Summary: The Mandate Of Heaven

In the context of ancient China, much can be learned about actions which were deemed virtuous, or proper, by exploring historical literature. Whether an individual was an emperor or a farmer, he or she was expected to conform to a set of behavioral rules that appears to have varied little. Indeed, it appears that those with higher positions of prestige were held to a higher standard than those of common laborers. This difference was possibly used as a method to ensure the stability of the system and the future prosperity of the empire. The majority of information presented here pertains specifically to military officers, government officials, or emperors. However, hints as to the proper behavior expected from those on the lower rungs …show more content…
As the highest person within the Chinese system upon whom the balance of the universe hung, the emperor was under tremendous pressure to be virtuous. In ‘The Mandate of Heaven,’ an exhaustive list of characteristics is laid out for the emperor by his highest advisor. As with the lowliest workers in his realm, he was urged to display loyalty, but he was also told to accept criticism well, respect his elders, seek out good counsel, learn and apply the “wisdom of the ancients,” be gentle, and care for his family. Although the qualities of a virtuous emperor are noted in this text, it is perhaps equally enlightening to note the behaviors which draw censure. Acting out of lust or greed, drinking, singing or dancing, ignoring the wisdom of counsellors or those who live with virtue are all actions which are viewed as unacceptable and which will bring ruin. Interestingly, the punishment for committing the actions seems to have been disaster for the family or nation of the culprit, whereas the punishment for a government minister who allows an emperor to do so unchallenged is branding. Threats such as this were likely taken seriously by ministers such as Chi