"貞觀政要" by Jing Wu provides an in-depth look into the governance of the Tang Dynasty, highlighting the key policies and strategies implemented during the reign of Emperor Taizong. The book delves into the various aspects of governance, from military expansion to economic reforms, demonstrating how these policies contributed to the unprecedented prosperity of the empire during this period.
Wu's thorough research and detailed analysis shed light on the inner workings of the Tang government, offering valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by the ruling regime. The author's engaging writing style makes the complex political landscape of ancient China accessible to readers, making this book a compelling read for history enthusiasts.
Overall, "貞觀政要" is a valuable resource for those interested in the governance of the Tang Dynasty and the broader history of China. Wu's meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive coverage of the subject make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in Chinese history.
First Page:
貞觀政要 吳競撰 君道第一
貞觀初，太宗謂侍臣曰：「為君之道，必須先存百姓。若損百姓以奉其身，猶割股 以啖腹，腹飽而身斃。若安天下，必須先正其身，未有身正而影曲，上治而下亂者。朕 每思傷其身者不在外物，皆由嗜欲以成其禍。若耽嗜滋味，玩悅聲色，所欲既多，所損 亦大，既妨政事，又擾生民。且復出一非理之言，萬姓為之解體，怨讟既作，離叛亦興 。朕每思此，不敢縱逸。」諫議大夫魏徵對曰：「古者聖哲之主，皆亦近取諸身，故能 遠體諸物。昔楚聘詹何，問其治國之要，詹何對以修身之術。楚王又問治國何如，詹何 曰：『未聞身治而國亂者。』陛下所明，實同古義。」
貞觀二年，太宗問魏徵曰：「何謂為明君暗君？」征曰：「君之所以明者，兼聽也 ；其所以暗者，偏信也。《詩》云：『先民有言，詢於芻蕘。』昔唐、虞之理，辟四門 ，明四目，達四聰。是以聖無不照，故共、鯀之徒，不能塞也；靖言庸回，不能惑也。 秦二世則隱藏其身，捐隔疏賤而偏信趙高，及天下潰叛，不得聞也。梁武帝偏信朱異， 而侯景舉兵向闕，竟不得知也。隋煬帝偏信虞世基，而諸賊攻城剽邑，亦不得知也。是 故人君兼聽納下，則貴臣不得壅蔽，而下情必得上通也。」太宗甚善其言。
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