In ancient times, since [rulers] had the people meant for them
by their mandate,[2]
the people were capable[3]
of respect for the
aged and pity for the orphan, and in transactions loved to yield.
Only after they had received the command from their ruler, did
those who were assiduous in service[4]
(?) get[5]
to ride in elaborate
carriages with paired horses. Those who had not received his
command did not get to ride, and if they did ride,[6]
they were in
every case punished. Thus, even if people had excess property
and luxury goods, if they had not li and i, merit and virtue, there
was no way they could make use [of these things].[7]
So it was that
always they made jên and i flourish, but despised property and
gain. Despising property and gain, they did not compete. Since
they did not compete, the strong did not oppress the weak, nor
were the many harsh to the few. This is how T`ang (= Yao) and
Yü (= Shun)[8]
gave form to[9]
regulations and punishments, and
none of the people went against the laws. When the people did
not go against the laws, disorder first came to an end.
The Ode says,[10]
Make assurances of good faith to your people;[11]
Observe carefully the measures of your feudal princes,[12]
And so prepare against the unforseen.