can be seen that Ngo Thi Nham's Confucianism inSpring and Autumn Managementdemonstrates the tendency to delve into the understanding and development of the Saint's thoughts, continuing to affirm the values ​​of "natural and earthly righteousness" in the classics, completely without criticism, denial, or intention to establish different, contradictory thoughts. Ngo Thi's Confucian thoughts inSpring and Autumn Managemententirely based on the foundation of traditional Confucian principles. This is the basic element for Ngo Thi Nham to express his views, interpretations and explanations. In particular, issues such as loyalty, filial piety, humanity, legitimacy, unity, respect for the king, illegitimate children, considering the people as the root... are discussed a lot by Ngo Thi Nham. These are probably the "secret words" that contain Ngo Thi Nham's self-justification and his desire for humanism and worldly morality. At the same time, they also show the need of the times that are yearning for stability and order.

9. While taking refuge from the Tam Phu Kieu Binh, Ngo Thi Nham's mood was very complicated. Sometimes he appeared depressed and desperate, but sometimes he appeared optimistic, waiting for a new opportunity to show his talent. He still considered following the wise, making achievements, and bringing honor to his parents as"the career of our Confucian scholars"(Recording of Hoc Ton Thi - Part 3 - Thuy Van Nhan Vinh). And finally, the matter of "seeing the opportunity wisely" and "following the times" is still placed above all by Ngo Thi Nham. According to him, the right way to act is not something a man should pay attention to. When the opportunity comes, he should help the world and fulfill his duty as a Confucian scholar. Standing at the crossroads of life, the academic and ideological issues discussed and expressed by Ngo Thi Nham areSpring and Autumn Management,It seemed to be to seek a direction for the future and prepare for a new opportunity to perform that he was waiting for. The spirit of "leaving the government" never cooled down in him. And this became a reality when he determined to abandon the traditional framework of loyalty to follow the Tay Son dynasty, following the spirit of responsibility of the "Saintly person".

10. Selection and researchSpring and Autumn ManagementThe thesis is a continuation and supplement to the trend of exploiting and researching the works of Vietnamese Confucian scholars. This is a trend of Confucian studies that has achieved many successes in recent years in Vietnam. It has directly contributed to the research of Classics, Vietnamese Confucianism and the thoughts of Ngo Thi Nham. At the same time, it also aims to serve the teaching and learning of Confucian classics at all levels of training in the Han Nom major at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU. However, because Spring and Autumn Studies is a difficult and quite new academic field for Vietnamese scholars, and in addition to the limitations of time and capacity, the thesis has not been able to thoroughly research the contents ofSpring and Autumn Management.Hopefully there will be future works that continue to delve into this work.

 

LIST OF THE AUTHOR'S SCIENTIFIC WORKS

RELATED TO THE THESIS

1. Le Phuong Duy (2017), “DetoxificationSpring and Autumn Palace Templeof Ngo Thi Nham",Han Nom Research in 2017(Proceedings of the national scientific conference with peer review), The Gioi Publishing House, Hanoi, pp. 357-369.

2. Le Phuong Duy (2018), “Hermeneutical Method of ScriptureSpring and Autumnby Ngo Thi Nham inSpring and Autumn Management”, Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (special issue of Scientific Conference for young cadres and postgraduate students)Vol. IV (3b), pp. 432-446.