| | Heaven is lofty in its position but benevolent in its actions, therefore those who rule as sovereigns should emulate Heaven's conduct. Thus, they remain deeply concealed internally, which is why they are considered divine. Externally, they observe broadly, which is why they are deemed wise. They entrust the multitude of virtuous talents, which is why they receive accomplishments; They do not personally toil over affairs, which is why they are esteemed. They love all living beings and do not use rewards or punishments based on their own joy or anger, which is why they are regarded as benevolent. Therefore, those who rule as sovereigns take non-action as the way and impartiality as their treasure. They establish a position of non-action and appoint officials fully prepared for their duties. Their feet do not move on their own, yet attendants guide them forward; their mouths do not speak on their own, yet announcers offer words of praise; their minds do not deliberate on their own, yet ministers act in accordance with what is appropriate. Thus, no one sees them acting, yet accomplishments are achieved. This is how sovereigns emulate Heaven's conduct. Ministers, in following the way of Earth, reveal their form and express their nature to others. Whether high or low, perilous or easy, firm or yielding, strong or soft, fertile or barren, beautiful or ugly—these characteristics accumulate into resources that can be utilized. Therefore, whether their form is suitable or not, it becomes a resource that can be obtained. Ministers, by valuing trustworthiness as the Earth does, fully reveal their true nature to the sovereign; thus, the sovereign can obtain and utilize them. Therefore, the way of kingship is authoritative yet never loses its foundation. Ministers, by consistently exhausting their sincerity and exerting all their strength while revealing their strengths and weaknesses, allow the sovereign to appropriately employ them according to their abilities. This is akin to how Earth fully reveals its nature; thus, whether suitable or not, their form becomes a resource that can be acquired.
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