[or Chu Hi, Chu He]. Chinese philosopher and statesman who flourished during the Sung dynasty in the twelfth century. Born A.D. 1130, at Hihchau, in the province of Nganwui, he early became a studious and precocious child, and was an ardent reader of Confucius. When about twenty-four years old he became a submagistrate, and from that time exhibited such qualities of forethought, careful observation, diligence, and integrity that his suggestions as to the needs of the empire and the welfare of the people were not only received with favor by the emperor, but, on important occasions of famine or pestilence, were asked, and he became a confidential adviser of the government. His public life was marked by industry, force of character and moderation. His name signifies “brilliant vermilion,” and was bestowed in childhood as being characteristic of great talents; but upon his marriage he adopted the name Yuen Hwui, “original obscurity.” His writings were very numerous, and some of them remain in use to this day. He was the best interpreter of the Chinese classics, and a constant inculcator of moral philosophic teachings. Outlines of General History; Memoirs of Illustrious Ministers; Domestic Ritual, or Rules for the Use of Families; Commentaries on the Dialogues of Confucius; Treatise on the Duties of Children; Commentary on the Diagrams of the Great Extreme; and Youth’s Guide for Studying the Book of Changes, are the titles of some of his works. He died A.D. 1200.
