Song Dynasty manuscript Hong Fan Zheng Jian

Author: Yin Mengxia
Responsibility: Compilation
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 1992-09-01
Features: This book extensively incorporates the complex "Unity of Heaven and Man" philosophy from Confucian and Taoist traditions. It categorizes them based on the Five Elements, lists numerous "auspicious and inauspicious signs" from the Spring and Autumn period to various dynasties, and correlates these natural phenomena with the actions of emperors, the rise and fall of dynasties, all to instill reverence in those who inherit the throne and the people, encouraging them to follow heaven's will and cultivate virtue in order to maintain the stability of the state forever. While the ideas reflected in the book are not commendable, from the perspective of studying ancient philosophical thought and the behavioral norms of the feudal ruling class, it is an invaluable source of documentary material.