『열자(列子)』에 나타난 ‘우주생성론’과 ‘수양론’의 관계에 대한 고찰

Abstract

This study investigates the analogous relationship between the ‘cosmogony’ and ‘cultivation theory’ in the Liezi. The Liezi’s view of nature as well as its connection to men can be illuminated as we comprehend the correlations between them. Discovering the common ground between the cosmogony and the cultivation theory in the Liezi will lead to a deeper understanding on how the intellectuals of the time viewed the relationship between the cosmos and nature, cultivation and practice, as well as nature and men. Moreover, it will elucidate the implications of ‘dao (道)’ which is regarded as the culmination of both cultivation and achievement of the skills in the Liezi. The cosmogonies of the Han dynasty that tend to suggest systematic processes of evolvement can be interpreted in various ways. For example, one may focus on the qi’s movements and changes while others may explore the concept of ultimate reality. On the other hand, the cosmogonic contexts found in the Liezi should be understood in consideration of the purposes and ideological directions of the text. The cultivation theory aiming for the dao and the practical wisdom for living are the essential parts of the Liezi. The cosmogony of the Liezi, therefore, may acquire its meaning and value provided that it can serve for cultivation purposes. In the Liezi an analogous relationship can be not only between cosmogony and cultivation theory but also between the process of cultivation and training of skills. Perspectives on nature, cultivation and living are interconnected through the concept of dao in the Liezi.