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Continued...
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16
In the Book of Poetry, it is said, "The royal domain of a thousand
li is where the people rest."
17
In the Book of Poetry, it is said, "The twittering yellow bird rests
on a corner of the mound." The Master said, "When it rests, it knows
where to rest. Is it possible that a man should not be equal to this
bird?"
18
In the Book of Poetry, it is said, "Profound was King Wan. With
how bright and unceasing a feeling of reverence did he regard his
resting places!" As a sovereign, he rested in benevolence. As a
minister, he rested in reverence. As a son, he rested in filial piety.
As a father, he rested in kindness. In communication with his
subjects, he rested in good faith.
19
In the Book of Poetry, it is said, "Look at that winding course of
the Ch'i, with the green bamboos so luxuriant! Here is our elegant and
accomplished prince! As we cut and then file; as we chisel and then
grind: so has he cultivated himself. How grave is he and dignified!
How majestic and distinguished! Our elegant and accomplished prince
never can be forgotten." That expression-"As we cut and then file,"
the work of learning. "As we chisel and then grind," indicates that of
self-culture. "How grave is he and dignified!" indicates the feeling
of cautious reverence. "How commanding and distinguished! indicates an
awe-inspiring deportment. "Our elegant and accomplished prince never
can be forgotten," indicates how, when virtue is complete and
excellence extreme, the people cannot forget them.
20
In the Book of Poetry, it is said, "Ah! the former kings are not
forgotten." Future princes deem worthy what they deemed worthy, and
love what they loved. The common people delight in what delighted
them, and are benefited by their beneficial arrangements. It is on
this account that the former kings, after they have quitted the world,
are not forgotten.
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