SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

rule of law

  • The Shadow of Envy: When Talent Threatens Power

    •

    Rob

    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 Feizi – Chapter 19.4

    •

    Juan

    This Han Feizi passage argues strict law strengthens states, while weak law leads to decline. Law, like a mirror, must be impartial, above personal wit.

  • Unbending Justice and the Virtues of Restraint: The Legacy of Emperor Guangwu [Eastern Han]

    •

    Juan

    This article honors Emperor Guangwu’s legacy of justice and restraint. After unifying Eastern Han, he disbanded armies, upheld the law fearlessly – praising officials like the “Iron-Necked Magistrate” who dared defy nobles – and handled royal succession with wisdom. His rule brought peace and renewal, shaping the dynasty’s early prosperity.

  • Han Fei

    •

    Rob

    Han Fei (c. 280–233 BCE), often revered as Han Feizi or Master Han Fei, stands as one of ancient China’s most influential philosophers and political theorists. Emerging during the tumultuous Warring States Period (475–221 BCE), he hailed from Xinzheng, the capital of the state of Han (in modern-day Henan Province). As a royal descendant…

  • The Rise and Fall of Confucius’ political career [Spring & Autumn]

    •

    Rob

    This article details the brief political zenith and subsequent exile of Confucius. It recounts how, between 501–497 BCE, he rose to become acting Prime Minister of Lu, implementing a unique blend of ritual propriety and rule of law that transformed the state into a near-utopia. However, fearing Lu’s revival, the rival state of Qi…

  • The Analects – Chapter 76 (4.11). Noble person vs. Petty person

    •

    Juan

    4.11 The Master (Confucius) said, “Where gentlemen set their hearts upon virtue, the commoners set theirs upon the soil. Where gentlemen think only of punishments, the commoners think only of exemptions.”