Rituals of the World (Complete Four Volumes)

Author: Liu Yiqing (Southern Dynasties of Song) compiled, Liu Xiaozhu (Liang) annotated, Yang Yong collated annotations
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-06-01
Features: This book was first published by Hong Kong Dazhong Bookstore in September 1969. Shortly after its publication, it was reprinted by Taipei Shushu Publishing House, and its sales were surprisingly high. The "Sayings of the World" is not only a classic of ancient Chinese literature but also an important classic in history and philosophy. Its elegant language and profound content have been cherished by literati throughout the generations, as precious as jade. Unfortunately, due to the long history of copying and printing, many errors have occurred. The colloquial language and dialects are difficult to understand, and the names of events and objects often lead to confusion. Scholars have struggled with it, making it hard to read quickly. After much reflection on this book, I have often seen its profound meaning, extensively researching historical records and literature. I have developed its principles and added annotations, organizing it in a logical manner for the convenience of readers. Later, Professor Ma Rui of the University of Minnesota published an English translation of "New Errors in the Sayings of the World," Yu Jiaxi of Beijing Zhonghua Book Company published "Annotations and Explanations of the Sayings of the World," and Xu Zhenqin published "Collated Annotations of the Sayings of the World." Their standards and methods all followed the path set by predecessors. I dare to say that the early efforts were arduous and pioneering. Perhaps it can be considered a masterpiece, but it may be too laudatory to call it such.