| | 平津侯主... : |
丞相公孫弘者，齊菑川國薛縣人也，字季。少時為薛獄吏，有罪，免。家貧，牧豕海上。年四十餘，乃學春秋雜說。養後母孝謹。 |
| | The prime minister Gongsun Hong was a native of Xue Xian, Zichuan Guo, Qi, and his courtesy name was Ji. When he was young, he served as an official in the Xue prison, but committed a crime and was dismissed. His family was poor, so he raised pigs by the sea. At more than forty years old, he began to study miscellaneous interpretations of the Spring and Autumn Annals. He was filial and careful in supporting his stepmother.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
建元元年，天子初即位，招賢良文學之士。是時弘年六十，徵以賢良為博士。使匈奴，還報，不合上意，上怒，以為不能，弘乃病免歸。 |
| | In the first year of Jianyuan, when the Son of Heaven had just ascended the throne, he summoned virtuous and learned scholars. At that time Gongsun Hong was sixty years old; he was summoned as a xianliang scholar and appointed as a bo shi. He was sent to the Xiongnu, but when he returned with his report, it did not meet the emperor's expectations. The emperor became angry and considered him incompetent; Gongsun Hong then fell ill, resigned from office, and returned home.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
元光五年，有詔徵文學，菑川國復推上公孫弘。弘讓謝國人曰：「臣已嘗西應命，以不能罷歸，願更推選。」國人固推弘，弘至太常。太常令所徵儒士各對策，百餘人，弘第居下。策奏，天子擢弘對為第一。召入見，狀貌甚麗，拜為博士。是時通西南夷道，置郡，巴蜀民苦之，詔使弘視之。還奏事，盛毀西南夷無所用，上不聽。 |
| | In the fifth year of Yuanguang, an imperial edict summoned learned scholars; Zichuan Guo again recommended and submitted Gongsun Hong. Gongsun Hong declined, thanking the people of his native state, and said: "I have already once gone west to accept an imperial commission but was dismissed for incompetence. I hope another candidate will be selected instead." The people of the native state insisted on recommending Gongsun Hong, and he went to Taichang. Taichang ordered all the summoned Confucian scholars to submit policy responses; among more than a hundred people, Gongsun Hong ranked lowest. When the policy responses were submitted, the Son of Heaven elevated Gongsun Hong's response to first place. He was summoned for an audience; he had a very handsome appearance and was appointed as bo shi. At that time, the southern route to the southwest Yi tribes was being opened for communication and a commandery was established. The people of Ba and Shu suffered from this; an imperial decree sent Gongsun Hong to inspect the situation. When he returned, he reported on the matter, strongly criticizing the southwest Yi as useless; the emperor did not listen.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
弘為人恢奇多聞，常稱以為人主病不廣大，人臣病不儉節。弘為布被，食不重肉。后母死，服喪三年。每朝會議，開陳其端，令人主自擇，不肯面折庭爭。於是天子察其行敦厚，辯論有餘，習文法吏事，而又緣飾以儒術，上大說之。二歲中，至左內史。弘奏事，有不可，不庭辯之。嘗與主爵都尉汲黯請閒，汲黯先發之，弘推其後，天子常說，所言皆聽，以此日益親貴。嘗與公卿約議，至上前，皆倍其約以順上旨。汲黯庭詰弘曰：「齊人多詐而無情實，始與臣等建此議，今皆倍之，不忠。」上問弘。弘謝曰：「夫知臣者以臣為忠，不知臣者以臣為不忠。」上然弘言。左右幸臣每毀弘，上益厚遇之。 |
| | Gongsun Hong was a man of broad and unusual knowledge, often saying that the illness of a ruler lay in not being magnanimous, while the illness of an official lay in not practicing frugality. Gongsun Hong used a plain cotton quilt and ate meat no more than once per meal. When his stepmother died, he observed the mourning period for three years. At every court assembly, he would present the issues clearly and let the ruler decide; he refused to argue or oppose in person before the court. At this time, the Son of Heaven observed that Gongsun Hong had a sincere and upright character, was eloquent in debate, well-versed in literary law and official matters, and further adorned these with Confucian learning; the emperor greatly favored him. Within two years, he rose to become Zuo Neishi. When Gongsun Hong submitted matters for imperial consideration and found something inappropriate, he did not argue about it in court. Once, while Gongsun Hong and Ju An, the Duke of Titles and Marquisates, requested a private audience with the emperor, Ju An spoke first. Gongsun Hong followed up later; the Son of Heaven was always pleased, listened to all that was said, and thus their relationship grew increasingly close and honored. He once made agreements with the high ministers and officials in private discussions, but when they stood before the Son of Heaven, they all broke their previous agreements to follow imperial instructions. Ju An confronted Gongsun Hong in court and said, "Many people from Qi are deceitful and lack sincerity. At first you joined me and the others in proposing this plan, but now you have all broken it; that is disloyal." The emperor asked Gongsun Hong about it. Gongsun Hong replied, "Those who understand me regard me as loyal; those who do not understand me consider me disloyal." The emperor agreed with Gongsun Hong's words. Whenever the favored courtiers slandered Gongsun Hong, the emperor treated him even more kindly and generously.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
元朔三年，張歐免，以弘為御史大夫。是時通西南夷，東置滄海，北筑朔方之郡。弘數諫，以為罷敝中國以奉無用之地，願罷之。於是天子乃使朱買臣等難弘置朔方之便。發十策，弘不得一。弘乃謝曰：「山東鄙人，不知其便若是，願罷西南夷、滄海而專奉朔方。」上乃許之。 |
| | In the third year of Yuanshuo, Zhang Ou was dismissed, and Gongsun Hong became Yushi Daifu. At that time the southern route to the western Yi tribes was opened; in the east, Canghai Commandery was established, and in the north, Shuofang Commandery was built. Gongsun Hong repeatedly advised against it, saying that exhausting the central lands to support an unprofitable region was not wise; he wished for these projects to be abandoned. Therefore, the Son of Heaven sent Zhu Maichen and others to challenge Gongsun Hong on the benefits of establishing Shuofang. Ten arguments were presented; Gongsun Hong could not counter even one. Gongsun Hong then apologized and said, "I am a humble man from the east; I did not realize its benefits were so great. I wish to abandon the southwest Yi and Canghai projects in order to focus solely on Shuofang." The emperor then agreed.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
汲黯曰：「弘位在三公，奉祿甚多。然為布被，此詐也。」上問弘。弘謝曰：「有之。夫九卿與臣善者無過黯，然今日庭詰弘，誠中弘之病。夫以三公為布被，誠飾詐欲以釣名。且臣聞管仲相齊，有三歸，侈擬於君，桓公以霸，亦上僭於君。晏嬰相景公，食不重肉，妾不衣絲，齊國亦治，此下比於民。今臣弘位為御史大夫，而為布被，自九卿以下至於小吏，無差，誠如汲黯言。且無汲黯忠，陛下安得聞此言。」天子以為謙讓，愈益厚之。卒以弘為丞相，封平津侯。 |
| | Ju An said, "Gongsun Hong holds a position among the Three Dukes and receives a very generous salary. Yet he uses only a plain cotton quilt; this is deception." The emperor asked Gongsun Hong. Gongsun Hong apologized and said, "That is true. Among the Nine Ministers, none are as kind to me as Ju An; yet today he confronted me in court and indeed struck at my weakness. For a Three Duke official to use only a plain cotton quilt is truly an act of pretense, intended merely to fish for reputation. Moreover, I have heard that Guan Zhong served as prime minister of Qi and had three residences; his extravagance rivaled the ruler's. Duke Huan of Qi became a hegemon through him, yet this was also an act of overstepping the ruler in terms of status. Yan Ying served as prime minister to Duke Jing, ate meat no more than once a meal, and his concubines did not wear silk; yet the state of Qi was well governed. This is an example of lowering oneself to be on par with commoners. Now, I Gongsun Hong hold the position of Yushi Daifu and use only a plain cotton quilt. From the Nine Ministers down to minor officials, there is no distinction; this truly matches what Ju An said. Moreover, were it not for Ju An's loyalty, how could Your Majesty have heard these words?" The emperor regarded this as humility and became even more generous toward him. In the end, Gongsun Hong was appointed prime minister and enfeoffed as Marquis of Pingjin.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
弘為人意忌，外寬內深。諸嘗與弘有卻者，雖詳與善，陰報其禍。殺主父偃，徙董仲舒於膠西，皆弘之力也。食一肉脫粟之飯。故人所善賓客，仰衣食，弘奉祿皆以給之，家無所餘。士亦以此賢之。 |
| | Gongsun Hong was by nature jealous and suspicious; outwardly he appeared broad-minded, but inwardly he was deep and calculating. Those who had previously fallen out with Gongsun Hong were outwardly treated kindly by him, but secretly he would retaliate against them. The killing of Zupu Yan and the relocation of Dong Zhongshu to Jiaoxi were both due to Gongsun Hong's efforts. He ate rice porridge with only one kind of meat, made from coarsely ground grain. His friends and the guests he favored relied on him for clothing and food; Gongsun Hong gave them all his salary, leaving nothing in his household. Scholars also regarded him as virtuous because of this.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
淮南、衡山謀反，治黨與方急。弘病甚，自以為無功而封，位至丞相，宜佐明主填撫國家，使人由臣子之道。今諸侯有畔逆之計，此皆宰相奉職不稱，恐竊病死，無以塞責。乃上書曰：「臣聞天下之通道五，所以行之者三。曰君臣，父子，兄弟，夫婦，長幼之序，此五者天下之通道也。智，仁，勇，此三者天下之通德，所以行之者也。故曰『力行近乎仁，好問近乎智，知恥近乎勇』。知此三者，則知所以自治；知所以自治，然後知所以治人。天下未有不能自治而能治人者也，此百世不易之道也。今陛下躬行大孝，鑒三王，建周道，兼文武，厲賢予祿，量能授官。今臣弘罷駑之質，無汗馬之勞，陛下過意擢臣弘卒伍之中，封為列侯，致位三公。臣弘行能不足以稱，素有負薪之病，恐先狗馬填溝壑，終無以報德塞責。願歸侯印，乞骸骨，避賢者路。」天子報曰：「古者賞有功，襃德，守成尚文，遭遇右武，未有易此者也。朕宿昔庶幾獲承尊位，懼不能寧，惟所與共為治者，君宜知之。蓋君子善善惡惡，（君宜知之）君若謹行，常在朕躬。君不幸罹霜露之病，何恙不已，乃上書歸侯，乞骸骨，是章朕之不德也。今事少閒，君其省思慮，一精神，輔以醫藥。」因賜告牛酒雜帛。居數月，病有瘳，視事。 |
| | When the states of Huainan and Hengshan plotted rebellion, their party was being investigated with great urgency. Gongsun Hong fell seriously ill and thought to himself that he had been enfeoffed without merit, and as a prime minister should assist the enlightened ruler in governing the state and guiding people along the path of being loyal subjects. Now that some feudal lords have plans to rebel, this is all due to the prime minister's failure in his duties. I fear I may die of shame and guilt before my responsibilities are fulfilled. He therefore submitted a memorial, saying: "I have heard that there are five universal principles for governing the world, and three ways to implement them. They are: ruler and minister, father and son, elder and younger brothers, husband and wife, and the order of seniority between elders and juniors. These five are the universal principles for governing the world. Wisdom, benevolence, and courage—these three are the common virtues of the world, the means by which these principles are implemented. Hence it is said: 'Diligent action approaches benevolence; a love of inquiry approaches wisdom; and the awareness of shame approaches courage.' Understanding these three virtues means understanding how to govern oneself. Knowing how to govern oneself, one then knows how to govern others. There has never been anyone in the world who could not govern himself yet succeeded in governing others; this is a principle that remains unchanged for a hundred generations. Now, Your Majesty personally practices great filial piety, examines the three kings, establishes the ways of Zhou, combines literary and martial virtues, encourages virtuous men with rewards, and assigns offices according to ability. Now I Gongsun Hong am a dull and mediocre man, without any merit from battlefield service. Yet Your Majesty has mistakenly elevated me from the ranks of common soldiers, enfeoffed me as a marquis, and raised me to the position among the Three Dukes. My conduct and ability are insufficient for such a position, and I have long suffered from an illness as weak as that of a man who carries firewood. I fear I will die before Your Majesty, fall into a ditch, and ultimately be unable to repay your kindness or fulfill my duties. I wish to return the marquis seal, request permission to retire from office, and step aside for more virtuous men." The emperor replied: "In ancient times, rewards were given for meritorious service and virtue. Maintaining the dynasty valued literary virtues; in times of crisis, martial prowess was favored. There has never been a change from this principle. I have long aspired to attain the exalted position of ruler, but I fear my inability to bring peace. The only ones who can share in governing with me are you; this is something you should understand. A true gentleman values virtue and abhors vice, (this is what you should know). If you act with care and diligence, you will always remain close to me. If you are unfortunate enough to suffer from an illness caused by exposure to cold and dew, why persist in your ailment? To submit a memorial requesting the return of your marquis title and retirement is to highlight my own lack of virtue. Now that affairs are somewhat less busy, you should rest, conserve your thoughts, concentrate your spirit, and take care with medical treatment." The emperor therefore granted him a leave of absence along with oxen, wine, and various bolts of silk. After several months, his illness improved somewhat, and he resumed official duties.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
元狩二年，弘病，竟以丞相終。子度嗣為平津侯。度為山陽太守十餘歲，坐法失侯。 |
| | In the second year of Yuanshou, Gongsun Hong fell ill and eventually died while still serving as prime minister. His son Du succeeded him as Marquis of Pingjin. Du served as governor of Shanyang for more than ten years, but was stripped of his marquis title due to legal violations.
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主父偃者，齊臨菑人也。學長短縱橫之術，晚乃學易、春秋、百家言。游齊諸生閒，莫能厚遇也。齊諸儒生相與排擯，不容於齊。家貧，假貸無所得，乃北游燕、趙、中山，皆莫能厚遇，為客甚困。孝武元光元年中，以為諸侯莫足游者，乃西入關見衛將軍。衛將軍數言上，上不召。資用乏，留久，諸公賓客多厭之，乃上書闕下。朝奏，暮召入見。所言九事，其八事為律令，一事諫伐匈奴。其辭曰： |
| | Zupu Yan was a native of Linzi, Qi. He studied the strategies of persuasion and 纵横 (zongheng), but later turned to studying the Yi Jing, Spring and Autumn Annals, and writings from various schools. While traveling among the learned men of Qi, he was not treated with great respect or generosity by any of them. The Confucian scholars of Qi conspired together to exclude him and did not accept him in Qi. His family was poor, and he could not obtain any loans; thus he traveled north to Yan, Zhao, and Zhongshan, but none of them treated him generously. He lived as a guest in great hardship. In the middle of the first year of Yuanguan during the reign of Emperor Wu, thinking that none of the feudal lords were worth visiting, he traveled west through the pass to see General Wei. General Wei repeatedly recommended him to the emperor, but the Son of Heaven did not summon him. With his funds exhausted and staying for a long time, many officials and guests grew tired of him; he then submitted a memorial at the palace gate. In the morning, after submitting his memorial, in the evening he was summoned for an audience with the emperor. The nine matters he presented included eight related to laws and decrees, and one advising against attacking the Xiongnu. His words were:
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| | 平津侯主... : |
臣聞明主不惡切諫以博觀，忠臣不敢避重誅以直諫，是故事無遺策而功流萬世。今臣不敢隱忠避死以效愚計，願陛下幸赦而少察之。 |
| | I have heard that an enlightened ruler does not resent blunt remonstrations in order to gain broad insight, and a loyal minister dares not avoid severe punishment to offer direct advice. Therefore, affairs are managed without missed strategies, and achievements endure for ten thousand generations. Now I dare not conceal my loyalty or avoid death by offering a foolish plan; I hope Your Majesty will graciously pardon me and examine it carefully.
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《》曰：「國雖大，好戰必亡；天下雖平，忘戰必危。」天下既平，天子大凱，春蒐秋狝，諸侯春振旅，秋治兵，所以不忘戰也。且夫怒者逆德也，兵者凶器也，爭者末節也。古之人君一怒必伏尸流血，故聖王重行之。夫務戰勝窮武事者，未有不悔者也。昔秦皇帝任戰勝之威，蠶食天下，并吞戰國，海內為一，功齊三代。務勝不休，欲攻匈奴，李斯諫曰：「不可。夫匈奴無城郭之居，委積之守，遷徙鳥舉，難得而制也。輕兵深入，糧食必絕；踵糧以行，重不及事。得其地不足以為利也，遇其民不可役而守也。勝必殺之，非民父母也。靡獘中國，快心匈奴，非長策也。」秦皇帝不聽，遂使蒙恬將兵攻胡，辟地千里，以河為境。地固澤（咸）鹵，不生五穀。然後發天下丁男以守北河。暴兵露師十有餘年，死者不可勝數，終不能踰河而北。是豈人眾不足，兵革不備哉？其勢不可也。又使天下蜚芻芻粟，起於黃、腄、瑯邪負海之郡，轉輸北河，率三十鐘而致一石。男子疾耕不足於糧馕，女子紡績不足於帷幕。百姓靡敝，孤寡老弱不能相養，道路死者相望，蓋天下始畔秦也。 |
| | The "Sima Fa" says: "Though a state may be large, if it loves war, it will surely perish; though the world may be at peace, forgetting about warfare will certainly bring danger." Now that the world is at peace, the Son of Heaven holds grand celebrations; in spring he conducts hunting expeditions and in autumn military exercises. The feudal lords review their troops in spring and prepare for war in autumn—this is how they remain mindful of warfare. Moreover, anger is a violation of virtue; weapons are instruments of violence; and contention is the last resort. In ancient times, when a ruler became angry, corpses would fall and blood would flow; therefore, sage kings were cautious in taking such actions. Those who pursue military victories and exhaust themselves with warfare have never failed to regret it later. In the past, Emperor Qin Shi Huang relied on his military might, gradually devoured the world, annexed the warring states, unified the realm under one rule, and achieved a feat comparable to that of the Three Dynasties. Yet he never ceased in his pursuit of victory and wished to attack the Xiongnu; Li Si advised, "This is not advisable. The Xiongnu have no walled cities or stored supplies to defend; they move about like birds, and are difficult to capture and subdue. A light force advancing deep into enemy territory will inevitably run out of provisions; Carrying supplies on one's back while marching forward, the burden is too great to accomplish anything. Even if we seize their land, it would not be beneficial; and even if we encounter their people, they cannot be conscripted or made to defend the territory. To kill them upon victory is contrary to being a benevolent parent of the people. It would exhaust our central lands and bring satisfaction only to the Xiongnu, which is not a lasting strategy." Emperor Qin Shi Huang did not listen and thus dispatched Meng Tian to lead troops against the Xiongnu, expanding territory for a thousand li, using the Yellow River as the border. The land was inherently saline and alkaline, unable to produce the five grains. Then he conscripted all able-bodied men from across the realm to defend the northern Yellow River. For more than ten years, troops were exposed and stationed outdoors; the number of deaths was beyond count, yet in the end they could not cross the Yellow River to the north. Was this due to a lack of manpower or insufficient military equipment? It was simply an impossible situation. He also ordered the people of the coastal commanderies of Huang, Zhu, and Langya to transport fodder and grain from the sea, transferring it northward along the Yellow River; for every dan of grain delivered, thirty zhong had to be transported. Men worked hard in farming but still could not produce enough food and provisions; women spun and wove but still could not supply sufficient tents and coverings. The people were exhausted, orphans, widows, the elderly, and the weak could not support one another; corpses lay along the roads in sight of each other—this was when the realm first began to rebel against Qin.
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及至高皇帝定天下，略地於邊，聞匈奴聚於代谷之外而欲擊之。御史成進諫曰：「不可。夫匈奴之性，獸聚而鳥散，從之如搏影。今以陛下盛德攻匈奴，臣竊危之。」高帝不聽，遂北至於代谷，果有平城之圍。高皇帝蓋悔之甚，乃使劉敬往結和親之約，然後天下忘干戈之事。故兵法曰「興師十萬，日費千金」。夫秦常積眾暴兵數十萬人，雖有覆軍殺將系虜單于之功，亦適足以結怨深讎，不足以償天下之費。夫上虛府庫，下敝百姓，甘心於外國，非完事也。夫匈奴難得而制，非一世也。行盜侵驅，所以為業也，天性固然。上及虞夏殷周，固弗程督，禽獸畜之，不屬為人。夫上不觀虞夏殷周之統，而下（修）［循］近世之失，此臣之所大憂，百姓之所疾苦也。且夫兵久則變生，事苦則慮易。乃使邊境之民獘靡愁苦而有離心，將吏相疑而外市，故尉佗、章邯得以成其私也。夫秦政之所以不行者，權分乎二子，此得失之效也。故《》曰「安危在出令，存亡在所用」。願陛下詳察之，少加意而熟慮焉。 |
| | When Emperor Gaozu pacified the world and seized territory along the borders, he heard that the Xiongnu had gathered beyond Daigu Valley and wished to attack them. The imperial censor Cheng Jin advised, "This is not advisable." "The nature of the Xiongnu is to gather like beasts and scatter like birds; pursuing them is like trying to grasp a shadow. Now, with Your Majesty's great virtue, to attack the Xiongnu—this secretly worries me." Emperor Gaozu did not listen and proceeded northward as far as Daigu Valley, where he was indeed surrounded at Pingcheng. Emperor Gaozu deeply regretted this and thus sent Liu Jing to negotiate a marriage alliance, after which the realm forgot about war. Therefore, the art of war says: "To raise an army of one hundred thousand men costs a thousand gold pieces per day." The state of Qin often maintained a force of hundreds of thousands of troops; although it achieved feats such as destroying armies, killing generals, and capturing the Chanyu, these were merely sufficient to deepen enmity and could not compensate for the cost borne by the realm. Draining the state treasury above, exhausting the people below, yet taking pleasure in foreign affairs—this is not a complete or wise course of action. The Xiongnu are difficult to subdue and control; this has not changed for generations. They live by raiding, invading, and plundering—this is their way of life, an inherent nature. Even during the eras of Yu, Xia, Yin, and Zhou dynasties, they were not governed or supervised; they were treated like beasts, not regarded as human beings. If the ruler does not look back at the traditions of Yu, Xia, Yin and Zhou dynasties but instead follows recent mistakes of later times, this is what I greatly fear, and it is also the source of suffering for the people. Moreover, prolonged warfare breeds change; hardship in affairs leads to shifting plans. This caused the people along the border to become exhausted, distressed, and disaffected; officers and officials began to doubt one another and seek private interests abroad. Hence, Liu An and Zhang Han were able to pursue their own ambitions. The reason why the policies of Qin failed was that power became divided between these two men; this is a clear example of success and failure. Therefore, the "Zhou Shu" says: "Safety or danger depends on issuing commands; survival or destruction depends on whom one employs." I hope Your Majesty will carefully examine this matter, give it some thought, and deliberate thoroughly.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
是時趙人徐樂、齊人嚴安俱上書言世務，各一事。徐樂曰： |
| | At that time, Xu Le of Zhao and Yan An of Qi both submitted memorials discussing the affairs of the world, each addressing a single issue. Xu Le said:
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| | 平津侯主... : |
臣聞天下之患在於土崩，不在於瓦解，古今一也。何謂土崩？秦之末世是也。陳涉無千乘之尊，尺土之地，身非王公大人名族之后，無鄉曲之譽，非有孔、墨、曾子之賢，陶朱、猗頓之富也，然起窮巷，奮棘矜，偏袒大呼而天下從風，此其故何也？由民困而主不恤，下怨而上不知（也），俗已亂而政不修，此三者陳涉之所以為資也。是之謂土崩。故曰天下之患在於土崩。何謂瓦解？吳、楚、齊、趙之兵是也。七國謀為大逆，號皆稱萬乘之君，帶甲數十萬，威足以嚴其境內，財足以勸其士民，然不能西攘尺寸之地而身為禽於中原者，此其故何也？非權輕於匹夫而兵弱於陳涉也，當是之時，先帝之德澤未衰而安土樂俗之民眾，故諸侯無境外之助。此之謂瓦解，故曰天下之患不在瓦解。由是觀之，天下誠有土崩之勢，雖布衣窮處之士或首惡而危海內，陳涉是也。況三晉之君或存乎！天下雖未有大治也，誠能無土崩之勢，雖有彊國勁兵不得旋踵而身為禽矣，吳、楚、齊、趙是也。況群臣百姓能為亂乎哉！此二體者，安危之明要也，賢主所留意而深察也。 |
| | I have heard that the danger to the realm lies in a "soil collapse," not in a "tile disintegration"—this is true both anciently and today. What is meant by "soil collapse"? It was the case in the final days of Qin. Chen She had no rank of a thousand chariots, not an inch of land; he was not a descendant of the noble families or great men, nor did he have local reputation. He was neither as virtuous as Confucius, Mozi, or Zengzi, nor as wealthy as Tao Zhu or Yidun. Yet he arose from a poor alleyway, raised his staff and spear, bared one arm, shouted loudly, and the whole realm followed like the wind—what was the reason for this? It is because the people were suffering while the ruler did not show concern, resentment festered below but was unknown above, and customs had already become corrupt while governance remained uncorrected. These three factors formed Chen She's resources for his uprising. This is what is called "soil collapse." Hence it is said that the danger to the world lies in a "soil collapse." What is meant by "tile disintegration"? It refers to the armies of Wu, Chu, Qi, and Zhao. The Seven States plotted a great rebellion, each declaring themselves as sovereigns of ten thousand chariots. They were armed with hundreds of thousands of soldiers; their power was sufficient to dominate within their borders and their wealth enough to motivate their people. Yet they could not advance even an inch westward but instead were captured in the central plains—what is the reason for this? It was not because their power was less than that of a commoner or their military weaker than Chen She's. At that time, the virtue and grace of the late emperor had not yet waned, and the people were content with their land and customs; therefore, the feudal lords received no support from beyond their borders. This is what is called "tile disintegration," hence it is said that the peril of the realm does not lie in a "tile disintegration." From this we can see that if the realm truly faces a "soil collapse," even an ordinary man in humble circumstances may become the first to commit evil and endanger the whole world, as was Chen She. How much more so if rulers of the three Jin states still existed! Though the realm may not yet be in full order, if it can truly avoid a "soil collapse," even powerful states with strong armies cannot turn around quickly before being captured themselves—this was the case of Wu, Chu, Qi and Zhao. How much less likely would it be for ministers and commoners to rise in rebellion! These two conditions are the clear essentials of safety or danger, matters that a wise ruler must pay close attention to and examine thoroughly.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
閒者關東五穀不登，年歲未復，民多窮困，重之以邊境之事，推數循理而觀之，則民且有不安其處者矣。不安故易動。易動者，土崩之勢也。故賢主獨觀萬化之原，明於安危之機，修之廟堂之上，而銷未形之患。其要，期使天下無土崩之勢而已矣。故雖有彊國勁兵，陛下逐走獸，射蜚鳥，弘游燕之囿，淫縱恣之觀，極馳騁之樂，自若也。金石絲竹之聲不絕於耳，帷帳之私俳優侏儒之笑不乏於前，而天下無宿憂。名何必湯武，俗何必成康！雖然，臣竊以為陛下天然之聖，寬仁之資，而誠以天下為務，則湯武之名不難侔，而成康之俗可復興也。此二體者立，然後處尊安之實，揚名廣譽於當世，親天下而服四夷，餘恩遺德為數世隆，南面負扆攝袂而揖王公，此陛下之所服也。臣聞圖王不成，其敝足以安。安則陛下何求而不得，何為而不成，何征而不服乎哉！嚴安上書曰： |
| | Recently, the five grains have failed to yield in Guandong; harvests have not yet recovered, and many people are impoverished. Adding to this the burdens of border affairs, if we calculate and examine the situation logically, it is evident that the people will soon become restless in their dwellings. Instability makes them easily stirred into action. To be easily stirred is the sign of a "soil collapse." Therefore, a wise ruler alone observes the origins of all transformations, understands the critical points between safety and danger, and addresses them from within the court to eliminate potential dangers before they take shape. The key is simply to ensure that the realm has no "soil collapse" situation at all. Therefore, even if there are powerful states and strong armies, Your Majesty may chase down beasts, shoot flying birds, expand the hunting grounds of Yanyu, indulge in unrestrained pleasures, and enjoy the utmost delights of riding and racing—all while remaining at ease. The sounds of metal, stone, silk, and bamboo never cease to reach the ears; private entertainments with dancers, jesters, and midgets are never lacking before one's eyes, yet there is no lingering worry in the realm. Why must a ruler be named Tang or Wu? Why must customs resemble those of Cheng and Kang! Nevertheless, I secretly believe that with Your Majesty's innate virtue and broad-minded benevolence, if you truly take the realm as your priority, then the names of Tang and Wu will not be difficult to match, and the customs of Cheng and Kang can once again flourish. Once these two principles are established, then you will enjoy the reality of supreme dignity and peace; your name and reputation will be widely praised in this age. You will gain the affection of all under heaven and subdue the four barbarian regions. The lingering grace and virtue will bring prosperity for generations to come. Sitting facing south with hands clasped behind the robe, you will bow respectfully to feudal lords—this is what Your Majesty should achieve. I have heard that if one's ambition for kingship does not succeed, its failure at least brings stability. With stability, what could Your Majesty desire that you cannot obtain? What endeavor would fail to succeed? And which people would dare not submit! Yan An submitted a memorial saying:
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| | 平津侯主... : |
臣聞周有天下，其治三百餘歲，成康其隆也，刑錯四十餘年而不用。及其衰也，亦三百餘歲，故五伯更起。五伯者，常佐天子興利除害，誅暴禁邪，匡正海內，以尊天子。五伯既沒，賢聖莫續，天子孤弱，號令不行。諸侯恣行，彊陵弱，眾暴寡，田常篡齊，六卿分晉，并為戰國，此民之始苦也。於是彊國務攻，弱國備守，合從連橫，馳車擊轂，介胄生蟣蝨，民無所告愬。 |
| | I have heard that when the Zhou dynasty ruled the realm, its governance lasted for more than three hundred years; during the reigns of Cheng and Kang it reached its height, with punishments left unused for over forty years. When it declined, this also lasted more than three hundred years, hence the Five Hegemons arose in succession. The Five Hegemons were those who consistently assisted the Son of Heaven by promoting benefits and eliminating harms, punishing violence and prohibiting wickedness, correcting the realm to uphold the dignity of the Son of Heaven. After the Five Hegemons passed away, no sage or virtuous ruler continued their legacy; the Son of Heaven became isolated and weak, with proclamations going unheeded. The feudal lords acted at will, the strong bullied the weak, and the many oppressed the few. Tian Chang usurped power in Qi, while the Six Ministers divided Jin, leading to a division into warring states—this was when the people first began to suffer. At that time, powerful states focused on attacking while weak ones prepared for defense; alliances were formed and broken as chariots clashed in battle. Armor became infested with lice and mites, and the people had nowhere to turn or complain.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
及至秦王，蠶食天下，并吞戰國，稱號曰皇帝，主海內之政，壞諸侯之城，銷其兵，鑄以為鐘虡，示不復用。元元黎民得免於戰國，逢明天子，人人自以為更生。向使秦緩其刑罰，薄賦斂，省繇役，貴仁義，賤權利，上篤厚，下智巧，變風易俗，化於海內，則世世必安矣。秦不行是風而修其故俗，為智巧權利者進，篤厚忠信者退；法嚴政峻，諂諛者眾，日聞其美，意廣心軼。欲肆威海外，乃使蒙恬將兵以北攻胡，辟地進境，戍於北河，蜚芻芻粟以隨其后。又使尉[佗]屠睢將樓船之士南攻百越，使監祿鑿渠運糧，深入越，越人遁逃。曠日持久，糧食絕乏，越人擊之，秦兵大敗。秦乃使尉佗將卒以戍越。當是時，秦禍北構於胡，南掛於越，宿兵無用之地，進而不得退。行十餘年，丁男被甲，丁女轉輸，苦不聊生，自經於道樹，死者相望。及秦皇帝崩，天下大叛。陳勝、吳廣舉陳，武臣、張耳舉趙，項梁舉吳，田儋舉齊，景駒舉郢，周市舉魏，韓廣舉燕，窮山通谷豪士并起，不可勝載也。然皆非公侯之后，非長官之吏也。無尺寸之勢，起閭巷，杖棘矜，應時而皆動，不謀而俱起，不約而同會，壤長地進，至于霸王，時教使然也。秦貴為天子，富有天下，滅世絕祀者，窮兵之禍也。故周失之弱，秦失之彊，不變之患也。 |
| | When Emperor Qin Shi Huang came to power, he gradually devoured the realm and annexed all warring states. He declared himself emperor, ruled over the entire land, destroyed the walls of feudal lords, confiscated their weapons, melted them down to cast bells and frames, as a sign that warfare would never be used again. The common people of the land were freed from the warring states and encountered an enlightened emperor; each person felt as if they had been given a new life. Had Qin relaxed its punishments, reduced taxes and levies, decreased corvée labor, valued benevolence and righteousness while devaluing profit-seeking and rights, upheld sincerity from above and discouraged cunning below, transformed customs and reformed the realm's moral climate, then peace would have endured for generations. But Qin did not adopt this path and instead clung to its old customs, promoting those who were cunning and profit-driven while demoting the sincere and loyal. Its laws became severe and governance harsh, flatterers multiplied, daily praise filled the ears of the ruler, leading to swollen ambition and unchecked desires. Desiring to extend his authority beyond the seas, he sent Meng Tian with troops to attack the Xiongnu in the north, expanding territory and advancing borders. Troops were stationed along the northern Yellow River, while fodder and grain were transported from afar to support them. He also sent Wei To Tu Sui to lead a fleet of ships southward against the Baiyue, ordering Jian Lu to dig canals for transporting provisions. They advanced deeply into Yue territory, where the Yue people fled in retreat. After prolonged campaigns and extended time, supplies ran out; the Yue forces attacked them, and the Qin army suffered a great defeat. Qin then sent Wei To to lead troops for garrisoning in Yue. At that time, Qin's troubles were stirred up by the Xiongnu to the north and entangled with the Yue to the south; troops were stationed in useless lands, advancing without possibility of retreat. For more than ten years, able-bodied men were clad in armor while women transported supplies; the hardship was unbearable. People hanged themselves from trees along roads, and corpses could be seen everywhere. When Emperor Qin Shi Huang died, the realm erupted in widespread rebellion. Chen She and Wu Guang raised their forces in Chen, Wu Chen and Zhang Er did so for Zhao, Xiang Liang for Wu, Tian Dan for Qi, Jing Ju for Ying, Zhou Shi for Wei, Han Guang for Yan. From mountain passes to deep valleys, heroes rose up together—too numerous to record fully. Yet none of them were descendants of marquises or dukes, nor high-ranking officials. They had no power or influence, rising from the alleys with staffs and spears. At the right moment they all moved together, without prior planning yet acting in unison, without agreement yet gathering at the same place. They expanded their territory rapidly until reaching the status of kings and warlords—this was due to the circumstances of the time. Though Qin held the title of Son of Heaven and possessed wealth over all under heaven, it was ultimately destroyed with its ancestral sacrifices extinguished—this was the calamity of exhausting itself in warfare. Therefore, Zhou fell due to weakness and Qin perished from excessive strength—both were victims of unchanging misfortunes.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
今欲招南夷，朝夜郎，降羌僰，略濊州，建城邑，深入匈奴，燔其蘢城，議者美之。此人臣之利也，非天下之長策也。今中國無狗吠之驚，而外累於遠方之備，靡敝國家，非所以子民也。行無窮之欲，甘心快意，結怨於匈奴，非所以安邊也。禍結而不解，兵休而復起，近者愁苦，遠者驚駭，非所以持久也。今天下鍛甲砥劍，橋箭累弦，轉輸運糧，未見休時，此天下之所共憂也。夫兵久而變起，事煩而慮生。今外郡之地或幾千里，列城數十，形束壤制，旁脅諸侯，非公室之利也。上觀齊晉之所以亡者，公室卑削，六卿大盛也；下觀秦之所以滅者，嚴法刻深，欲大無窮也。今郡守之權，非特六卿之重也；地幾千里，非特閭巷之資也；甲兵器械，非特棘矜之用也：以遭萬世之變，則不可稱諱也。 |
| | Now, the plan is to pacify the southern Yi people, bring tribute from Yelang, subdue Qiang and Bo, conquer Huizhou, establish cities and towns, penetrate deep into Xiongnu territory, burn their walled cities—and those who discuss this praise it. This is in the interest of ministers and officials, but not a lasting strategy for the realm as a whole. Now within China there is no alarm of barking dogs, yet resources are drained by preparations for distant frontiers. This exhaustion harms the state and is not a way to care for its people. Pursuing endless desires for personal satisfaction, harboring resentment with the Xiongnu—this is not a way to ensure peace on the borders. Troubles accumulate without resolution, warfare ceases only to resume again; nearby people suffer in sorrow and hardship while distant ones live in fear—this is not a strategy for long-term stability. Now, throughout the realm, armor is forged and swords sharpened, arrows stacked with taut bowstrings, supplies transported and grain moved—there is no sign of rest. This is a shared concern for all under heaven. When warfare lingers, changes arise; when affairs grow complicated, worries emerge. Now the outlying commanderies stretch for thousands of miles, with dozens of walled cities arranged in lines. Their positions are constrained by terrain and surrounded by threats from neighboring feudal lords—this is not in the interest of the imperial house. Looking back at how Qi and Jin fell, it was because their royal houses had become weak and diminished while the six high-ranking ministers grew excessively powerful. Looking downward at how Qin perished, it was due to harsh laws and severe punishments, as well as an insatiable desire for endless expansion. Now the power of commandery governors is no less significant than that of the six high ministers; Their territories stretch for thousands of miles—not merely the resources of a few lanes and alleys. Armored troops, weapons, and equipment are no longer just makeshift tools like thorny sticks: should they face changes in the course of a thousand generations, it would be impossible to conceal or deny this.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
書奏天子，天子召見三人，謂曰：「公等皆安在？何相見之晚也！」於是上乃拜主父偃、徐樂、嚴安為郎中。偃數見，上疏言事，詔拜偃為謁者，遷為中大夫。一歲中四遷偃。 |
| | The memorial was presented to the Son of Heaven. The Son of Heaven summoned the three men and said, "Where have you all been?" "Why did we meet so late!" Thus, the Son of Heaven appointed Zhu Fu Yan, Xu Le, and Yan An as Langzhong. Yan was frequently summoned for audiences; he submitted memorials on state affairs, and the emperor issued an edict appointing Yan as Yezhe, later promoting him to Zhongdafa. Within one year, Yan was promoted four times.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
偃說上曰：「古者諸侯不過百里，彊弱之形易制。今諸侯或連城數十，地方千里，緩則驕奢易為淫亂，急則阻其彊而合從以逆京師。今以法割削之，則逆節萌起，前日晁錯是也。今諸侯子弟或十數，而適嗣代立，餘雖骨肉，無尺寸地封，則仁孝之道不宣。願陛下令諸侯得推恩分子弟，以地侯之。彼人人喜得所願，上以德施，實分其國，不削而稍弱矣。」於是上從其計。又說上曰：「茂陵初立，天下豪桀并兼之家，亂眾之民，皆可徙茂陵，內實京師，外銷姦猾，此所謂不誅而害除。」上又從其計。 |
| | Yan advised the emperor, saying: "In ancient times, feudal lords did not have territories exceeding a hundred li; their strength and weakness were easily controlled. Now, some feudal lords control dozens of walled cities with territories spanning a thousand li. In times of peace, they grow arrogant and indulgent, prone to corruption; in times of crisis, they rely on their strength to unite against the capital." If we now use legal means to strip them of power, rebellious tendencies will arise—this was what happened with Chao Cuo before. Now, the sons and grandsons of feudal lords may number in the dozens. Yet only the legitimate heir succeeds to the fief; the rest, though blood relatives, receive no land or title—thus, the principles of benevolence and filial piety cannot be practiced. I beg Your Majesty to issue an edict allowing feudal lords to bestow their fiefs upon their sons and brothers, granting them the title of marquis. They will all be pleased to receive what they desire; through this act of virtue, the ruler can quietly divide their fiefs. The states will thus be fragmented without direct suppression and gradually weakened." Thus, the emperor followed his plan. He also advised the emperor, saying: "Now that Maoling has been newly established, all powerful families who have accumulated wealth and influence, as well as disorderly commoners, may be relocated there. This would strengthen the capital internally while eliminating troublemakers externally—this is what is called removing harm without resorting to punishment." The emperor once again followed his plan.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
尊立衛皇后，及發燕王定國陰事，蓋偃有功焉。大臣皆畏其口，賂遺累千金。人或說偃曰：「太橫矣。」主父曰：「臣結發游學四十餘年，身不得遂，親不以為子，昆弟不收，賓客棄我，我阸日久矣。且丈夫生不五鼎食，死即五鼎烹耳。吾日暮途遠，故倒行暴施之。」 |
| | The enshrinement of the Wei Empress, and the exposure of Prince Dingguo of Yan's secret affairs—Zhu Fu Yan had a role in these achievements. Ministers all feared his sharp tongue and bribed him with gifts amounting to thousands of gold pieces. Someone advised Yan, saying: "You have become too overbearing." Zhu Fu replied: "Since I tied my hair and began traveling to study, it has been more than forty years. My ambitions have not yet been fulfilled; my family does not regard me as a son, my brothers do not accept me, and guests abandon me. I have long endured hardship. Moreover, if a man cannot live in luxury with five-tiered meals while alive, then he will be boiled in five-tiered cauldrons after death. I am now old and far from my goal, so I must act recklessly to achieve it."
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| | 平津侯主... : |
偃盛言朔方地肥饒，外阻河，蒙恬城之以逐匈奴，內省轉輸戍漕，廣中國，滅胡之本也。上覽其說，下公卿議，皆言不便。公孫弘曰：「秦時常發三十萬眾筑北河，終不可就，已而棄之。」主父偃盛言其便，上竟用主父計，立朔方郡。 |
| | Yan strongly argued that the Shuofang region was fertile and abundant, externally blocked by the Yellow River. Meng Tian had built a city there to drive out the Xiongnu; internally, it would reduce the burden of transporting troops and grain, expand the central kingdom, and serve as the foundation for defeating the Hu people. The emperor reviewed his proposal and submitted it to the ministers and high officials for discussion; they all said it would be inconvenient. Gongsun Hong said: "During the Qin dynasty, thirty thousand men were often mobilized to build a northern river defense; in the end it could not be completed and was eventually abandoned." Zhu Fu Yan strongly argued for its benefits, and the emperor ultimately followed Zhu Fu's plan, establishing the Shuofang Commandery.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
元朔二年，主父言齊王內淫佚行僻，上拜主父為齊相。至齊，遍召昆弟賓客，散五百金予之，數之曰：「始吾貧時，昆弟不我衣食，賓客不我內門；今吾相齊，諸君迎我或千里。吾與諸君絕矣，毋復入偃之門！」乃使人以王與姊姦事動王，王以為終不得脫罪，恐效燕王論死，乃自殺。有司以聞。 |
| | In Yuanshuo 2nd year (127 BC), Zhu Fu reported that King Qi was indulging in licentious behavior and deviating from proper conduct. The emperor appointed Zhu Fu as the prime minister of Qi. Upon arriving in Qi, he summoned all his brothers and guests, distributed five hundred gold pieces among them, and said: "In my time of poverty, my brothers did not provide me with food or clothing, and my guests would not even let me enter their gates; Now that I am the prime minister of Qi, you all welcome me from as far as a thousand li away. I will have nothing more to do with any of you; none of you should ever enter my door again!" He then sent someone to accuse the king of having an incestuous relationship with his sister, which shook the king. The king believed he would never escape punishment and feared being executed like Prince Yan had been; thus, he committed suicide. The officials reported this to the emperor.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
主父始為布衣時，嘗游燕、趙，及其貴，發燕事。趙王恐其為國患，欲上書言其陰事，為偃居中，不敢發。及為齊相，出關，即使人上書，告言主父偃受諸侯金，以故諸侯子弟多以得封者。及齊王自殺，上聞大怒，以為主父劫其王令自殺，乃徵下吏治。主父服受諸侯金，實不劫王令自殺。上欲勿誅，是時公孫弘為御史大夫，乃言曰：「齊王自殺無後，國除為郡，入漢，主父偃本首惡，陛下不誅主父偃，無以謝天下。」乃遂族主父偃。 |
| | When Zhu Fu was still a commoner, he had once traveled in Yan and Zhao; after attaining power, he exposed matters concerning Yan. King Zhao feared that Zhu Fu would become a threat to the state and wished to submit a memorial exposing his secret misdeeds. However, because Zhu Fu held power at court, they dared not act. When he became prime minister of Qi and left the pass, people immediately submitted a memorial accusing Zhu Fu Yan of accepting gold from feudal lords, which was why many sons and brothers of feudal lords had received titles. When King Qi committed suicide, the emperor heard about it and was furious, believing that Zhu Fu had forced his king to commit suicide. The emperor summoned him for interrogation by officials. Zhu Fu confessed to accepting gold from the feudal lords, but in truth he had not forced the king to commit suicide. The emperor wanted to spare him, but at that time Gongsun Hong was the Grand Censor and said: "King Qi committed suicide with no heir; his state has been abolished as a commandery and incorporated into Han. Zhu Fu Yan was originally the chief villain. If Your Majesty does not execute Zhu Fu Yan, there will be no way to justify this to all under heaven." Thus, they exterminated the entire family of Zhu Fu Yan.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
主父方貴幸時，賓客以千數，及其族死，無一人收者，唯獨洨孔車收葬之。天子后聞之，以為孔車長者也。 |
| | When Zhu Fu was in power and favored, he had thousands of guests; but when his family was exterminated, not a single person came to collect the bodies. Only Xiao Kongche took charge of their burial. The Son of Heaven later heard about this and considered Kongche to be an upright and virtuous man.
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| | 平津侯主... : |
太史公曰：公孫弘行義雖修，然亦遇時。漢興八十餘年矣，上方鄉文學，招俊乂，以廣儒墨，弘為舉首。主父偃當路，諸公皆譽之，及名敗身誅，士爭言其惡。悲夫！ |
| | Grand Historian said: Although Gongsun Hong's conduct and righteousness were commendable, he also benefited from the times. More than eighty years had passed since the founding of Han; now the emperor was turning toward literature and scholarship, seeking talented men to broaden Confucianism and Mohism. Gongsun Hong stood at the forefront among them. Zhu Fu Yan, when in power, was praised by all the officials; but after his reputation collapsed and he was executed, scholars competed to speak ill of him. How tragic!
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| | 平津侯主... : |
太皇太后詔大司徒大司空：「蓋聞治國之道，富民為始；富民之要，在於節儉。《》曰『』。『禮，與奢也寧儉』。昔者管仲相齊桓，霸諸侯，有九合一匡之功，而仲尼謂之不知禮，以其奢泰侈擬於君故也。夏禹卑宮室，惡衣服，后聖不循。由此言之，治之盛也，德優矣，莫高於儉。儉化俗民，則尊卑之序得，而骨肉之恩親，爭訟之原息。斯乃家給人足，刑錯之本也歟？可不務哉！夫三公者，百寮之率，萬民之表也。未有樹直表而得曲影者也。孔子不云乎，『子率而正，孰敢不正』。『舉善而教不能則勸』。維漢興以來，股肱宰臣身行儉約，輕財重義，較然著明，未有若故丞相平津侯公孫弘者也。位在丞相而為布被，脫粟之飯，不過一肉。故人所善賓客皆分奉祿以給之，無有所餘。誠內自克約而外從制。汲黯詰之，乃聞于朝，此可謂減於制度而可施行者也。德優則行，否則止，與內奢泰而外為詭服以釣虛譽者殊科。以病乞骸骨，孝武皇帝即制曰『賞有功，褒有德，善善惡惡，君宜知之。其省思慮，存精神，輔以醫藥』。賜告治病，牛酒雜帛。居數月，有瘳，視事。至元狩二年，竟以善終于相位。夫知臣莫若君，此其效也。弘子度嗣爵，后為山陽太守，坐法失侯。夫表德章義，所以率俗厲化，聖王之制，不易之道也。其賜弘後子孫之次當為後者爵關內侯，食邑三百戶，徵詣公車，上名尚書，朕親臨拜焉。」 |
| | The Taihuang Taichun issued an edict to the Grand Tutor and Grand Works Minister: "I have heard that the way of governing a state begins with enriching its people; The key to enriching the people lies in frugality. The Classic of Filial Piety says, 'To pacify superiors and govern the people, nothing is better than rites.' "Between extravagance and frugality, rites prefer frugality." In the past, Guan Zhong served as prime minister to Duke Huan of Qi and dominated the feudal lords. He had the great achievement of uniting them nine times and restoring order once; yet Confucius called him ignorant of rites, because his extravagance was comparable to that of a ruler. Xia Yu built humble palaces and wore plain clothes; later sages did not follow this example. From this, it may be said that in times of good governance, virtue is at its height, and nothing surpasses frugality. Frugality transforms the customs of the people; thus, the order between superiors and inferiors is maintained, familial bonds grow stronger, and disputes cease. Is this not the foundation for every household to be well-provided-for and for punishments to become unnecessary? How important it is, then! The Three Dukes are the leaders of all officials and the exemplars for the people. There has never been a case where an upright standard produces a crooked shadow. Did Confucius not say, "If the superior leads with uprightness, who would dare to be otherwise"? "Promoting virtue and teaching those lacking ability will encourage improvement." Since the founding of Han, among those close and trusted ministers who personally practiced frugality, valued righteousness over wealth, and whose conduct was clearly exemplary, none could compare to the former prime minister Pingjin Hou Gongsun Hong. Though holding the position of prime minister, he used a coarse cloth quilt and ate plain rice with no more than one dish of meat. Therefore, for his friends and favored guests, he distributed portions of his salary to support them, leaving nothing over. Truly, he restrained himself internally while outwardly adhering to the regulations. Ji An questioned him about this, and it was reported at court; this may be called a reduction within the system that is still feasible. Superior virtue leads to action; otherwise, it ceases. This differs greatly from those who indulge in extravagance internally while wearing deceptive finery externally to seek hollow praise. When he requested retirement on grounds of illness, Emperor Wu immediately issued an edict: "Reward the meritorious and honor the virtuous; commend good deeds and condemn evil ones—this you should know well. You must reduce your worries, preserve your spirit, and be assisted by medicine." He was granted leave to recover his health and received oxen, wine, silk, and other goods. After several months, he recovered somewhat and returned to duty. He eventually passed away peacefully in his position as prime minister during Yuanshou 2nd year. There is no one who knows a subject better than the ruler—this was clearly demonstrated. Gongsun Hong's son Du inherited his title, later serving as governor of Shanyang; he lost the marquisate due to legal violations. Displaying virtue and upholding righteousness are ways to lead customs and encourage moral transformation; this is the established system of sage kings, an unchanging principle. Therefore, I shall bestow the title of Guannei Hou upon Gongsun Hong's descendants who are next in line to succeed him. They will receive a fief of three hundred households and be summoned by official carriage to present their names at the Ministry of Works; I myself will personally attend their investiture."
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| | 平津侯主... : |
班固稱曰：公孫弘、卜式、兒寬皆以鴻漸之翼困於燕雀，遠跡羊豕之閒，非遇其時，焉能致此位乎？是時漢興六十餘載，海內乂安，府庫充實，而四夷未賓，制度多闕，上方欲用文武，求之如弗及。始以蒲輪迎枚生，見主父而嘆息。群臣慕向，異人并出。卜式試於芻牧，弘羊擢於賈豎，衛青奮於奴仆，日磾出於降虜，斯亦曩時版筑飯牛之朋矣。漢之得人，於茲為盛。儒雅則公孫弘、董仲舒、兒寬，篤行則石建、石慶，質直則汲黯、卜式，推賢則韓安國、鄭當時，定令則趙禹、張湯，文章則司馬遷、相如，滑稽則東方朔、枚皋，應對則嚴助、朱買臣，歷數則唐都、落下閎，協律則李延年，運籌則桑弘羊，奉使則張騫、蘇武，將帥則衛青、霍去病，受遺則霍光、金日磾。其餘不可勝紀。是以興造功業，制度遺文，後世莫及。孝宣承統，纂修洪業，亦講論六藝，招選茂異，而蕭望之、梁丘賀、夏侯勝、韋玄成、嚴彭祖、尹更始以儒術進，劉向、王褒以文章顯。將相則張安世、趙充國、魏相、邴吉、于定國、杜延年，治民則黃霸、王成、龔遂、鄭弘、邵信臣、韓延壽、尹翁歸、趙廣漢之屬，皆有功跡見述於後。累其名臣，亦其次也。 |
| | Ban Gu remarked: Gongsun Hong, Bu Shi, and Er Kuan all had the wings of a great goose but were trapped among sparrows and starlings, their lofty aspirations obscured by mundane affairs. Had they not encountered their time, how could they have reached such positions? At that time, more than sixty years had passed since the Han dynasty was founded. The realm was peaceful and its treasuries full, yet the four barbarian groups remained un-subjugated and many systems were incomplete. The emperor urgently desired to employ both literary and military talents, seeking them as if they could not be found soon enough. Initially, he sent a carriage with padded wheels to welcome Mei Sheng; upon meeting Zhu Fu Yan, he sighed in admiration. Ministers envied and aspired to emulate them, and outstanding individuals emerged together. Bu Shi was tested in herding and feeding livestock, Sang Yang rose from a merchant's apprentice, Wei Qing advanced from slavery, and Ri Di emerged from among surrendered captives—these were also the kind of men who once built walls or tended cattle. The Han dynasty's acquisition of talent was most flourishing at this time. In terms of Confucian learning and elegance, there were Gongsun Hong, Dong Zhongshu, and Er Kuan; in steadfast conduct, Shi Jian and Shi Qing; in integrity and straightforwardness, Ji An and Bu Shi; in recommending talent, Han Anguo and Zheng Dangshi; in establishing laws, Zhao Yu and Zhang Tang; in literary excellence, Sima Qian and Sima Xiangru; in wit and humor, Dongfang 朔 and Mei Gao; in eloquence and response, Yan Zhu and Zhu Maichen; in astronomy and calendrics, Tang Du and Luoshahong; in musical tuning, Li Yanyang; in strategic planning, Sang Hongyang; in diplomatic missions, Zhang Qian and Su Wu; and in generalship, Wei Qing and Huo Qubing. As for those who received imperial trust and carried out the late emperor's will, they were Huo Guang and Jin Ridi. The rest are too numerous to record in full. Thus, the achievements and institutions established left a legacy of writings that later generations could not surpass. Emperor Xuan inherited the throne and continued to build upon great achievements. He also discussed the Six Arts, recruited outstanding talents, and thus Xiao Wangzhi, Liangqiu He, Xiahou Sheng, Wei Xuancheng, Yan Pengzu, and Yin Gengshi advanced through Confucian scholarship, while Liu Xiang and Wang Bao became prominent for their literary excellence. Among generals and ministers were Zhang Anshi, Zhao Chongguo, Wei Xiang, Bing Ji, Yu Dingguo, and Du Yannian; among those who governed the people were Huang Ba, Wang Cheng, Gong Sui, Zheng Hong, Shao Xinchen, Han Yanshou, Yin Wengui, and Zhao Guanghan—each of them left notable achievements recorded for posterity. To list their names among the distinguished ministers is also appropriate.
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