In the long river of history, it is not an isolated incident for wise and talented individuals to fall victim to jealousy. The stories of Ziyu and Confucius, and Li Si and Han Fei, serve as two poignant examples of this tragic dynamic.
Han Fei tells how Ziyu’s jealousy stopped Confucius from being recommended. Fear of being overshadowed suppresses talent.
Gan Mao chose a minor royal attendant post. A seemingly humble position that brings him more opportunities and power than a formal high post.
Han Fei tells King Tang yielded the throne to Wu Guang to hide greed, yet tricked him into suicide. Virtuous acts can be political stratagems.
Han Fei tells King Wen gave a jade tablet to Shang’s corrupt Fei Zhong, not the virtuous Jiao Ge, to weaken Shang. True wisdom is subtle statecraft.
Han Fei tells Zixia’s story: inner struggle between virtue and wealth. True strength lies in conquering oneself.
Han Feizi tells King Zhuang planned to attack Yue. Du Zi warned: see your own flaws first. Self-awareness is true wisdom.
Han Feizi tells King Zhuang of Chu’s story: three years of silence, then decisive rule. Great achievements need patience and preparation.
Han Fei uses two tales: fixating on rivals scatters focus. True wisdom lies in inner harmony and adapting to circumstances.