First Minister Shun asked Emperor Yao:
—What virtues does the heavenly sovereign exhibit?
The Emperor replied:
“I do not mock the helpless, I do not turn away from the poor. I mourn the dead, rejoice at newborns and feel sorry for women.
“Well,” said Shun, “that’s wonderful, but it’s not enough for true greatness.”
- What do you think I should do? - asked the emperor.
“A ruler possessing heavenly perfection,” answered Shun, “is at peace, and this sublime peace sets everything in motion.” The sky is high, the Earth is calm. The sun and moon shine, and the seasons follow each other, just as day and night follow each other.
- Oh, how fussy I was! - exclaimed the emperor. “I was looking for unity with people, but you strive for unity with Heaven!”
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru