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92
THE Lî Kî.
BK. I.

with the Pointer of the Northern Bushel should be reared aloft (in the centre of the host):—all to excite and direct the fury (of the troops)[1]. 9. There are rules for advancing and retreating; there are the various arrangements on the left and the right, each with its (proper) officer to look after it.

2. 10. With the enemy who has slain his father, one should not live under the same heaven. With the enemy who has slain his brother, one should never have his sword to seek (to deal vengeance). With the enemy who has slain his intimate friend, one should not live in the same state (without seeking to slay him).

3. 11. Many ramparts in the country round and near (a capital) are a disgrace to its high ministers and great officers[2]. Where the wide and open country is greatly neglected and uncultivated, it is a disgrace to the officers (in charge of it).

4. 12. When taking part in a sacrifice, one should not show indifference. 13. When sacrificial robes are worn out, they should be burnt: sacrificial vessels in the same condition should be buried, as should the tortoise-shell and divining stalks, and a victim that has died. 14. All who take part with the ruler in a sacrifice must themselves remove the stands

(of their offerings).


  1. "The Red Bird" was the name of the seven constellations of the southern quarter of the Zodiac; "the Dark Warrior" embraced those of the northern; "the Azure Dragon," those of the eastern; and "the Tiger," those of the western. These flags would show the direction of the march, and seem to suggest that all heaven was watching the progress of the expedition.
  2. As showing that they had not been able to keep invaders at a distance.