Rethinking the Concept of Mindfulness: A Neo-Confucian Approach

Abstract

This article expounds on a neo-Confucian approach to mindfulness by drawing upon the writings of Zhu Xi. I argue that Zhu Xi's notion of mindfulness is encapsulated in the concept of ‘jing’ that refers to the single-minded and reverential attention to self-cultivation through ‘gewu’ (investigation of things). The desired outcome of mindfulness is the attainment of perfect goodness where one responds with sagely ease to affairs in everyday life. In contrast to the dominant focus on the self, present-state awareness and non-evaluation in Chan Buddhism, Zhu Xi's construal of mindfulness stresses interdependent relationships, social contribution and ethical purpose. Such a conception motivates learners to seek continuous self-improvement and focused engagement with others. A major critique of Zhu Xi's formulation of mindfulness is that it entails a whole-school approach and lifelong pursuit which are difficult to achieve in contemporary schooling conditions.