說苑, Volume 9-12   By: Xiang Liu (77? BC - 6? BC)

說苑, Volume 9-12 by Xiang Liu is a fascinating collection of ancient Chinese philosophical and historical texts that offer valuable insights into the mindset and values of the people of that era. The book covers a wide range of topics, including ethics, human nature, governance, and interpersonal relationships, all of which are still relevant in today's society.

I found the writing to be both eloquent and thought-provoking, with each passage offering a unique perspective on various aspects of life. The author's insights are profound and often challenge traditional beliefs, making readers reassess their own views on morality and leadership.

Overall, 說苑, Volume 9-12 is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient Chinese philosophy and history. The wisdom contained in these texts is timeless and will undoubtedly inspire readers to reflect on their own values and beliefs.

First Page:

易曰：“王臣蹇蹇，匪躬之故。”人臣之所以蹇蹇為難，而諫其君者 非為身也，將欲以匡君之過，矯君之失也。君有過失者，危亡之萌也；見 君之過失而不諫，是輕君之危亡也。夫輕君之危亡者，忠臣不忍為也。三 諫而不用則去，不去則身亡；身亡者，仁人之所不為也。是故諫有五：一 曰正諫，二曰降諫，三曰忠諫，四曰戇諫，五曰諷諫。孔子曰：“吾其從 諷諫乎。”夫不諫則危君，固諫則危身；与其危君、宁危身；危身而終不 用，則諫亦無功矣。智者度君權時，調其緩急而處其宜，上不敢危君，下 不以危身，故在國而國不危，在身而身不殆；昔陳靈公不听泄冶之諫而殺 之，曹羈三諫曹君不听而去，春秋序義雖俱賢而曹羈合禮。 齊景公游于海上而樂之，六月不歸，令左右曰：“敢有先言歸者致死 不赦。”顏鶻諫曰：“君樂治海上而六月不歸，彼儻有治國者，君且安得 樂此海也！”景公援戟將斫之，顏鶻哺麓叢唬骸熬剎豁揭玻課粽哞釕憊亓 輳叉蓖踝穎雀桑簿聰頭譴碩也，臣之材，亦非此二子也，君奚不斫？以臣 參此二人者，不亦可乎？”景公說，遂歸，中道聞國人謀不內矣。 ... Continue reading book >>