Fule Zhihui (Essence)

Author:〔China〕Yusuf Khass Khajip, translated by Hao Guanzhong and others
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2000-04-01
Features: This is a long epic written in Uyghur in the eleventh century during the period of the Kara-Khanid dynasty in Chinese history. As a classic work of Uyghur literature, it has attracted the attention of scholars from China and abroad studying the history and culture of Central Asia and Xinjiang since the 19th century. The Wisdom of King Fahrlang holds significant research value due to its profound reflection of social reality, rich philosophical insights, elegant and refined poetic art, and an open style that blends traditional ethnic culture with diverse foreign influences. It occupies an important position in both ancient Chinese culture and the cultural history of Central Asia. The content of the epic can be summarized as praising the Lord and the Prophet, celebrating wise rulers, advising rulers to be just, wise, and contented; while also analyzing and evaluating the roles of various professions at the time. The work presents these themes through dialogues between four fictional symbolic characters. The "Sunrise" King, embodying justice, eagerly seeks wisdom, and after the "Full Moon," a symbol of happiness, comes to meet him, is appointed as the prime minister. On his deathbed, the prime minister recommends his wise son, "The Sage," to succeed him as prime minister. However, this son needs the assistance of his uncle, "The Awakened," who understands contentment. Despite being invited three times, he declines, causing the king great anxiety.