Learn from the Past
276. To go any higher we must first stand on higher grounds or on a hilltop. To dig any deeper we must commence from low-lying streams or marshes. Can a ruler be pronounced competent if he does not govern according to the ways of former wise kings? Therefore, only the benevolent should occupy high positions. A man lacking in benevolence who occupies a high position will only influence the people through his wicked ways.
Scroll 37: Meng Zi
277. The ancients honored Emperor Yao as a virtuous ruler. When Yao was the emperor he did not adorn himself with gold, silver, pearls, and jade. He did not wear brocaded, embroidered, or florid costumes. He did not admire rare and exotic items. He took no interest in collecting treasured wares that were pleasing to the eyes. He did not listen to licentious music, nor did he build lavish enclosing walls and chambers. He did not crop the reeds that grew on the roof of his thatched hut. He did not replace clothes or shoes that were not worn out. He would not eat if too many dishes were served to him. He did not interfere with the agricultural production by taking farm labors away to work on state projects. Yao was unselfish, moderate, and administered with a policy of non-interference. He lived by little and collected very few taxes. Hence, all the people were rich and happy and none was poor and starving. The people revered their ruler like they would worship the sun and the moon, and looked upon him as if he were their parent.
Scroll 31: Liu Tao
278. The objective of incorporating the five virtues (benevolence, righteousness, courage, wisdom and trustworthiness) into the education system was to enable them to serve as the ethical standards of people’s behavior. This has been a customary practice since ancient times.
Scroll 33: Si Ma Fa