Mencius opposes Shenzi’s military expansion plan. Deploying untrained folk for war harms people. Ancient fiefdoms followed hundred-li rituals; seizing land through bloodshed violates benevolence. Ministers ought to guide rulers toward virtue, not conquest.
Mencius stresses reverence in social exchanges and accepts ritual-compliant gifts, yet rejects stolen loot from murderers. He distinguishes criminal robbers from exploitative lords, explaining Confucius took office for three pragmatic reasons to gradually promote the Dao before departing.
Zuo Zhuan is a prominent ancient Chinese historical text, traditionally attributed to Zuo Qiuming of the Spring and Autumn period. It is also known as Zuo’s Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals or The Spring and Autumn Annals of Zuo.
Han Feizi tells Qi demanded Lu’s sacred tripod, so Lu submitted a fake. When Qi called Yuezheng Zichun for verification, the official refused to lie, stressing his personal integrity mattered more than the ruler’s beloved treasure.
Han Feizi recounts Duke Huan sent a scout to watch rebellious Prince Jiu. The envoy spotted his unnatural forced smile and blank gaze, proving his plot. The duke pressured Lu to execute the prince, showing inner schemes reveal themselves via odd behaviors.
Han Feizi tells Wu Qi fled Lu after Ji Sun’s regicide, sensing early political danger.