Development of Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucian System

Timeline

1. 1161–1163Wuyi Mountain · FujianAfter completing his mother's mourning period, Zhu Xi returned to northern Fujian, taking disciples and teaching around Wuyi Mountain, beginning to systematically compile the Cheng brothers' writings and undertake preliminary research for his commentaries on the Four Books.
2. 1167–1168Changsha · ChangshaZhu Xi traveled to Hunan to lecture with Zhang Shi at Yuelu Academy, debating issues such as the Supreme Ultimate and equilibrium and harmony. This exchange prompted Zhu Xi to further clarify the relationship between principle and qi and the methods of self-cultivation, bringing his Neo-Confucian system toward maturity.
3. 1168–1170Jianyang · JianyangZhu Xi continued writing the Collected Commentaries on the Sentences and Paragraphs of the Four Books and related works in Jianyang, using the duality of principle and qi and the investigation of things to structure his interpretation of the classics; his disciples grew in number and Fujian learning's influence spread ever wider.