Fang Luo

"Seeking Counsel"

Preface: "Seeking Counsel" is about the newly ascended King of Zhou consulting with his ministers on state affairs in the ancestral temple.

I come to inquire about my beginning, to follow this bright and illustrious way of the former kings. Alas, how profound it is, and I have no experience yet. Let me follow it; I inherit the former king's will, yet I hesitate and am irresolute.

I am young and tender in years, hardly able to bear the many calamities of the state.

I inherit the former king's statutes for court and country, raising and governing his house and realm. O great former king, protect me and look into my own self.

The chapter "Seeking Counsel" has twelve lines in one stanza.