When industry is rewarded and idleness punished, the people
are not lax. When judgments are impartial and uniformly perspicacious,[2]
the empire submits. After that official duties[3]
are made
clear, occupations are examined, and abilities compared: there
are none that are not controlled,[4]
so that the Public Way is current
and selfish authority is impeded, public duties (i) are established
and selfish affairs inhibited. In this way, while those possessing
good qualities are brought forward,
[5]
flatterers and sycophants are
stopped; while the avaricious and the wicked withdraw, the
scrupulous and the moderate rise up.
The Regulations of Chou
read,
[6]
"When they anticipate the time, let them be put to death
without mercy; when they are behind the time, let them be put
to death without mercy."
[7]
In practicing affairs, men are confined
to human occupations (?), just as ear, eye, nose, and mouth may
not be mutually interchanged.
[8]
Hence it is said, "Duties being
apportioned, the people are not remiss; precedence being establised,
ranks are not confused; judgments being impartial, perspicacity
is uniform, and the various affairs are not hindered." Under
these circumstances, of inferiors and petty officials, none but
practice self-improvement; only thereafter do they dare rest secure
in office, and only after they have perfected their abilities do they
dare receive employment. Mean men reform their hearts, and the
people reform their customs. Of such as rebels and traitors, none
but return to a state of honesty. The perfection of such government
and of such teaching cannot be added to.
The Ode says,[9]
With great counsels and determinate orders,
With far-reaching plans[10]
and timely announcements,
And with reverent care of his outward demeanor,
One will become the pattern of the people.[11]
