The Beauty of the Three Dynasties Condensed into a Single Chapter: A Deep Interpretation of "Yan Yuan Asking about Governing the State" in the Analects of Confucius, Weilinggong
This article provides a rigorous analysis of the "Yan Yuan wen weibang" passage in the *Analects*, examining Confucius’s political pedagogy—centered on the calendar of the Xia, the carriage of the Shang, the ceremonial cap of the Zhou, and the music of Shao—as a synthesis of the essential wisdom of the Three Dynasties. By situating these practices within the broader framework of Confucian statecraft, the study elucidates the idealized civilizational paradigm of the tradition and the enduring philosophical significance of its transmission.
2. Why Choose the Carriage of the Yin Rather than the Zhou$32
This question concerns the Master's profound understanding of the cultural characteristics of the Three Dynasties.
The Master gave a classic summary of Three Dynasties culture in The Analects: Ba Yi:
The Master said: "Zhou looked back at the two previous dynasties; how rich and colorful it was in culture! I follow the Zhou."
The Master admired the "rich and colorful culture" of the Zhou and said he would "follow the Zhou." Yet, in his governing strategy, he chose the Yin carriage. Is this contradictory$33
No. The Master "followed the Zhou" regarding the overall ritual-music civilization, as the Zhou had the most complete system. However, in specific utilitarian items—such as carriages—the Master believed the rustic style of the Yin was more desirable.
Why$34
Because as utilitarian objects, excessive decoration is a waste and the beginning of unhealthy tendencies. The Master's other words in The Analects: Ba Yi help explain:
The Master said: "In rituals, rather than extravagance, I prefer thrift; in funerals, rather than excessive ease, I prefer deep sorrow."
If forced to choose between extravagance and thrift in rituals, the Master chose thrift. Similarly, for carriages, he chose simplicity. Because the primary function of a carriage is utility—transporting people and goods—not displaying status. The Yin carriage embodies this spirit of "valuing function over show."