What are the san-kung? They are the ssŭ-k`ung, the ssŭ-ma,[2]
and the ssŭ-t`u. The ssŭ-ma is in charge of heaven; the ssŭ-k`ung
is in charge of earth;[3]
the ssŭ-t`u is in charge of man. So when
yin and yang are not adjusted, when [the weather of] the four
seasons is not seasonable, when stars and constellations miss their
courses, and calamaties are out of the ordinary, the responsibility
devolves upon the ssŭ-ma. When mountains and hills fall and
collapse, when rivers and streams do not flow, when the five cereals
do not grow, and plants do not thrive, the responsibility devolves
upon the ssŭ-k`ung. When ruler and subjects are not in their
correct places, when the Way of Man is not harmonious, when in
the state thieves and rebels are numerous, and inferiors resent
their superiors, the responsibility devolves upon the ssŭ-t`u. The
san-kung take carge of their offices, [each] anxious about his own
duties, each offering his suggestions, and each clarifying what is
obscure[4]
[in his task]: such are the duties of the san-kung.
The Ode says,[5]
Numerous is the array of officers,
And by them King Wên enjoys his repose.
Another says,[6]
Brilliant and illustrious is the House of Chou.
He has regulated the positions of those in office.
It speaks of each fitting his office.
