Before you start reading, click "Follow". This not only makes it easier for you to discuss and share later, but also enhances your reading experience. Thank you very much for your support!
Researchers at Keio University in Japan recently discovered in the collection of its library what is believed to be the oldest manuscript of Confucian teachings in Japan. This manuscript is believed to have been compiled by the Chinese scholar Huang Kan in the 6th century CE in the fifth volume of the Treatise on Semantic Looseness, probably brought to Japan by Chinese emissaries of the Sui or Tang dynasties, and transmitted to the noble families of the Fujiwara clan.
Although the manuscript has not been conclusively confirmed, its importance cannot be ignored. If certified, it will become a national treasure and have great historical and cultural value. The discovery represents a breakthrough for researchers to gain a deeper understanding of early Japanese history and the extent to which Chinese philosophy and religion influenced the country.
As an important part of traditional Chinese culture, Confucian teachings have been widely spread in East Asia and profoundly influenced social trends and moral principles. As one of the Confucian classics, the Analects emphasize self-cultivation and rule the country and peace, and embody the ideal state and attitude of doing things by recording the words and deeds of Confucius and his disciples.
Presumably, the fifth volume of the Annals on Semantic Neglect has been lost in China, which makes the discovery of this manuscript of special significance. It may be one of the important sources for Japanese people to learn Confucianism and its teachings at that time, providing an important reference for them to understand Confucius thought.
As a feudal aristocratic family, the Fujiwara clan held a pivotal position in Japanese history. It is said that the manuscript was passed down to the family and eventually preserved in the Keio University Library. If it can be confirmed that the manuscript is related to the fifth volume of Huangkan's compilation of "On Semantic Looseness", then it can be speculated that Fujiwara clan played a key role in the contact and transmission of Confucianism and Chinese culture.
Studying and certifying this manuscript will not only help us better understand the social, political, and cultural context of early Japan, but also further explore the depth of knowledge exchange and influence among countries in East Asia. Not only that, the fifth volume of On Semantic Neglect will also become a material for researchers to further explore the variation and development direction of Confucian teachings in the process of evolution.
In addition, it is particularly important to strengthen cooperation on the protection and identification of precious cultural relics on a global scale. The discovery and identification of long-lost manuscripts require expertise and technical support. Therefore, Keio University researchers need to work closely with international teams of experts to enhance information sharing and collaboration when conducting relevant research.
This discovery also reminds us that the preservation of cultural heritage in the digital age remains essential. Only by recording, organizing and passing on the history and wisdom contained in these precious artifacts can we better understand the past and carry this knowledge into the future.
Briefly, the fifth volume of the Treatise on Semantic Neglect, recently discovered by Keio University and possibly identified as Japan's oldest Confucian manuscript, is of great value. This manuscript not only provides insight into early Japanese history and the influence of Chinese philosophy and religion on the country, but also provides an opportunity to explore the evolution of knowledge exchange and influence among countries in East Asia. We should pay full attention to and strengthen global cooperation in the protection and identification of precious cultural relics, and ensure the effective preservation and transmission of these cultural heritage through digital and other means.
The descriptions and images in this article are taken from the Internet, and our purpose is to spread positive information and do not contain any objectionable content. If copyright or personal rights are involved, please contact us immediately, and we will quickly take measures to remove or modify it. If there is any doubt about the content, please inform us in time.