The Governing Principles of Ancient China

Editor’s based on note: 360 This passages is an extract excerpted from from The the Governing original Principles compilation of titled Ancient Qunshu China, Zhiyao, or The Compilation of Books and Writings on Important Governing Principles. Commissioned by Emperor Tang Taizong of the Tang Dynasty in the seventh century, the book contains advice, methods and historical notes on the successes and failures of the imperial governments of China. Today it continues to be relevant as a source of inspiration for self-improvement, family management and interpersonal relations. There are three levels of filial piety in action: A minor filial piety that takes the form of physical labor; an intermediate filial piety that applies meritorious deeds; a greater filial piety that holds back nothing. When I remember the love my parents gave me and the sacrifices they had to make in bringing me up, I am able to forget my own physical fatigue when I make ends meet to serve them. Such is the minor filial piety that takes the form of physical labor. When I revere benevolent virtues and enable society to abide contentedly in righteousness, such is the intermediate filial piety that applies meritorious deeds. Propagating moral and ethical teachings across the lands, dispensing benefits, and providing for all things necessary to enable every person to support their parents and prepare adequate offerings to their ancestors, such is the greater filial piety that holds back nothing. If my parents love me I will rejoice and never forget their kindness. If they dislike me I will be even more vigilant against any wrongdoings that I may commit and bear no resentment against my parents. If they commit a mistake I will persuade them to change but I will not rebel against them. When my parents pass away, I will pay my respects to them with food I obtained with legitimate means. Such is the complete fulfillment of propriety. Scroll 7: