“Political Shifts and Rituals in Ancient China”

Year 15: A Year of Political Change and Rituals

Spring: In the first month of the 15th year, the leader of Zhu visited the capital for a formal audience. During this period, a rat caused the death of a sacrificial ox in the suburbs, prompting a replacement of the animal for rituals. On the day of Xinchou in the second month, the state of Chu conquered the state of Hu and returned Hu’s leader, Bao, to his homeland.

Summer: On the day of Xinwei in the fifth month, a sacrificial ceremony was held in the suburbs. On the day of Renshen, Duke Gao passed away in the royal palace. Zheng’s general Han Da led an army to invade Song. The rulers of Qi and Wei encamped at Quji, and the leader of Zhu came to mourn the Duke.

Autumn: In the seventh month, on the day of Renshen, the ruler of the Si family died. On the day of Gengchen in the eighth month, a solar eclipse occurred. In the ninth month, the leader of Teng arrived to attend the funeral. On the day of Dingsi, Duke Ding was buried, but rain prevented the completion of the burial rites. On the day of Wuwu, the sky cleared, allowing the funeral to proceed. On the day of Xinsi, Duke Ding’s consort was also buried. In the winter, the city of Qi was fortified.

Spring Details: During the spring, the ruler of Zhu visited to pay respects. Zigong observed that Zhu’s leader held his jade high, signifying pride, while the Duke received it with lowered posture, indicating humility. Zigong remarked that both rulers showed signs of decline. He noted that proper conduct, whether in daily life or during rituals, is crucial for stability. The high and proud posture of Zhu’s leader suggested arrogance, while the Duke’s humility indicated possible decline. Proper conduct in rituals and governance reflects stability and legitimacy.

Summer Details: The state of Chu’s conquest of Hu saw Hu’s leader, Bao, returned but remaining unengaged with Chu, reflecting a strategic withdrawal to avoid additional costs. In February, Chu defeated Hu. In May, Duke Gao’s death was observed. Confucius commented that Duke Gao’s misfortune was a result of his own actions, reflecting the belief that excessive speech can lead to trouble.

Autumn Details: Zheng’s general Han Da defeated the forces of Song at Lao Qiu. The rulers of Qi and Wei, encamped at Quji, planned to aid Song. In the autumn, the ruler of the Si family died, but no specific titles were given, reflecting a lack of proper ceremonial respect. Duke Ding’s funeral was initially disrupted by rain, highlighting the challenges in adhering to ritual norms. The completion of the burial rites was eventually achieved when the weather cleared.

Winter Details: The city of Qi was fortified, indicating ongoing strategic adjustments. The documentation notes that the records were not updated in a timely manner, reflecting a lapse in accurate record-keeping.

Summary: The 15th year was marked by significant political shifts, including conquests, deaths, and ritual disruptions. The events highlight the intricate relationship between politics, rituals, and governance in ancient China. The visits of rulers, strategic military movements, and the observance of funerary rites illustrate the importance of proper conduct and the impact of political decisions on stability and continuity.