Hong Kong Central Library | Hok Hoilectures on Chinese Wisdom and Life Pursuits：What is "Li" (Ritual)?

Description

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) and the Hok Hoi Library, the “Hok Hoi Lectures on Chinese Wisdom and Life Pursuits” will invite scholars to deliver lectures on cultural insights from Chinese literary classics in simple language, with a view to enhancing public understanding of Chinese culture. Teachers, students and other members of the public are welcome to join us to pass on the heritage of Chinese culture.

Lecture Overview

China has long been known as the 'Land of Rites and Etiquette', and 'Li' (rites) has been the core value upholding social order and interpersonal harmony for thousands of years. However, in today's rapidly changing society, what are the specific cultural connotations of traditional concepts like 'Li', 'rites', and even 'propriety'? Are they merely outdated norms, or are they still intimately connected to our modern daily lives?

 
This lecture will delve into these questions, starting with the etymology and core significance of 'Li'. It will explore various facets of 'Li' in Chinese culture, including rites of passage that accompany birth, aging, sickness, and death; dining etiquette reflecting social ethics; 'Xiang She Li' rituals for cultivating the mind and observing virtues; mourning and sacrificial ceremonies for honoring the deceased; as well as important rites observed by the state and the common people. Join us to rediscover the richness of 'Li' in Chinese culture and its relevance in modern times.

Speaker:Dr. LEE Lok-man

Remarks:

• The lecture will be conducted in Cantonese. Admission is free. Interested parties may reserve seats via this webpage from 9:00 a.m., 18.6.2026 (Thursday) onwards. Limited seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

• Participants should be seated 15 minutes before the lecture commences.

• Lecture quota and admission arrangements will be updated from time to time. Please note the latest announcements made by the HKPL and follow the instructions of venue staff.

• The lecture may be recorded in video and/or audio format for review.

• If Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above or a Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or "extreme conditions" announced by the Government is in force 3 hours before the lecture commences, the lecture will be cancelled.