On the relationship of Ming (名) and Law (法) in Yinwenzi

Author:Zhang Jing (張璟)

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The theory of Ming in Yin Wenzi has always attracted the attention of scholars, and the phenomenon of juxtaposing Ming with Law (fa) has inspired new possibilities for the study of Ming theory. The new inquiry is begins by clarifying the “relationship” between Ming and Law, specifically the question of how they illuminate each other. Yinwenzi distinguishes Ming from Xing, and emphasizes the function of Ming to the shape the humanistic reality. This explains how the determination by Ming and the norms established by Law are two sides of the same coin. I then reconstruct the Ming-Law relationship as follows. Firstly, Ming of Kuangwei includes both the attributes of the thing itself and the subject’s behavior, which establishes the relationship between Ming and Law in the sense of “behavior”. Secondly, “Ming-Fen” and the Law of Qisu are linked together. “Ming-Fen” focuses on the settlement of people’s conditions. With “profit, desire and Mingfen” as the center, Law is established on the Ming-Fen. Thirdly, “Ming-Cheng” and the unchangeable Law and Law of ruling people are linked together. It emphasizes the emperor’s judgment and decision. With “profession and Mingwei” as the center, Mingwei is regarded as a necessary condition and effective guarantee for legislation and to implement the operation of the Law.

Keywords: law、Ming、Yinwenzi