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.
Chapter Six: Banish the Songs of Zheng—The Discrimination of Sounds and the Defense of the State
1. The Turn of Strategy: From "Adoption" to "Banishment"
The first four items (Xia calendar, Yin carriage, Zhou cap, Shao music) were "adoptions"—selecting essences. From the fifth item, the Master turned to "banishment"—discarding harmful elements.
"Banish the songs of Zheng" (fang zheng sheng). The word "banish" (fang) is heavy. The Master saw the songs of Zheng as harmful and needing active clearance.
2. Why Are the Songs of Zheng "Licentious"$44
The Master said "The songs of Zheng are licentious" (zheng sheng yin). Here, "licentious" (yin) means "excessive," "indulgent," or "crossing the boundaries."
These songs were captivating and melodious, easily moving the senses. However, this appeal was built upon indulging human desires, pandering to low tastes, and causing people to forget ritual and duty. It is the "music of a chaotic age."
3. How Can Sound Destroy a State$45
Music and the human heart are deeply connected. The songs of Zheng, through their winding and lingering melodies, stimulate desires and emotions, causing people to indulge in sensory enjoyment. This dissolves the character of seriousness, moderation, and correctness nurtured by ritual music.
Once people become accustomed to the stimulation of licentious sounds, they lose the ability to appreciate the simple and correct music. This is what the Master meant by "The songs of Zheng confuse the elegant music."