A Chinese Biographical Dictionary/Ch'ên Shun

by Herbert A. Giles

247

Ch'ên Shun 陳淳 (T. 安卿). A.D. 1151-1216. A native of 龍溪 Lung-ch'i in Fuhkien, who was attracted to the study of philosophy by reading the 近思錄 of Chu Hsi, and when the latter was appointed Governor of 漳 Chang-chou, received instruction from him as a disciple. He remained an ardent student for the rest of his life; and although he never actually held office, he was greatly esteemed by all the local officials. In 1216 he received a small appointment, but died before he could proceed. He is said to have been the first to use the term 性理 in the sense of philosophical speculation.