• The Journal of Korean Philosophical History
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• no.27
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• pp.145-166
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• 2009

This paper analyzes the views of Gyeongjae O Chiik on Classical Studies. O is the second son of Noju O Heesang (1763-1833). The characteristics of his views are as follows. First, unlike his father, Gyeongjae is more interested in Chinese Textual Criticism than in Hsing-li hsüeh. Therefore, he provides textual interpretation in detail with erudition in his Manrok and Munjip on the formation and problems for such classics as The Four Classics, The Classic of Poetry, The Book of Changes, The Rites of Zhou, The Book of Rites, and The Spring and Autumn Annals. Second, his openness. He didn't canonize The Book of Changes. Also, he thought that the analysis of Jeongja in his Annotation on the Book of Changes and Zhuxi's Original Interpretations, the absolute authority of the time, were not the only interpretation possible. He argued that other interpretation is possible depending on perspectives and it is desirable. We can see that Gyeongjae had transcended the world view of Zhuxi Studies. Third. he put the emphasis on the theories during the Han dynasty. He showed the inclination toward the Yuheung theories rather than Zhuxi theories in regard of the discussion of names in The Analects of Confucius. Fourth, unlike other Confucius scholars in Chosun, he showed interests in Gongyangjeon and Gokryangjeon. He compiled Gonggokmunseon with beautiful writings from both works. Fifth, he was interested in the dynamics of constant numbers. He grasped that what is important in the Book of Changes is not right principles but constant numbers and points. Thus he compiled Sangjeomyuhoe. Besides, he was also interested in the Rites of Zhou.