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The Classic of Poetry
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The Classic of Poetry (also translates to Book of Songs, Book of Poetry) is China’s earliest existing anthology of poetry. Originally titled Shi (Poetry), it was canonized as a Confucian classic during the Han Dynasty, hence the title Classic of Poetry (Shijing). Compiled in the Spring and Autumn period and traditionally believed to have…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 13.3
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In ancient times, Wu Qi explained to King Dao of Chu the customs of Chu: “High ministers hold excessive power, and too many nobles hold fiefdoms. This pressures the ruler above and oppresses the people below, a path to poverty and military weakness. We should revoke noble titles and stipends after three generations of…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 13.2
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Pearls and jade are what rulers urgently desire. Although He Shi presented unpolished jade which was not yet refined and brought no harm to the ruler, he still had both feet cut off before the treasure was acknowledged. How difficult it is to judge a treasure!
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Han Feizi – Chapter 13.1
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He Shi, a man of Chu, found an unpolished jade stone in the Chu Mountains. He presented it to King Li of Chu. King Li ordered a jade craftsman to examine it, who said: “This is merely a stone.” The king thought He Shi was lying and cut off his left foot.
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Han Feizi – Chapter 12.6
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In ancient times, Mi Zixia was favored by Duke Ling of Wei. According to Wei’s law, anyone who secretly drove the ruler’s chariot would have his feet cut off.When Mi Zixia’s mother fell ill, someone secretly informed him at night. He falsely ordered the ruler’s chariot and drove out. Hearing this, Duke Ling praised…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 12.5
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In ancient times, Duke Wu of Zheng planned to attack Hu. He first married his daughter to the Lord of Hu to win his favor.He then asked his ministers: “I wish to launch a military campaign. Which state shall I attack?”Minister Guan Qisi replied: “Hu may be attacked.”Enraged, Duke Wu executed him, saying: “Hu…