SuaveG – The Gentle Path – Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

Han Feizi – Chapter 21.12

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Juan

Han Fei tells how Jizi (Ji Zi) foresaw King Zhou’s ruin from ivory chopsticks – small luxuries lead to tyranny and fall.

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Juan

Han Feizi uses two stories: ignoring early warnings led to Zheng’s defeat and Yu’s fall. Address threats early to survive.

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Juan

Han Feizi teaches: great crises start small. Tackle issues early – like Bian Que’s warnings – to avoid disaster.

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Juan

Han Fei explains Daoist paradoxical strategy: expand to shrink, give to take. Weakness and hidden plans defeat the strong.

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Juan

Han Fei states rulers must hold all power. Losing authority lets ministers usurp control, bringing ruin to the state.

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Juan

Han Fei warns rulers: hold power firmly. King Wuling’s abdication led to ruin – lightness loses ministers, restlessness loses kingship.