Tribute and Honor
Tribute and Ceremony: A Translation and Analysis of “Cai Shu” from the Book of Songs
Introduction
The poem “Cai Shu” (采菽) from the “Book of Songs” (Shijing) presents a vivid picture of the ceremonial proceedings and the grandeur associated with the tributes paid by the nobility to the Zhou Dynasty kings. The poem is divided into five sections, each detailing a different aspect of the tribute ceremony, from the preparation to the final reception and rewards bestowed by the king.
Translation
Gathering Soybeans
Gathering soybeans, gathering soybeans,
Filling baskets and hampers.
The noble lords come to the court,
What will the king bestow upon them?
Even if there’s nothing to give,
He will grant them chariots and horses.
And what else will he bestow?
Robes of dragon and embroidered garments.
Noble Procession
Beside the bubbling spring,
I gather watercress.
The noble lords come to the court,
Their banners gradually approaching.
Their flags flutter majestically,
The sound of chariot bells is delightful.
Three horses, four horses pull the chariots,
The noble lords arrive from afar.
Honored Attire
Red knee pads on their thighs,
Leg wraps tied in slanting patterns.
Not lazy, not arrogant,
Thus the king bestows rewards.
The noble lords are truly happy,
The king’s mandate is given to them.
The noble lords are truly happy,
They are blessed with fortune and rank.
Flourishing Oak
The oak branches are clustered,
Its leaves are dense and lush.
The noble lords are truly happy,
They stabilize the state, valued by the king.
The noble lords are truly happy,
A thousand blessings converge upon them.
They govern their subordinate states well,
Thus everyone follows them.
Secure Voyage
The wooden boat floats on the water,
Ropes secure it, preventing drift.
The noble lords are truly happy,
The king recognizes their talents.
The noble lords are truly happy,
They are richly rewarded and well cared for.
Leisurely and free, they are content,
Their lives are stable and prosperous.
Analysis
1. The Setting and Preparation:
The poem opens with an image of people gathering soybeans in baskets, symbolizing the meticulous preparation and abundant offerings for the noble lords’ audience with the king. This initial scene sets a joyous and grand tone, indicating the significance of the event.
2. The Noble Procession:
As the poem progresses, it transitions from the preparatory stage to the arrival of the noble lords. The poet describes the majestic sight of the lords’ banners and the melodic sound of their chariot bells. This visual and auditory imagery enhances the grandeur of the procession, reflecting the high status and respect accorded to the visiting nobles.
3. Honored Attire and Conduct:
The third section focuses on the attire and conduct of the noble lords. Their red knee pads and slanting leg wraps symbolize their adherence to courtly decorum. The king’s rewards for their proper conduct emphasize the importance of etiquette and diligence, highlighting the reciprocal relationship between the king and his subjects.
4. Flourishing Oak – Stability and Governance:
The flourishing oak metaphorically represents the noble lords’ role in stabilizing and governing the state. Their happiness is derived from their esteemed position and the king’s recognition of their efforts. This section underscores the political stability and harmony that result from competent governance.
5. Secure Voyage – Recognition and Rewards:
The final section likens the relationship between the king and the noble lords to a securely anchored boat. The noble lords’ talents are recognized and richly rewarded by the king, ensuring their contentment and prosperity. This secure and stable relationship between the ruler and his subjects is essential for a flourishing state.
Historical and Cultural Context
“Cai Shu” provides a glimpse into the intricate rituals and ceremonies of the Zhou Dynasty. The poem reflects the hierarchical social structure, where noble lords play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and prosperity of the state. The emphasis on proper conduct, diligent governance, and reciprocal recognition highlights the Confucian values of propriety, loyalty, and social harmony.
Literary Techniques
The poem employs several literary techniques characteristic of classical Chinese poetry, such as parallelism and repetition. The use of repeated imagery, such as gathering soybeans and the noble lords’ happiness, creates a rhythmic and cohesive structure. Additionally, the metaphorical use of natural elements like the bubbling spring and the flourishing oak enriches the poem’s thematic depth and resonance.
Conclusion
“Cai Shu” stands as a testament to the ceremonial grandeur and social values of ancient China. Through its vivid imagery and structured narrative, the poem celebrates the harmonious relationship between the king and his noble lords, underscoring the importance of diligent governance, proper conduct, and reciprocal recognition. For modern readers, “Cai Shu” offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical insights, illustrating the timeless pursuit of harmony and stability in human society.