Book XV.
*43. Chap. I. Pien-tung [OMITTED] (Phenomenal Changes).
Heaven influences things, but is not affected by them. All
creatures being filled with the heavenly fluid, Heaven is the master,
and not the servant. The Yang and the Yin move things, but are
not moved. The deeds and the prayers of a tiny creature like
man cannot impress the mighty fluid of Heaven, and the sobs of
thousands of people cannot touch it. Heaven is too far, and its
fluid shapeless without beginning or end. It never sets the laws
of nature aside for man's sake.
44. Chap. II. Chao-chih [OMITTED].
(This chapter has been lost.)
45. Chap. III. Ming-yü [OMITTED].
The rain sacrifice, which during the Ch`un-ch`iu period was
performed at times of drought, forms the subject of this essay.
People use to pray for rain and happiness, as they implore the
spirits to avert sickness and other evils. Some believe that rain
is caused by the stars, others that it depends on the government
of a State, others again that it comes from the mountains. The
last opinion is shared by Wang Ch`ung.
46. Chap. IV. Shun-ku [OMITTED].
The chapter treats of the religious ceremonies performed to
avert inundations, in which the beating of drums is very important.
