Journal of Jingchutang -- Series of Ancient Proverbs

Author: Ni Si (Song Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-04-01
Features: Since the publication of the series "The Sayings of the Ancients," readers have widely recognized it as a good idea. Therefore, we have compiled the second volume. To cater to the interests of a broader audience, the second volume expands upon the previous concept by selecting a wider range of content, such as the experiences of ancient officials, folk language reflecting the customs and social conditions of ancient times, the dietary and health practices of scholars, and the wellness experiences of the elderly, among others. This time, attention has been paid to these aspects. Additionally, some well-known authors like Li Shangyin, Zhang Yanghao, and Bo Shouling are included. Readers may have previously focused only on their literary achievements, but this time we have uncovered their miscellaneous writings in other fields to broaden the scope of their understanding. We believe readers will find this interesting. Furthermore, a brief introductory commentary is provided at the beginning of each book to facilitate readers' comprehension.
Ni Si, styled Zhengfu, was also known as Qizhai Laoren and was from Guian County, Huzhou, in the Song Dynasty. The Jingtuchang Zazhi is a collection of reading notes and reflections from Ni Si's later years, which can also be considered a work of philosophical musings. His insights into the dialectical relationship between "poverty" and "prosperity" in life, as well as the interplay of favorable and unfavorable circumstances, reached an exceptionally high level for his time. His ten "Duties of Offspring" for instructing his children and the "Ten Precepts for Sending Daughters Away" are regarded as the epitome of standards for elder education over the centuries and have been widely recognized by society.
The text is based on the Ming Wanli edition and has been annotated and punctuated using popular variant versions. This book comprehensively and thoroughly elaborates on a series of principles for conduct, ambition, family relationships, and interpersonal interactions. It also touches on topics such as governing, statecraft, scholarship, self-cultivation, and the nurturing of character, as well as reflections on society, nature, and life. It serves as a valuable reference for the construction of our current spiritual civilization and moral norms. The language is concise, elegant, vivid, straightforward, and easy to read, making it highly appreciable.