Epistemological foundation of traditional Chinese medicine′s form-qi-spirit life concept

The form-qi-spirit life concept is the foundation of the theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Ontologically, it defines the essential life substances that constitute the "human being," exerting a profound influence on TCM health preservation and clinical practice. This study uses an integrated philological and phenomenological methodology grounded in classical texts such as the Inner Canon of Huangdi and Classic of Questioning. It systematically examines the epistemological basis of these core concepts. Form is apprehended through measurement, palpation, and dissection from the perspective of subject-object separation, and introspective realization from the perspective of subject-object unification. Qi is conceptualized through physicians′ observations and abstractions of natural phenomena, as well as a profound examination of physiological and pathological manifestations. Spirit emerges from physicians′ awareness and analysis of conscious activities amid the deconstruction of early deity worship. Form, qi, and spirit constitute the organic whole of human life, interconnected and mutually influential. This paper has stage-by-stage clarified the fundamental issue of "how to understand the form-qi-spirit life concept came into being." It contributes to consolidating the philosophical foundation of TCM theory and may provide a reference for related research.