「계사전」에 나타난 易과 太極의 관계에 대한 연구

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between The Change(易) and Taiji(太極) in 「Gyesajeon」 based on the theory of Li(理) and Qi(氣) established by Yulgok. At the time of the construction of 「Gyesajeon」, clear establishment of Li(理) and Qi(氣) was not preceded. Due to the development of Neo-Confucianism, the concept of Li(理) and Qi(氣) could be clearly established in Yulgok. Therefore, this study aims to establish a mixed concept of the predecessors based on the theory of Li(理) and Qi(氣) of Yulgok. The difference that can distinguish The Change(易) and Taiji(太極) is the presence or absence of God(神). Through this study, The Change(易) can be defined as ‘a state of existence, sharpness, and actionable qi(旣發未形有爲之氣)’, and Taiji(太極) can be defined as ‘a pre-existence state, sharpness, and actionless qi(未發無形無爲之氣)’. Mugeuk(無極) can now be defined as ‘no qi, no form, and no action(無氣無形無爲)’. Li(理) is not expressed in the state of Mugeuk(無極). Li(理) is already present as an absolute invariant, but there is no basis for appearance because there is nothing to mediate in the absence of Qi(氣). When Qi(氣) is in the state of Taiji(太極) where Qi(氣) is first generated, Li(理) is finally expressed. Therefore, Taiji(太極) is recognized as Li(理). However, Li(理) recognized at this time is not Li(理), but pure Qi(氣), which is closest to Li(理) and a pre-existence state(未發). This is because Li(理) is not a recognizable being.