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Zhenguan Zhengyao (Essentials of Governance from the Zhenguan Era) is a foundational Chinese political classic compiled during the Tang dynasty by the historian and statesman Wu Jing (670–749 CE). Completed around 708–710 CE, the work records the exemplary governance, dialogues, policies, and administrative philosophy of Emperor Taizong(r. 626–649) and his ministers during the famed…
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Mozi is the title of the foundational text of Mohism, serving as a comprehensive compilation of writings by Mo Di‘s disciples and later followers. According to the Yiwenzhi (Treatise on Literature) in the Book of Han (Hanshu) compiled by Ban Gu in the Eastern Han dynasty, the original text comprised 71 chapters; today, 53…
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Introduction: This article traces Liu Yu’s rise from a common soldier to the founder of the Liu Song Dynasty. He suppressed Sun En’s rebellion, defeated Huan Xuan, restored Eastern Jin, then launched successful northern campaigns. Eventually, he usurped the throne, ending Jin’s rule and establishing a new era of reform and stability in the…
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Confucius remarked that Duke Ling of Wei was “without the Way (Dao)” (i.e., an unprincipled ruler). Ji Kangzi asked, “If that’s the case, why hasn’t he lost his state?”Confucius replied, “Zhongshu Yu handles diplomatic guests, Zhu Tuo manages ancestral temple rituals, and Wangsun Jia oversees the military. With such capable ministers fulfilling their roles,…
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Gongshu Wenzi recommended his own retainer, Dafu Zhuan, to the ruler, and both were promoted together to serve as high ministers at court. When Confucius heard of this, he said, “He truly deserves the posthumous title ‘Wen’!”
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Zhonggong, serving as steward to the Ji family, asked Confucius about governance. The Master said, “Set an example for your officials, pardon minor faults, and promote the worthy and capable.”Zhonggong asked further, “How can I know who is worthy and capable so I can promote them?”The Master replied, “Promote those you know to be…