The peril of great states of ten‑thousand chariots lies in overly powerful ministers; the peril of medium‑sized states of one‑thousand chariots lies in excessive trust in personal attendants. These are universal troubles for all rulers.
The difficulty of implementing law and statecraft exists not only in great states of ten‑thousand chariots but also in medium‑sized states of one‑thousand chariots.
Those who form cliques to deceive the ruler and twist words for private gain are invariably trusted by powerful magnates.Those who can claim military merit are elevated through official ranks and titles; those who cannot win false reputations are strengthened by external state influence.Thus those who delude the ruler and serve private factions gain…
When powerful magnates control key state affairs, both inner‑palace attendants and outer officials become their tools. Hence neighboring states will not cooperate unless relying on them, so enemy states speak for them. Government officials cannot advance unless submitting to them, so ministers serve them. Palace attendants cannot approach the ruler unless clinging to them,…
Men of wisdom and statecraft must possess far‑sighted vision and sharp insight. Without sharp insight, they cannot expose private scheming.Men capable of upholding law must be resolute, firm and upright. Without firm uprightness, they cannot correct treacherous conduct.
What means a small state lacking etiquette? In ancient times, Prince Chong Er of Jin went into exile and passed through Cao. The Lord of Cao stripped himself to secretly watch Chong Er bathing (for he was said to have fused ribs). Li Fuji (Xi Fuji) and Shu Zhan attended nearby.
What means over‑estimating one’s own strength internally? In ancient times, Qin attacked Yiyang of Han, putting Han in great danger. Gongzhong Peng (Gong Zhongpeng, or Gongzhong Chi) said to the Lord of Han: “Allied states cannot be relied on. Why not seek peace with Qin through Zhang Yi? Offer a famous city as tribute…
What means committing faults yet refusing loyal ministers’ advice? In ancient times, Duke Huan of Qi convened feudal lords many times, unified the realm, and became the leader of the Five Hegemons, assisted by Guan Zhong.