Zhang Heng, courtesy name Pingzi, was from Xie in Nanyang, and his family was well-respected. His grandfather, Zhang Kan, served as the Administrator of Shu County. Zhang Heng showed a talent for writing from an early age, studying in the Sanfu region, and later going to the Taixue in the capital. He mastered the Five Classics and the Six Arts of Confucianism. Despite his exceptional abilities, he remained humble and calm, preferring to keep his distance from common folk. During the Yongyuan era, he was recommended as a candidate known for filial piety and integrity, but he turned it down. The court repeatedly summoned him to serve in official positions, but he refused. At that time, there was long-lasting peace in the world, and both nobles and commoners were living in excess. Zhang Heng took inspiration from Ban Gu's "Fu on the Two Capitals" and wrote a piece called "Fu on the Two Capitals" as a critique of the court. He took ten years to meticulously plan and revise it, and the work was quite lengthy. General Deng Zhi appreciated his talents and called him in several times, but he still did not go.
Zhang Heng was adept at mechanical engineering, particularly interested in astronomy, yin and yang, and calendars. He often studied the "Treatise on the Tai Xuan" and once told Cui Ai, "While studying the 'Treatise on the Tai Xuan,' I've come to realize that Yang Xiong's grasp of the principles of the heavens and the numbers is truly remarkable and can stand alongside the Five Classics. It is not just a biography, but a work that allows one to deeply understand the principles of yin and yang, a work that emerged two hundred years after the Han Dynasty was established. In another two hundred years, it will probably come to an end, right? Therefore, the emergence of influential works follows this pattern: after four centuries of the Han Dynasty, the 'Treatise on the Tai Xuan' came about." Emperor An of Han heard that Zhang Heng was knowledgeable in astronomy and calendars, so he sent an imperial carriage to call him in and appointed him as a Gentleman-in-Waiting, later promoting him to the position of Grand Astrologer. Zhang Heng then focused on studying astronomy and calendars, gaining a deep understanding of celestial mechanics, inventing the armillary sphere, and authored the books "Ling Xian" and "Suan Wang Lun," both known for their clarity and detail.
In the early years of Emperor Shun's reign, Zhang Heng was reappointed as the Chief Astronomer. Zhang Heng was not driven by fame or fortune; he tended to remain in each position for several years before moving on. Five years after he left the Chief Astronomer position, he was reappointed, during which time he wrote a work titled "Ying Xian (应闲)" to articulate his aspirations.
Someone once casually mentioned to me: I heard that in ancient times, those remarkable individuals prioritized learning above all, starting from basic knowledge, and eventually reached a very high level, assisting the king in governing the country and benefiting the people; this is no exaggeration. In the morning, they absorbed wise teachings, and by evening, they diligently put them into practice, achieving success and demonstrating their virtues. So, those who aspire to assist Yao and Shun, like Yi Yin and Ji, so that the people can live a good life like the Tang and Yu eras, are not talking nonsense; they must be people of noble character. Like Jiu Dan and Wu Xian, who loyally protect the royal family, and like Shen Bo and Fan Zhong, who devoted themselves wholeheartedly to the Zhou Dynasty, wearing gorgeous court clothes and jade guis as auspicious signs. Their achievements are immortal, and their glorious deeds are passed down to future generations; isn't that truly admirable? Furthermore, learning is not for the pursuit of fame and fortune, but wealth often comes as a result. With status, you can issue commands; with wealth, you can bestow favors on the people. This concept is referred to as "great enterprise" in the Book of Changes. The beauty of objects arises from exquisite craftsmanship; a person's glory stems from their fine attire. You are talented, noble in character, knowledgeable and versatile, able to overcome any difficulties; what challenges could possibly remain? You were obstructed in the officialdom before, and now you are being reinstated. Even though Laozi's saying suggests "taking a roundabout approach," advancing and retreating are often intertwined, but action should be based on the actual situation. If you only study useless things and have no expertise in technology, it's akin to trying to cross a river without a boat, merely daydreaming about success. Relying on daydreams, even if you are exceptionally wise, how can you govern the country well? That's why you were slandered by those shallow-minded scholars before. You should strive for clarity and depth, act according to the situation; why chase after trivial skills or delve into obscure techniques? Wheels can turn on their own, and the wooden carved bird can fly by itself; it flies tired and returns to its nest. Why don't you adjust your methods to make it sharper? In ancient times, King Wen earned many blessings through his diligence. In life, you must work hard; after all, how can you expect to gain anything without effort? Why not practice humility and use kind words to mend conflicts? Like a bird chirping on a tall tree, producing a sound like gold and stone, your talent will surely be appreciated.
You will surely achieve great things in the future, to compensate for past shortcomings. Even if you are strong-willed, what can anyone do to hold you back? Nothing can stand in your way!
In short, the idler's words are essentially advising this friend to be proactive and not let temporary setbacks discourage him. He emphasized the importance of learning, practicing, being humble, and striving. He used ancient examples and philosophical metaphors to inspire this friend, hoping he would make a difference and ultimately realize his ambitions. Even though his words were lengthy, the core idea is that diligent learning and a proactive attitude are key to success. Don't let temporary difficulties intimidate you; believe in yourself and strive hard! Finally, he used the story of King Wen and some philosophical metaphors to encourage this friend, hoping that he could be positive and ultimately succeed. His words are full of positivity and reflect a proactive attitude towards life of ancient scholars.
Someone responded, "This is probably about seeing the same thing from different perspectives, isn't it? A noble person doesn't concern themselves with status, but rather with virtue; not ashamed of a low salary, only ashamed of a lack of knowledge. Therefore, skills can be learned, and behavior can be improved. Some people are born with high titles, purely dependent on fate; some get them without doing much, while others, even if envious, cannot achieve them. Chasing after it is futile, so wise people don’t dwell on it. Risking one's life for luck is what greedy people do, mourning the loss before even gaining it. Crooked actions will draw criticism from others; excessive desires can undermine one’s aspirations, isn't that shameful? With suspicions in the heart, even if there is a lavish meal, one would not want to eat because of inner unrest. With a clear conscience, even if mountains of gold and silver treasures pile up, one would not refuse, just as Mencius did. Some scholars take off their coarse clothes and wear luxurious attire; some put down their hoes to occupy grand halls and mansions, all based on virtue for titles and achievements for salaries. Hard work, contributions, and promotions are inevitable."
Next, he said, "In the primordial chaos of the universe, when the laws of motion had not yet been established, good and bad fortunes were intertwined, and people felt confused. Huangdi felt deep concern over this. Later, with the help of Feng Hou, Huangdi was able to sort everything out, observe the stars in the sky, infer the fortunes of the world, establish a calendar, and restore order to the celestial movements of the sun and moon. This was the credit of Feng Hou. In the late period of Shaohao Qingyang, the world was in turmoil, with humans and deities intertwined and indistinguishable. Chongli helped Zhuang Xu govern the world, bringing order to the movements of the sun and moon. Everyone has their own talents, and positions are assigned based on these talents. Birdmasters have different titles, with each person only holding one position and not overseeing multiple affairs. The longer the day, the shorter the night; when the sun is in the south, the shadow is in the north. If the heavens cannot manage multiple tasks at once, how can humans? Consider the Xuanlong, soaring in the wind during spring and enjoying the good times; hiding in the mud during winter to avoid the cold. Gōngdàn was a paragon of virtue, so he established rituals to govern the world, fearing that education would not be accepted by the people and that people could not be governed properly. Confucius was not successful, so he authored the 'Six Classics' in hopes of being recognized by wise rulers, feeling ashamed of his ignorance and his failure to adhere to proper protocols. If the standards for evaluation are inconsistent, how can we expect uniformity?"
During the Warring States period, the states were constantly at war, with war chariots constantly on the move. If rulers are strung together like beads without any independent thought, the people will have no one to rely on. Zhuo Wu devised a strategy that forced the King of Qin to retreat, and Lu Zhonglian used strategies to lift the state of martial law in Liaocheng. Adapting to the situation fosters unity, while reckless actions lead to disarray. Success or failure hinges on the ability to effectively utilize talent. It is widely believed that acquiring talent is as valuable as acquiring treasure, and losing talent is a great pity. Thus, Fan Kui infiltrated the camp to meet Liu Bang; Liu Bang sat beside a washbasin and talked with Li Shiqi. At that moment, the situation resembled a large tortoise calling out while a small tortoise responded, working in perfect harmony. They were able to work together, demonstrate empathy for the people's suffering, unify the country in the end, and establish an empire, thanks to the strategists' contributions! Therefore, even the smallest strategy can have a significant impact, and Sima Qian's historical records, known as the Shiji, are thorough and well-organized. Just as the female demon moves north, the dragon takes flight; when the sound of the flood stops, the army stops moving; when the heat is oppressive, the quail rests; when the ice melts, the turtle lurks. Now, with the emperor's grace flourishing and the four seas united, people from all over the world come to pay tribute, as if there is no time to govern the world; what other accomplishments can be achieved? There are three key principles to follow: be cautious in speech; if one cannot exercise caution in speech, how can one expect to achieve the other two principles?
Nowadays, officials and nobles are as numerous as the clouds, and scholars are everywhere to be found. Opportunities are unpredictable; if you happen to seize one, everything will turn out well. Times have changed, customs have evolved, and circumstances have become more complex and variable. If you can't adapt to the changes and still use old methods to measure, it's like trying to fish for a sword with a boat or waiting for a rabbit to show up at a tree stump. Risking everything to pursue fame and fortune will never yield benevolence and righteousness, which is something a person of integrity would never do. King Goujian of Yue avoided this path, which is why his descendants did not endure. While shortcuts might get you to your destination quickly, I refuse to take them; I cannot resort to opportunism. Even with a sturdy boat and strong paddles, crossing the river is still fraught with danger, just like wading through water. I would rather uphold loyalty and honesty and remain true to my integrity, accepting benefits with joy, and not regretting if I don't get them. Seeing injustice without sorrow and being untroubled in a low position exemplifies noble character. I intend to learn the virtues of ancient sages, adopt their broad vision, and discuss the significant events of the world. Kong Jia of the Xia Dynasty is not someone to be envied, let alone Pengzu of the Shang Dynasty and Dan (Laozi) of the Zhou Dynasty! Talents that set one apart from the world are destined for solitary pursuits. You worry that Zhu Pingman's talents go unrecognized, while I lament that Lun Bian's skills are not being passed down. You see a wooden bird carving soaring alone, feeling sympathy for my drooping wings, which can only perch on tree branches; I see a frog clinging to an owl, saddened by the fate of laughing first and then crying for you all.
It is said that Feibao was executed for burning books, while Li Zhi gained fame for inscribing texts for the state; Xiangao rewarded the enemy with beef and successfully repelled them; Modai preserved the city using ropes; Guan Gao demonstrated his loyalty through clever rhetoric, while Su Wu symbolized his unwavering loyalty with a staff made from a bald branch; Pu Qie boasted his rapid archery skills, while Zhan He was renowned for his exceptional fishing prowess; Yiqiu was celebrated for his extraordinary chess abilities, and Wang Bao was remembered for his beautiful singing voice. As for me, I cannot leave a legacy in history like they did, nor can I compare myself to them. Alas! Thinking about ancient texts like "San Fen" being lost, and classic works like "Ba Suo" not being organized, my heart feels heavy! I hope to draw inspiration from the lessons of the past, and I plan to retreat for a while and immerse myself in the study of history, like a beautiful jade hidden in a box, waiting for the right moment, following Yan Yuan’s example in how to navigate life, remaining untroubled by the conflicts between the Jin and Chu states, only daring to share my true feelings with those I trust.
In the summer of the first year of the Yangjia era, Zhang Heng created the seismoscope. This device was made of fine bronze, with a diameter of eight feet, with a raised lid resembling a wine jar, decorated with seal script and patterns of mountains, turtles, birds, and animals. Inside the seismoscope contained a central column surrounded by eight channels, equipped with mechanisms and trigger devices. On the outside were eight dragons, each holding a bronze ball in its mouth, below which were eight toads with open mouths ready to catch the bronze balls. The mechanisms were ingeniously hidden inside the instrument, covered seamlessly on the outside. In the event of an earthquake, the instrument would shake, causing the corresponding dragon to release a bronze ball, which would be caught by the toad. This would produce a loud sound, alerting the guards to the occurrence of the earthquake. Even if only one dragon spat out a bronze ball while the others remained still, the direction of the earthquake could still be determined. This device provided accurate and flawless earthquake detection, almost as if it were divine. According to ancient records, nothing like this had ever existed before! One time, only one dragon's mechanism was activated, but no earthquake was felt. The scholars in the capital found this strange and thought the device was ineffective. However, days later, a message arrived from a relay station reporting an earthquake in Longxi. Everyone was in awe of its miraculous accuracy. From then on, the court ordered historians to record the direction and time of earthquakes. At that time, the court was in decline, and power was shifting, and Zhang Heng wrote to the emperor expressing his views, stating: "Your Majesty, you are wise and martial, inheriting the throne, having endured the nation's turmoil, much like a dragon ensnared in a quagmire. Now that you have ascended to the throne, sitting securely on the imperial seat, achieving great success often requires enduring hardships. Only those who have faced hardships can truly understand the people's suffering, and only those who have weathered storms can see the truth of the world. Thus, Your Majesty, you can manage all affairs with confidence, with officials diligently fulfilling their duties, leading to a flourishing nation, naturally receiving the blessings of heaven and the affection of the people."
However, now there is an imbalance of yin and yang, disasters are frequent, and the heavens are observing! Blessings and calamities are interconnected; auspicious signs descend because of your virtue, while disasters arise from faults. Although the workings of heaven may seem distant, good and bad fortune can be foreseen. In recent years, the states of Zheng, Cai, Jiang, Fan, Zhou, Guang, and Wang Sheng have all suffered consequences as a result. Therefore, Your Majesty must be diligent and prudent in order to receive the blessings of heaven; if you indulge in luxury and excess, it is easy to bring about destruction. Learn from the past mistakes; they serve as a lesson for the future!
Human emotions often overcome reason, indulging in pleasure and forgetting to reflect; this is not only true for the unscrupulous, but even those with moderate abilities often do so. If not for the wise, it is difficult to remain sober at all times and uphold justice. Therefore, accumulated wrongdoings will ultimately lead to great disasters, and the blame will be hard to escape. If Your Majesty can look back and learn from the past, how can disaster befall you?
Those high-ranking officials, who are admired by all, if they make mistakes, everyone will know. Everyone is aware of their praise or criticism. Therefore, if there are grievances, calamities will descend from the heavens. In recent years, there has been insufficient rainfall; I believe this is due to transgressing the principle of "usurping the constant sun" in the "Hong Fan." I am concerned that the officials are indulging in extravagance and waste, exceeding the prescribed standards, thereby influencing Your Majesty from the bottom up and inviting disasters.
Two years ago, there was an earthquake in the capital; the land cracked; the "crack" symbolizes a division of prestige, while the "earthquake" represents the disturbance of the people. The monarch should maintain calm to govern effectively, while the officials should respond to calmness with action; authority comes from top to bottom, and this is the norm of ritual. I am concerned that Your Majesty is burdened with overwhelming responsibilities, exhausted, unwilling to make decisions alone, and wanting to share power with everyone. However, authority must remain undivided, and virtues cannot be shared. The "Hong Fan" states, "If officials have absolute power and enjoy wealth and glory, it will harm the family and endanger the country." The heavens observe everything; not even the smallest detail will escape their notice.
Calamities have been frequent, having repeatedly signaled danger, but no changes have been seen, instead repeating the same mistakes. Even sages are not immune to making mistakes. I hope Your Majesty will seriously consider, learn from the ancient experiences and lessons, and ensure that the eight powers of punishment and virtue remain under the monarch's control. If blessings are widespread and government affairs are conducted according to established rituals, then as rituals are perfected, extravagance and waste will be reduced; if government affairs are in line with reason, disasters will not occur. In this way, the heavens will bless us, and disasters will not come upon us.
From the beginning, Emperor Guangwu especially believed in the predictions of good and bad fortune, and this tradition continued during the reigns of Emperors Xian and Su. After the revival of Emperor Guangwu, Confucian scholars were eager to study books on divination, mixed with some unreliable nonsense. Heng believed that divination was purely fictitious and not the practice of sages, so he wrote to the emperor, saying:
I have heard that sages, those sages, clearly use the calendar to calculate good and bad fortune, then use divination, the Nine Palaces, and Eight Trigrams to reinforce their judgment, so they can understand the principles of heaven and grasp the laws; this method is quite comprehensive. Sometimes they observe the movements of the stars to judge the reasons for temperature changes; sometimes they observe the results of divination with turtle shells and yarrow stalks, or listen to the predictions of shamans; the methods they rely on are varied.
Those predictions are made before events occur and are later validated, so wise people value these predictions, referring to them as oracle texts. When oracle texts first appeared, few people understood them. From the Han Dynasty replacing the Qin Dynasty, fighting and battles, eventually achieving victory, this was a significant event, yet no one at the time mentioned oracle texts. People like Xiahou Sheng and Sui Meng, although famous for their Taoist skills, did not include a single oracle text in their writings. Liu Xiang and his son were responsible for collating and editing classics; they checked the works of the Nine Schools and Ten Families, and there was no mention of oracle texts. It was not until after Emperor Cheng and Emperor Ai that people began to hear about oracle texts.
In the "Shangshu", it is said that Emperor Yao sent Gun to control the floods, but after nine years of failed efforts, Gun was killed and Yu succeeded him. However, the "Chunqiu Chenshu" states that "Gong Gong was in charge of the floods."
All the omens say that Huangdi defeated Chi You, but the "Shijing" states that "after Chi You's defeat, Yao received his mandate." The "Chunqiu Yuanming Bao" refers to Gongshu Ban and Mozi, whose deeds took place during the Warring States period, not the Spring and Autumn period.
The text also mentions "Yizhou," which was established during the Han Dynasty. The Three Fuzhou tombs referred to in the text, as well as the dynastic changes, can be used to calculate time. The dynastic changes predicted in the book continue until the reign of Emperor Cheng.
In a small book, the contradictory events recorded in it and the words of the sage cannot be inconsistent like this. This must surely have been fabricated by those hypocrites to deceive others for profit.
In the past, the official Jia Kui identified over thirty contradictions in the omens, and those who promote the omens cannot explain them clearly.
When Wang Mang seized power, the Han Dynasty faced a major disaster. This indicates that these omens were likely fabricated during the reigns of Emperor Ai and Emperor Ping.
Moreover, texts like "Heluo" and "Liu Yi" are well-established, and later generations cannot tamper with them. During the Yongyuan era, a man named Song Jing from Qinghe used calendrical calculations to predict a flood, even claiming to have seen a prophecy inscribed on a jade tablet.
Some individuals even abandoned their homes and retreated to the mountains to escape these supposed disasters. When these prophecies failed to materialize, they sought out past events to validate their predictions.
By the Yongjian era, the country had been reunified, yet they could not make any predictions.
These individuals deceive the public and mislead the rulers; their true nature and tactics are evident, yet no one intervenes.
Concepts like calendars, enfeoffment, the Nine Palaces, and wind directions can accurately predict fortune and misfortune. Yet, people refuse to learn and instead show enthusiasm for these unfounded omens.
This is like a painter who is unwilling to paint actual animals such as horses, cattle, dogs, and sheep, but prefers to paint fantastical creatures like ghosts and monsters, because real things are difficult to depict, while fictional things are inexhaustible. Therefore, these divination books should be put away and completely banned, to prevent confusion between truth and falsehood, and the classics will not be defiled. Later on, Zhang Heng served as a court official, and the emperor often called him to discuss state matters privately. Zhang Heng frequently participated in the discussions and expressed his opinions. One time, the emperor asked Zhang Heng, what do people in the world hate the most? The eunuchs feared Zhang Heng would reveal their wrongdoings, so they stared at him, and Zhang Heng cleverly sidestepped the question. The eunuchs were worried that Zhang Heng would eventually become a threat to them, so they conspired against him. Zhang Heng always thought about how to protect himself, feeling that fortune and misfortune were unpredictable and hard to foresee, so he wrote a piece called "Thoughts on Mystery" to convey his sentiments. In the piece, it says: "Looking up to the wisdom of ancient sages, never deviating from their teachings. Neither residing in the realm of benevolence nor pursuing the path of righteousness. Concealing my true self to remain forever bright, enduring like the sun and moon. Cultivating the sincerity of my heart, admiring the integrity of ancient people. Upright in my actions and following the rules, adhering to principles without faltering. Focusing my thoughts on the future, with a resolute heart like a knot. Demonstrating my character through my actions, wearing a glowing ornament and a jade branch. Adorning myself with the autumn flowers of delicate orchids, embellished with river reeds. Beauty accumulates in folds without tearing, maintaining a distant and unblemished appearance. Radiating unmatched grace and beauty, not valuing the fleeting trends of the moment. Displaying my glory without being seen, spreading my fragrance without being smelled. Finding solace in this modest space, not daring to slack off and neglect diligence. Fortunate to receive the blessings of the two eights, rejoicing in the prosperity of Fu Shuo; cherishing the remnants of past virtues, trembling at the rise of future stars. Why am I walking alone in loneliness, standing alone without companions? Feeling the special nesting of mythical birds, mourning the rarity of kindred spirits."
Zhang Heng became a court official, and the emperor often had him participate in secret meetings. One day, the emperor once asked him, "What do the common people dislike the most?" The eunuchs, fearing that Zhang Heng would expose their secrets, shot him fierce glares. Zhang Heng was very clever and quickly came up with an excuse to dodge the question. Despite this, the eunuchs were still wary of him and plotted against him. Zhang Heng felt quite troubled and thought about how to safeguard himself. He felt that life's ups and downs were too hard to predict, so he penned a work titled "Thoughts on Mystery" to share his emotions. In this piece, he wrote: (original poem excerpt)
Alas, so what if I can't get along with them? I'm worried about counterfeits posing as the real deal. They only believed me after opening "The Golden Knot." Seeing that most folks are pretty biased, I'm afraid that sticking to justice will endanger my own safety. Having made mistakes due to being misled in the past, who can talk to me properly? I'm worried and confused, unable to make sense of things. I hope to do my best to uphold justice, even if it means staying broke. I tried to carve an elephant as if it were a fierce tiger, but ended up stuck in a desolate place. Perhaps this is the only way to deal with it; anyway, I will die eventually. The world keeps changing, and people just throw rules out the window. Precious Xiao Ai is kept in a beautiful box, yet people say that orchids and grass are not fragrant. They turn their backs on Xi Shi and won't marry her, yet they use a gorgeous box to carry vulgar playthings. You can only fulfill your wishes by taking the road less traveled, while following the law brings disaster. The heavens and earth are eternal and infinite, yet my fate is so unpredictable! I will not compromise myself to conform to the world, just like not being able to find a boat by the river. I don’t want to be charming or alluring; that’s not what I’m after. I'm wearing a classy suit and draped in robes of honor. Using honesty and integrity as a belt, and skill as decoration. My talents and creations are like fine jade, with a sweet, lingering sound. I’ve gotten too comfortable and distracted by pleasure, and my talents have suffered because of it. Thinking myself clever and showing off, but as annoying as a magpie's call. I dream of two bountiful harvests a year, but only end up with frost from the White Dew. Time flies, eras change; who can keep up with me? Alas, jealousy and slander are just too much to handle. I want to take a page from Han Xin's book and run, worried that I’ll end up with nothing, and sticking around will just lead to rot.
Alas, the world is so unpredictable! I stick to my principles, but I always run into obstacles. Those hypocrites thrive while I am misunderstood by my brothers; thankfully, "Jin Teng" vouches for my integrity. However, in this world, honest people often go unappreciated, while flatterers are rewarded. I feel frustrated and long to confide in someone, but I can't find anyone who understands. I can only silently cling to my beliefs, refusing to change even in the face of poverty and hardship. I try to adapt to society, but I keep facing setbacks, ultimately leading to stagnation. I can only scrape by in the margins until the end of my days. Society is in decline, and people only chase after immediate gains, abandoning traditional moral standards. Valuable qualities go unrecognized, while people admire superficiality and overlook genuine beauty. I abide by the rules, yet I am punished, while opportunists achieve their goals. The universe is eternal, but life's circumstances are ever-changing. I refuse to compromise my values for hypocrites, nor will I pretend to appease others. I long for a beautiful love, but I don't actively seek it. I dress appropriately and act humbly and politely. I present myself with honesty and kindness, hoping to showcase my talents. My works are exquisite and influential, yet I bury my talents in the comfort of indulgence. I was overconfident, but it only backfired. I yearn for success, but I keep encountering setbacks. Time goes by, yet I remain in obscurity. I feel lonely and helpless, even contemplating fleeing this place of turmoil. But I fear that I’ll end up with regrets and accomplish nothing.
In my heart, I still feel indecisive, so I come to this crossroads to share my innermost feelings. Wenjun read my fortune, and the result of the divination was to make a quick escape to save my reputation. I traveled over mountains and hills, spreading news like the wind. Two women were touched by the majestic mountains; some even froze to death, but did not change their minds. Though the sky is high, it offers its protection; who says my journey isn't easy? I keep striving without rest, step by step climbing the towering peaks. I worry that the divination results are mixed, so I use tortoise shells for divination to observe good and bad luck. I encountered the proud bird of Jiugao, resenting the failure of my past ideas. I look up at the sky away from the world, mourning in the darkness. The eagles fiercely compete for their prey, while I remain pure and honorable. You harbor resentment towards the mysterious bird; only by returning to your mother can you find peace.
The result of the divination is favorable, without any regrets; I pack up my belongings and prepare to set off. In the morning, I wash in the clear fields, drying my hair in the morning light. I rinse with the crystal-clear water of Feiquan, enjoying the delicacy of stone mushrooms. Birds fly, fish leap; I am setting out for the Eight Wildernesses. I traverse the wilderness of Shaohao, asking Jumang for the direction of Sanqiu. What I seek is so pure, shedding dirt and burdens, feeling light in body and mind. I leisurely make my way to Penglai Fairy Island; even if the Ao fish thrashes about, it won't capsize. I gather celestial herbs in Yingzhou, temporarily seeking eternal life. I set off with the returning clouds; in the evening, I rest beneath the Fusang tree. I drink the sweet spring water of Qingcen Mountain, sustaining myself on river fish. I remember the dream beneath the Muhe tree, gazing at the peak of Kunlun Mountain. In the morning, I arrive at Tanggu, following Boyu to Jishan. I hold jade artifacts alongside the gods, worried that Fengshi might go back on his word.
I point to Changsha, choosing a remote path, hoping to find traces of Chonghua in the southern neighboring country. I lament that the two concubines stayed behind; they are left alone there. I gaze at Hengshan and Ahengshan, noticing the ruined tombs of the Lishi; I grieve that Huozheng lacks compassion, so I can only entrust his lonely soul on the hillside. I long for the distant lands, crossing Angzhou, feeling relaxed. I reach the top of Kunwu Mountain, the noon sun shining on me, resting in the hot weather. The sun is strong, the sky is fiery red, the river is rushing, the waves are surging. The warm wind is even hotter; I feel anxious, hard to bear. I wander alone outside, without friends; how much longer can I remain here?
Ah, looking at this wonderful time, I couldn't help but sigh; I really want to go have some fun in the west! In front, the god Zhurong waves his banner, and the Vermilion Bird flies with a flag in its beak; the sight is absolutely breathtaking! I’ve arrived in Guangdu, standing on the sacred Jianmu tree, feeling a little hesitant and unsure. It feels like I've surpassed the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan, flying over the Western Sea, riding the dragon fish of Wang Shi—what a thrill! I’ve heard this country has been around for a thousand years, and that's enough to keep me happy for ages, right?
Oh, think about the different customs all over the world; I’ve journeyed all the way from Ruzhou. Suddenly, I feel like I’ve been completely reborn, mixing with those elites. I set out from Baimen, heading east, wandering around Yuntai Mountain. The gentle flow of weak water brings to mind the warnings to women in "Guan Ju." I called on Feng Yi to help me clear the waterway and rowed a dragon boat across. While waiting for the Yellow Emperor to return, I feigned nonchalance as I waited. I asked the Yellow Emperor about fate, seeking to understand what the will of heaven truly is. Over time, I began to believe in some things and doubt others, none of which are found in the Six Classics. The traces of the gods are elusive and hard to track down; who can come up with a way to search for them? A sick cow becomes a tiger in death; even if it encounters the divine beast of Kunlun Mountain, it will be bitten to death. When a turtle dies and its body rots, the Zen system of the Shu State persists. Life and death are unpredictable; even the god of fate cannot foresee. The Dou family thrives in the Dai land, and the descendants inherit the throne without decline. The Han emperor's extravagance ultimately led to his death from worry, ending the family line. The Wei family officials lived in seclusion, only encountering Emperor Wu after three generations. Dong Zhongshu held an important position in the court at a young age but did not live in the Wangling. Alas, fortune and misfortune always follow one another, making people uneasy and at a loss. Mu Tianzi went against the will of heaven to please the cow; Shu Dai caused internal strife, and King You was killed. King Wen rejected Boyi; the eunuch held power, ultimately leading to later peace. People's judgments of right and wrong are often muddled; how can one distinguish between love and confusion? Ying Zheng interpreted the prophecies, guarded against the Xiongnu, prepared for external enemies, but ultimately erupted internally. Some people violate the tracks for bribery, travel while pregnant, and end up with a miscarriage. The two gods, Shen and Zao, manifested in speech, but falsely predicted water and fire, and randomly divined. The old man of Liang State worried about Liqiu; his son was killed because of this, and his parents could not recognize him, let alone in the underworld. Don’t torment yourself with sorrow, and don’t let endless worries make you sick. Heaven sees all and will aid those who are sincere. King Tang purified himself and prayed, offering abundant sacrifices to save the people. Duke Jing acted with caution in governing the country, as Venus approached the other stars. Wei Ke was upright and followed reason; the spirits and gods all cleared a path for him, leading to the decline of the Qin State. Jiu Yao ruled the world with virtue; his virtue thrived like trees in Ying and Liu. The end of the mulberry tree supports the growth of the roots, and after flowers and grass wither, they bloom again.
In conclusion, it's like the branches and leaves of a mulberry tree; although withered, they will grow back next year. The ups and downs of life, like everything in this world, are full of variables and difficult to predict. Sometimes we find it strange that when a cow dies, it somehow turns into a tiger, and when a turtle dies, the legacy of Shu continues. Life and death seem to follow no rules; even the god of fate cannot fully predict them. The rise and fall of emperors and generals is even more theatrical; the prosperity of the Dou family, the decline of the Han Dynasty, the seclusion of the Wei family, and the career of Dong Zhongshu are all like passing clouds, stirring up countless feelings. The likes and dislikes of people are also often unpredictable; fortune-telling and divination are just nonsense, unable to truly understand the will of heaven. So, instead of worrying about the unpredictable, it is better to face it calmly, keep a sincere and kind heart, like King Tang, who helps the people with heartfelt prayers, and like Wei Ke, who is upright and follows reason—that's how you can receive the blessings of heaven. In the end, everything will eventually return to nature, like the growth of a mulberry tree, endlessly.
Well, even if I don't say a word, there's no grudge, so where do I even go? How can I go back? Why not just go far and let my name get out there? Who can say that this timing can be held onto?
What does this mean? It probably means that even if you don't say anything, you haven't offended anyone, but you can't keep living like this. Where do you go? You can't go back! It's better to just go far and show everyone what I'm capable of; as for when success will come, who really knows?
I looked up, feeling empty inside, not knowing what to do. Trapped in this narrow place, I long to travel north. Thick ice lay beneath my feet, and the clear spring water was frozen, no longer flowing. The biting cold wind howled relentlessly past the peaks. Turtles withdrew into their shells, while snakes coiled their bodies. Fish pressed against each other, and birds flew to the trees but found no place to perch. I sat in the dim room, unable to suppress a sigh as my worries deepened. I resented living in such a humble place like Gaoyang and loathed Zhuanxu's residence for its darkness. I rushed around, wondering when this would end. I gazed at that distant, cold door, as if I had reached the end of the world. The fierce wind pursued me, while the birds drifted helplessly. I ran into a cave and traversed deep gorges. As I passed through dark and silent places, I felt pity for the lost souls buried here.
I hurriedly emerged from the underground in a panic, floating like a shapeless entity. I arrived in the dark wilderness of Youmi, unsure of which way to go. I quickly asked the Candle Dragon for help to guide me, after passing through Zhongshan and taking a brief rest. I gazed at the red banks of the Yaoxi River, recalling the experiences of my ancestor Jiang Yan in Jiankang. I visited the Queen Mother of the West, offering jade petals to quell my hunger; the magpies chirped happily, teasing me for moving too slowly. I invited the Jade Maidens of Mount Taihua and the fairy of Luopu. Each of them was stunning and enchanting, dazzling my eyes even more. Their slender waists, gorgeous attire, and slightly smiling vermilion lips all shone brightly. They gave me exquisite jade rings and pendants to express their affection. Though they were stunning and their gifts valuable, my heart was filled with lofty aspirations, leaving me unsatisfied. The two beauties, saddened by my rejection, sang poems in unison. The song went: Mist swirls between heaven and earth, flowers bloom abundantly; cranes call out, mandarin ducks sing in harmony; young girls are lost in thought; you are so beautiful and intelligent, yet you often forget about me. Ah, I hadn’t even had time to write an answer before hurriedly packing up and hitting the road. Just look at the towering Kunlun Mountains! And the rushing waters of the Ying River! I had the divine turtle carry me across the river, crossing a dragon-like bridge. I climbed up to the ancient city on Langfeng Terrace and rested on a bed of immortal trees. I feasted on dishes made from Yao grass and drank clear water. I asked Wu Xian to help me interpret my dreams, which turned out to be good omens. I aspire to continually improve my character on the right path, growing strong like a bountiful harvest. I look down at my roots and remember my hometown. I want to live quietly and naturally, right here in this simple, beautiful place.
Composing a response to the ode, yet not delaying, quickly preparing the carriage and setting off. Gazing at the towering Kunlun Mountains, overlooking the mighty Yangtze River. Bearing the sacred turtle upon the hill, spanning the flying beams of the dragon. Ascending the city of Zengcheng in the Langfeng wind, building a bed of immortality. Crafting cushions from delicate threads of jade, white water as a drink. Consulting the diviner to interpret dreams, signifying a promising start. Nurturing virtue at the core, embracing the good harvest as a gift. Now that you have achieved success, hold dear your roots, and cherish your old home. Living in peace and harmony, in tune with the times, residing in a sanctuary of purity and goodness.
Good morning, colleagues! Let's all work hard together! Thunder roars, lightning illuminates the night sky. Clouds gather, sleet falls on the ground. Ornate carriages, the royal carriage adorned with dragon motifs. The gods stand guard, and the troops are lined up neatly. I step into the carriage, sword by my side, my attire neat and gleaming. The coachman drives steadily, eight carriages galloping. Flags fluttering, the world whirls around. Looking back, my heart races with excitement, like water coming to a boil. How I envy the grandeur of the capital; it’s unforgettable! Green ornaments on the left, white ceremonial instruments on the right. Ahead is Changli holding a dust whisk, behind is Shuiheng in the shadows. Jibo commands the winds, bringing clarity to the sky. Cloud flags fluttering, jade phoenixes call. Ascending to the high clouds, passing through the layers, flying upwards. Flying slowly and steadily, shining brightly. I order the guards to open the palace gates, to pay respects to the Emperor at Qiong Palace. Listening to the nine-fold music, the atmosphere is grand and solemn. Handling state affairs according to the law, from start to finish, pondering deeply. Only through diligence can one achieve perfection; past events are sad, present events are worrying. As I gently strum the strings, the lingering notes echo, reciting "Nian Zai." I control my emotions, compose myself, and wait for the opportunity to soar. Setting off from the Purple Palace, arriving in the expansive realm. I order Wang Liang to drive the four horses, the carriage produces a crisp sound. I drive the carriage, hunting within the thick forest. Bending the bow, taking down the wolves. I observe the northern city walls, overcoming the River Drum Star. Riding the waters of the Milky Way, drifting among the clouds. Relying on the Arrogant Star and the Captivating Star, observing the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. The carriages and horses winding their way forward, the team vast and majestic. The sight is strange and dazzling. Breaking through the thunder, dancing with lightning. Soaring into the sky, boundless, all the way to the heavens above.
This journey is truly unforgettable! From the early morning departure to the arrival at our destination, the sights along the way left a lasting impression on me. The thunder, lightning, freezing rain, magnificent carriages, divine guardians, and speeding vehicles, along with the grand music in the palace, all made me feel like I was in a dreamlike world. And finally, soaring freely between the vast sky and earth filled my heart with peace. This journey is not just a trip, but a spiritual awakening.
This trip not only allowed me to experience the grandeur and solemnity of the scenes, but also filled me with longing for the magnificence of the capital and anticipation for future journeys. "Gently plucking the strings, the lingering notes sing of remembrance." This sentence has me reflecting endlessly, as if reminding me to cherish every moment, not to forget my original intentions, and to forge ahead.
Looking down from a high place, my hometown looks dim. My heart feels uneasy; I really want to go home! My heart keeps longing to turn back, and the car moves slowly. Even though I came out to enjoy myself, how can I possibly forget this longing in my heart? Out of the city gate, onto the sky road, riding the wind and swiftly gliding through the emptiness. Clouds and mist surround my wheels, and the wind gently moves my flag. The horses gallop, the scenery shifts unpredictably, and in the blink of an eye, I find myself back in the familiar streets and alleys.
I have put away my past love for pleasure and cast aside my reckless thoughts. I changed into simple clothing and wore modest ornaments. The writings are beautifully crafted, with beautiful things emerging endlessly. I ride the horse of the Six Arts, roaming through the realm of virtue. I compare the ancient texts to fishing nets, the teachings of Confucianism and Mohism to fish, catching fish to my heart's desire. I explore the laws of yin and yang changes, chanting the exquisite verses of the Book of Songs. I admire Zengzi's "Return to Farming" and hold the hermit of Liling in high regard. I have consistently upheld my principles from beginning to end. I take care every day, endeavoring to rectify my errors, afraid that I am not doing well enough. As long as my conscience is clear, even if no one understands me, I am without regret. I fortify my resolve through tranquility, accompanied by benevolence and righteousness, free and at ease. Why bother going far to understand the world's affairs without leaving home?
Xi said: The heavens endure, and time waits for no one; hoping for the Yellow River to clear only adds to worries. I long to journey far for my own enjoyment, to traverse the world, to transcend the ordinary, to leap and soar, following my heart's desires. Immortals are elusive, and cypress boats remain unremarkable, unwilling to soar. The tall pine trees are towering; who can leave? I immerse myself in distant journeys, allowing my spirit to take flight. I retract thoughts of distant travel, return to the mysterious realm, and obtain what I desire. What else is there to worry about?
In the first year of Yonghe, I was appointed Prime Minister of the Hejian Kingdom. At that time, the king was indulgent and disregarded the law, and many powerful factions were causing unrest. After taking office, I enforced strict governance and reformed the laws, conducting discreet investigations into the identities of the rebels and capturing them all, stabilizing the situation. After three years of service in Hejian, I submitted a request for retirement, and the court called upon me to serve as a Minister of Personnel. In the fourth year of Yonghe, I passed away at the age of sixty-two.
Zhang Heng wrote a book called "The Exegesis of the Zhou Officialdom." Cui Yuan thought this book was no different from what other Confucian scholars had written. He also tried to follow Confucius's line of thought and complete the missing parts of the "Tuanyi" and "Xiangzhuan" in the Book of Changes, but he was unable to do so. He wrote poems, fu, inscriptions, and seven-character verses, as well as "Ling Xian," "Ying Xian," "Qi Bian," "Xun Gao," "Xuan Tu," and so on, a total of thirty-two pieces.
During the Yongchu period, officials Liu Zhen and Liu Zaozhi were collaborating at the Eastern Pavilion to compile the "Records of the Han" and organize the Han Dynasty's ritual system. They invited Zhang Heng to participate in the discussion, but unfortunately both of them passed away. Zhang Heng often lamented this and hoped to see the project completed. Later, Zhang Heng became a court attendant and requested in a memorial to be in charge of the work at the Eastern Pavilion, to organize the remaining documents and strive to complete them. He also identified over ten discrepancies between the historical records of Sima Qian and Ban Gu and the classics. He believed that Wang Mang's biography should focus solely on the events of his usurpation, while the chronicles of disasters and prodigies should be included in the annals of Wang Mang's empress. He also suggested that during the reign of Emperor Gengshi, people had little expectation of him, and Emperor Guangwu was initially only his subordinate before becoming emperor, so Emperor Gengshi's reign should be placed before that of Emperor Guangwu. He submitted these opinions in several memorials, but they were not accepted. Many of his later works included inaccuracies in historical material, which caused regret among contemporaries.
The article comments: Cui Yuan praised Zhang Heng as saying, "Numbers and techniques encompass heaven and earth, creating things that rival nature." This assessment is truly fitting! Zhang Heng deduced the laws of the universe, with all things imbued with his wisdom; he applied his intellect to study all things, and nothing can compare to his wisdom. Thus, we recognize that his profound thoughts represent the pinnacle of human wisdom. The book says: "Only when moral cultivation reaches its peak can one reach the highest realm, and skillful artistry can only be considered secondary." Can Heng's insights be confined to mere technical skill? How could his moral integrity ever be diminished!
The article ends by praising: The principles of the Three Powers are interconnected, yet human understanding is frequently clouded. Zhang Heng deduced the principles of forms and numbers and explored profound truths. Without deep contemplation, who could possibly elucidate these truths?
