A Hierarchical System of Shen(神)

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1006-3250.2001.02.002

Abstract：Hierarchically,“Shen(神)” in Neijing(内经) has threelevels;“Cosmos-Shen(天神)” and “Man-Shen(人神)” and “WuZang-Shen(五藏神)”.“Cosmos Shen(天神)”,which is the “Great Law” is the basis of creation,change,develpoment,extinction of all things in the universe including man.“Man-Shen” which represents “Shen(神)” at the mundane level is the “Basic Principle” of human life,speaking broadly and mental function in a narrow sense. “WuZang-Shen(五藏神)” is lower level than “Man-Shen”. “WuZang-Shen” constitutes “Man-Shen” and simultaneously controlled by “Man-Shen”,with the characteristics of self-independence. Nejing systemizes the new notion of “Shen” system;the relation of “Cosmos-Shen”,“Man-Shen” and “WuZang-Shen” system. In the view of traditional chinese medicine,it is often said that the close relationship between Man and Cosmos is deeply reflected on the notion of microcosm. Neijing not only connects this notion of Cosmos with WuZang,but also regards each Zang as another Cosmos. The hierarchical system of “Shen” in Neijing is one of the characteristics of the epistemology of Neijing. It recognizes Cosmos,Man and Zang as the Integrity;“Taiji-Integrity(太极体)”. “Cosmos-Shen”,“Man-Shen” and “WuZang-Shen” are the principles and rules of each “Taiji-Integrity” and they also exist as the Integrity by themselves,having mutual influences on each other.