說苑, Volume 13-16   By: Xiang Liu (77? BC - 6? BC)

說苑, Volume 13-16 by Xiang Liu is a rich collection of ancient Chinese wisdom and anecdotes that provide valuable insights into human nature, relationships, and moral values. The author skillfully weaves together fables, historical accounts, and philosophical reflections to craft a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The book is divided into four volumes, each exploring different themes such as leadership, friendship, virtue, and governance. One of the standout features of the book is the use of parables and allegories to convey profound truths in a simple and accessible manner. Readers will find themselves reflecting on their own behavior and choices as they navigate the complex world of human interactions.

Xiang Liu's writing style is elegant and eloquent, making it a pleasure to read and easy to follow. The stories are engaging and the lessons imparted are timeless, making this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking wisdom and guidance in their own lives.

Overall, 說苑, Volume 13-16 is a treasure trove of ancient Chinese wisdom that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers. Whether you are a student of Chinese history and culture or simply enjoy a good story with a moral lesson, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended.

First Page:

圣王之舉事，必先諦之于謀慮，而后考之于蓍龜。白屋之士，皆關其 謀；芻蕘之役，咸盡其心。故万舉而無遺籌失策。傳曰：“眾人之智，可 以測天，兼听獨斷，惟在一人。”此大謀之術也。謀有二端：上謀知命， 其次知事。知命者預見存亡禍福之原，早知盛衰廢興之始，防事之未萌， 避難于無形，若此人者，居亂世則不害于其身，在乎太平之世則必得天下 之權；彼知事者亦尚矣，見事而知得失成敗之分，而究其所終极，故無敗 業廢功。孔子曰：“可与适道，未可与權也。”夫非知命知事者，孰能得 權謀之術。夫權謀有正有邪；君子之權謀正，小人之權謀邪。夫正者，其 權謀公，故其為百姓盡心也誠；彼邪者，好私尚利，故其為百姓也詐。夫 詐則亂，誠則平，是故堯之九臣誠而興于朝，其四臣詐而誅于野。誠者隆 至后世；詐者當身而滅。知命知事而能于權謀者，必察誠詐之原而以處身 焉，則是亦權謀之術也。夫知者舉事也，滿則慮溢，平則慮險，安則慮危 ，曲則慮直。由重其豫，惟恐不及，是以百舉而不陷也。 楊子曰：“事之可以之貧，可以之富者，其傷行者也；事之可以之生 ，可以之死者，其傷勇者也。”仆子曰：“楊子智而不知命，故其知多疑 ，語曰：‘知命者不惑。’晏嬰是也。” ... Continue reading book >>