| | Though the meaning is difficult to convey, it is said that a sage values eliminating the troubles of the world. Because he values eliminating the troubles of the world, therefore the "Chunqiu" is emphasized, and it records thoroughly the troubles of the world. It is because they believe that understanding why the world falls into trouble originates from recognizing its causes, and their intention is to eliminate the troubles of the world—what does this mean? Only when the world is free of troubles can human nature become good; When human nature becomes good, then the influence of integrity and uprightness may flow; When the influence of integrity and uprightness flows, then the way of kingship is established. The revival of rites and music lies in this very intention. The Commentary says: The feudal lords gathered together to form an alliance. A gentleman cultivating the state said: This is what a general should do, indeed. Therefore, a gentleman takes the world's troubles as his own concern; calamities have even led to thirty-six cases of regicide and the fall of fifty-two states, all resulting from the persistence of minor evils. The meaning has already been explained; therefore it is said: Establish righteousness to clarify the distinctions between superiors and inferiors, strengthen the central authority while weakening the branches to define clearly the duties of the great and small. Distinguish doubtful actions to clarify the righteousness of proper succession; Select and collect allusions to convey meaning, in order to correct breaches of propriety. No good deed is too small not to be promoted, no evil act is too minor not to be removed, in order to purify and perfect virtue. Distinguish the virtuous from the unworthy to clarify their respective ranks of respect. By being close and kind, one brings distant people near; by adapting to each state's circumstances, one accommodates the whole world, ensuring that names, moral categories, and all things do not deviate from their proper principles. With an impartial heart to discern right from wrong, rewarding virtue and punishing evil so that the king's benevolence reaches all, it begins with eliminating troubles; by upholding unity in principle, all things are made complete. Therefore it is said: How great is its title! Two words suffice to govern the world. This is what is meant by that statement.
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