“Reforms and Unity: The Legacy of Pan Geng”

Pan Geng moved his capital five times, finally settling in Bo and Yin. He consulted with the people and heard their grievances, composing three parts of “Pan Geng”. Pan Geng moved to Yin, where the people were unhappy with their living conditions. They gathered their families and clans, and declared, “Our king is here, so let us dwell here, supporting our people without end. If we cannot assist each other and thrive, then what are we to become? Our ancestors upheld the rituals and respected the will of the heavens, yet we still do not have peace. We have moved our capital five times, and now we depart from tradition. Do we not understand the will of the heavens, let alone follow the glorious path of our ancestors? Like a fallen tree that springs anew from the soil, may the heavens bless our settlement in this new capital, continuing the great work of our forebears, and extending our influence to the four corners of the world.”

Pan Geng learned from the people and, once in power, maintained the old customs and upheld the law. He declared, “No one shall dare to mislead the people with deceitful advice!” The king summoned his subjects to the court, saying, “Listen, my people, I will instruct you and guide you. Let go of your arrogance and follow the path of harmony. Our ancient kings sought to share the burden of governance with wise advisors. I will speak frankly, without hiding my intentions. If I rule with integrity, the people will prosper. But now, you are noisy and unruly, spreading doubt and suspicion. I do not know what you argue about. It is not I who have forsaken my virtues, but rather you who lack virtue and do not fear the consequences. If I watch over you like a fire, then I am a clumsy strategist. If I weave a net, it must be orderly. If I cultivate the land, I must harvest in due season. Rid yourselves of deceitful hearts and practice true virtue among the people, in marriage and friendship. Then you can dare to claim accumulated virtue. Do not fear distant enemies; be diligent in your farming and avoid laziness and discord. If you do not spread good words among the people but instead nurture your own bitterness, you will bring disaster upon yourselves. If you sow discord among the people and then suffer from it, who will pity you? You still heed wise advice, but your actions betray you. Why do you act recklessly and stir up trouble, risking the wrath of the masses? Like a fire spreading in the wilderness, it cannot be easily extinguished. If you cause unrest among yourselves, it is not my fault. Remember the old saying: ‘Seek what is old, but use what is new.’ Our ancient kings and ancestors worked diligently, so should we not continue their legacy? I do not overlook your efforts; I acknowledge your virtues. Today, we honor our ancestors together. May they bless our actions, whether for good or ill, and may we never act against our virtues. I warn you, be as focused as an archer with a clear target. Do not disrespect the elderly or exploit the vulnerable. Each of you should excel in your own place. Strive with all your might and heed my advice alone. Whether near or far, justice will prevail; reward the good and punish the wicked. The honor of our nation lies in your hands. If you fail, there will be no room for regret.”