李栗谷의 “矯氣質” 修養論 特征에 대한 고찰

Abstract

This study focuses on characteristics of Gyogijil (one’s mind and body training for a correct disposition) of Yulgok’s Suyang theory (cultivation theory) with both a key concept of changing one’s temperament, and methods of changing temperament, “geuggi (self-control)”, “silgong (tangible outcome)”. Yulgok suggests to set an aim in life and transform a disposition as per the aim, based on the possibility of personality change. According his theory, aspiring to growing to either a saint or sage, one would be able to change his/her disposition appropriate for the saint or sage. Yulgok’s Suyang theory advises people to become united with heavenly principles through changing their temperament. It corresponds to a chi theory rooted in Yulgok’s perspectives, not to the Suyang theory of “bokgi (returning to human nature)” by Confucianist’ of the day. Yulgok concedes that a means of practicing gyogijil can vary from person’s disposition to person’s. However, referring to jungjeong (impartiality) and bias, he emphatically asserts gueggi and “myeongang(obligingness)” of silgong for changing one’s temperament. In other words, it is implied that the man attains “jungdo (moderation)” by means of “gueggi” and “silgong”, rectifying one’s slant temperament.