References

• 《四庫全書總目提要·卷93 子部·儒家類三》

Source: ''Kunzhi Ji (困知記)'' 'Kunzhi Ji' is a two-volume work, along with a two-volume 'Xuji' (續記) and a one-volume 'Fulu' (附錄), authored by Luo Qinsun. Luo Qinsun, whose courtesy name was Yunsheng and who styled himself Zheng'an, was from Taihe. He was a jinshi (imperial scholar) of the Hongzhi era, specifically in the year Gui-Chou. He held the position of Nanjing Minister of Personnel and was posthumously honored with the title Wen Zhuang. His biography is recorded in the 'Ming History' under the 'Confucian Scholars' section. The 'Kunzhi Ji' was written in Luo Qinsun's later years. The first part, 'Kunzhi Ji', was completed in the year Jiajing Wu-Zi and consists of 156 chapters. The 'Xuji' was completed in Jiajing Xin-Mao, comprising 113 chapters. The 'Fulu' is a single volume that includes six letters discussing philosophical and scholarly matters. Luo Qinsun recounted that his intellectual journey began when he was an official in the capital, where he engaged in a conversation with an elderly monk about Buddhism. He casually responded with Zen phrases, believing the monk must have profound insights. This led him to ponder deeply throughout the night, eventually achieving a sudden enlightenment. Later, while serving in the Southern Capital, he studied the works of sages and scholars, gradually realizing the importance of practical and tangible knowledge. He understood that his insights were the result of the mind's inherent clarity and not the principles of nature. Through years of contemplation and practice, he developed a firm confidence in his understanding. Luo Qinsun's philosophy was characterized by a commitment to practical application and a strong critique of Wang Yangming's concept of "good knowledge" (良知). He engaged in a correspondence with Wang Yangming, challenging the "Late Decisive Views of Zhu Xi" and providing detailed historical evidence to refute Wang's chronological assertions. 'Kunzhi Ji' is noted for its clarity and practicality, offering significant benefits to subsequent scholars. His approach was rooted in gradual experience and reflection, which allowed him to critically analyze and understand the strengths and weaknesses of both Confucianism and Buddhism. High Panlong, a prominent scholar, praised Luo Qinsun for his clear and thorough refutation of Buddhist ideas, stating that no one had critiqued Buddhism with such clarity and comprehensiveness. This assessment underscores the depth and precision of Luo Qinsun's philosophical contributions. ==References== * 《四庫全書總目提要·卷93 子部·儒家類三》