Counsels of Gao Yao

In examining ancient traditions, Gao Yao spoke thus: "If one sincerely follows the virtues of the ancients, plans will become clear, and assistance will be harmonious."

Yu said, "Indeed. But how should this be carried out in practice?"

Gao Yao said, "Ah! One must be cautious in cultivating oneself, think far ahead, treat one's kin generously, and encourage many worthy and enlightened people to exert their efforts. Starting from near and extending to far, the key lies in this." Yu bowed in gratitude for these good words and said, "Indeed."

Gao Yao said, "Ah! The crucial point lies in knowing people and employing them wisely, and in stabilizing the hearts of the people." Yu said, "Alas! If all could be like this, even Emperor Yao would find it difficult. To know people is wisdom, and then one can appoint officials; to stabilize the people is benevolence, and then the people will submit. If one is both wise and benevolent, why worry about Huan Dou? Why exile the San Miao? Why fear those flattering, smooth-talking, and observant sycophants?"

Gao Yao said, "Ah! There are nine virtues in examining a person's conduct. If one says a person is virtuous, one must list his specific deeds." Yu asked, "What are the virtues?" Gao Yao said, "Generous yet dignified, gentle yet self-reliant, loyal yet respectful, talented yet cautious, compliant yet resolute, upright yet gentle, simple yet incorruptible, strong yet substantial, brave yet righteous. Manifest these virtues and persist in them constantly—then there will be good fortune!"

"If one can manifest three of these virtues daily and be diligent morning and night, one can govern a fief. If one can respectfully practice six virtues daily, one can assist the Son of Heaven in governing the state. If one fully accepts and widely applies all nine virtues in governance, then those of outstanding talent and virtue will hold office. The various officials will learn from and emulate one another, the hundred craftsmen will comply with the seasons, harmonize the sequence of the five elements, and all achievements will coalesce into success."

"Do not indulge in selfish desires or seek ease. Govern the state with reverence and caution, for in one or two days there may be ten thousand changes. Do not establish offices without purpose; the affairs of Heaven must be carried out by men on behalf of Heaven."

"Heaven has established constant laws, warning us to use the five norms (father's righteousness, mother's kindness, elder brother's friendliness, younger brother's respect, son's filial piety) to enrich moral education. Heaven has established ritual systems; we follow the five rites (auspicious, inauspicious, military, guest, and festive) to practice them universally. Ruler and minister must respect each other and be of one mind. Heaven appoints those with virtue, using the five ranks of attire to manifest rank. Heaven punishes those with guilt, using the five punishments to administer justice. Be diligent in governance, be diligent!"

"Heaven's seeing and hearing come from the seeing and hearing of the people. Heaven's rewards and punishments come from the rewards and punishments of the people. The will of Heaven and the hearts of the people are interconnected. Be reverent, O ruler who possesses the realm!"

Gao Yao said, "My words are reasonable and can be put into practice."

Yu said, "Indeed. When your words are implemented, they will surely yield achievements."

Gao Yao said, "I have no wisdom; I merely think of assisting the sovereign to succeed."