The philosophy of jing (“reverence”) took concrete form under the Cheng brothers (Cheng Hao, also called Cheng Mingdao, 1032-1085, and Cheng Yi,
also called Cheng Yichuan, 1033-1107) and was later inherited and further developed by Zhu Xi, marking a subtle yet significant transformation. By
comparing Zhu Xi’s thought with that of the Cheng brothers, this study traces the theoretical construction and evolving trajectory of jing. It examines jing in relation to cheng (sincerity), jingshen kongju (vigilance), and the dynamic interplay between stillness and activity. Through this analysis, the paper demonstrates both Zhu Xi’s continuation and expansion of the Chengs’ conception of jing, and highlights his systematic integration of jing with the notions of perception and mind. Such inquiry contributes to the intellectual history of Neo-Confucianism and deepens our understanding of Zhu Xi’s philosophy.
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