| | Human beings are born with stillness—this is Heaven's nature; Stirred by external things, they move—this is the expression of human nature. When objects come and knowledge arises, then likes and dislikes take form. When one's likes and dislikes are without restraint internally, and external influences lead to temptation, if one cannot reflect inwardly, the principles of Heaven will be extinguished. External things can endlessly move people; if human likes and dislikes have no limits, then when external objects arrive, people become transformed by them. When people are transformed by external things, it means they extinguish the principles of Heaven and indulge human desires to their extremes. Thus arise thoughts of rebellion and deceit, as well as acts of licentiousness and disorder. Therefore, the strong intimidate the weak; the many oppress the few; the wise deceive the foolish; the brave torment the timid. The sick and afflicted are not cared for, and the elderly, young, widows, and orphans find no place—this is the path to great disorder. Therefore, sage kings of old established rites and music to regulate human conduct: wearing mourning clothes and weeping—this was to regulate funeral customs; bells, drums, shields, and axes—these were used to harmonize joy and peace; marriage and the capping/jewel ceremonies for women—these served to distinguish between men and women; archery, ancestral sacrifices, and sacrificial feasts—these were used to regulate social interactions. Rites restrain the people's hearts; music harmonizes their voices; government enforces these, and punishments prevent transgressions. When rites, music, punishments, and governance are fully implemented without contradiction, then the way of kingship is complete.
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