1
八年春正月乙亥，陳遣散騎常侍袁雅、兼通直散騎常侍周止水來聘。
In the first month of spring of the eighth year, on the day yihai, Chen sent Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Yuan Ya and Acting Direct Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Zhou Zhishui on a goodwill mission.
2
二月庚子，鎮星入東井。 辛酉，陳人寇硤州。
In the second month, on the day gengzi, Saturn entered the Eastern Well constellation. On the day xinyou, Chen raided Xia Province.
3
三月辛未，上柱國、隴西郡公李詢卒。 壬申，以成州刺史姜須達為會州總管。 甲戌，遣兼散騎常侍程尚賢、兼通直散騎常侍韋惲使于陳。 戊寅，詔曰：
In the third month, on the day xinwei, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Longxi County Li Xun died. On the day renshen, Jiang Xuda, Prefect of Cheng Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Hui Province. On the day jiaxu, Acting Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Cheng Shangxian and Acting Direct Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Wei Yun were dispatched as envoys to Chen. On the day wuyin, an edict stated:
4
昔有苗不賓，唐堯薄伐，孫皓僭虐，晉武行誅。 有陳竊據江表，逆天暴物。 朕初受命，陳頊尚存，思欲教之以道，不以龔行為令，往來修睦，望其遷善。 時日無幾，釁惡已聞。 厚納叛亡，侵犯城戍，勾吳、閩越，肆厥殘忍。 于時王師大舉，將一車書，陳頊反地收兵，深懷震懼，責躬請約，俄而致殞。 矜其喪禍，仍詔班師。
In ancient times the Miao would not submit, so Tang Yao launched a restrained punitive campaign; Sun Hao ruled with usurped cruelty, and Jin Wu put him to death. Chen has seized the lands south of the Yangzi, defying Heaven and ravaging the people. When I first received the Mandate, Chen Xu was still alive. I wished to guide him by the Way and did not issue an order for a punitive expedition. We exchanged envoys to cultivate harmony, hoping he would turn toward goodness. Before long, reports of provocation and wickedness were already reaching us. They lavishly welcomed defectors and fugitives, violated frontier garrisons, and together with Wu and Minyue indulged their cruelty. At that time the imperial army launched a major campaign, intending to unify the realm under one law and one script. Chen Xu returned territory and recalled his troops, deeply shaken and terrified. He blamed himself and requested a pact, and soon afterward died. Out of pity for his calamity and death, I still ordered the army to withdraw.
5
叔寶承風，因求繼好，載佇克念，共敦行李。 每見珪璪入朝，輶軒出使，何嘗不殷勤曉喻，戒以惟新。 而狼子之心，出而彌野，威侮五行，怠棄三正，誅翦骨肉，夷滅才良。 據手掌之地，恣溪壑之險，劫奪閭閻，資產俱竭，驅蹙內外，勞役弗已。 徵責女子，擅造宮室，日增月益，止足無期，帷薄嬪嬙，有踰萬數。 寶衣玉食，窮奢極侈，淫聲樂飲，俾晝作夜。 斬直言之客，滅無罪之家，剖人之肝，分人之血。 欺天造惡，祭鬼求恩，歌儛衢路，酣醉宮閫。 盛粉黛而執干戈，曳羅綺而呼警蹕，躍馬振策，從旦至昏，無所經營，馳走不息。 負甲持仗，隨逐徒行，追而不及，即加罪譴。 自古昏亂，罕或能比。 介士武夫，飢寒力役，筋髓罄於土木，性命俟於溝渠。 君子潛逃，小人得志，家家隱殺戮，各各任聚歛。 天災地孽，物怪人妖，衣冠鉗口，道路以目。 傾心翹足，誓告於我，日月以冀，文奏相尋。 重以背德違言，搖蕩疆埸，巴峽之下，海澨已西，江北、江南，為鬼為蜮。 死隴窮發掘之酷，生居極攘奪之苦，抄掠人畜，斷截樵蘇，市井不立，農事廢寢。 歷陽、廣陵，窺覦相繼，或謀圖城邑，或劫剝吏人，晝伏夜遊，鼠竄狗盜。 彼則羸兵敝卒，來必就擒，此則重門設險，有勞藩捍。 天之所覆，無非朕臣，每關聽覽，有懷傷惻。 有梁之國，我南藩也，其君入朝，潛相招誘，不顧朕恩。 士女深迫脅之悲，城府致空虛之歎。 非直朕居人上，懷此無忘，既而百辟屢以為言，兆庶不堪其請，豈容對而不誅，忍而不救！
Chen Shubao, riding that momentum, then sought to continue friendly relations. Both sides waited in hopes of renewed harmony and together cultivated diplomatic exchange. Whenever I saw jade tokens and seals arrive for audience, or envoys' chariots depart on missions, how could I not earnestly instruct and admonish them, urging them to make a fresh start? Yet the heart of a wolf cub, once unleashed, grows only wilder. He has insulted the five phases, abandoned the three correct beginnings, executed his kinsmen, and wiped out men of talent and virtue. On land no larger than a palm he indulges gorge-deep greed; he plunders within the wards until every household's wealth is exhausted; he drives and harasses inside and out, forcing corvée labor without cease. He levied women as tribute and built palaces on his own authority, adding to them month after month with no end in sight. Behind the curtains his consorts and concubines number more than ten thousand. Precious robes and jade fare, the utmost extravagance and excess; licentious music and drunken revelry, turning day into night. He cut down guests who spoke blunt truth, destroyed families guilty of no crime, cut open men's livers, and divided men's blood. He deceived Heaven and created wickedness, sacrificed to ghosts to beg for favor, sang and danced in the streets, and drank himself senseless within the palace gates. Beddecked in powder and rouge he bore weapons; trailing silks and brocades he shouted for the imperial guard to clear the way; he spurred his horse and whipped it from dawn to dusk, attending to nothing but relentless riding without rest. Soldiers bearing armor and weapons had to follow on foot in his train; if they could not keep up they were immediately punished. Since antiquity, among the deluded and chaotic, few can compare with him. Common warriors, hungry, cold, and forced into labor — their sinews and marrow are exhausted in earthworks and timber, their lives await the ditch and culvert. Gentlefolk flee in hiding while petty men get their way; in every household slaughter is concealed, and each man abuses his power to levy exactions. Heaven-sent disasters and earth-born portents, strange things and human omens — men of rank clench their mouths shut, and on the road people dare only look with their eyes. With all their heart they stretch their necks and stand on tiptoe, swearing appeals to me; day after day they hope, and written petitions follow one after another. Add to this betrayal of virtue and violation of promises, shaking the borders — below the Ba gorges and west of the sea shore, north and south of the Yangzi, people have become ghosts and goblins. After death they suffer the cruelty of looted tombs; while alive they endure the utmost pain of plunder and seizure. Livestock are seized, firewood cut off, markets no longer stand, and farming is abandoned. At Liyang and Guangling they cast greedy eyes one after another; some plot to seize cities, others rob officials and people. By day they hide, by night they roam, like rats scurrying and dogs stealing. When their weakened troops and worn-out soldiers come, they are always captured; yet here our heavily guarded passes and defenses require constant labor from frontier defenders. All that Heaven covers, none are not my subjects; whenever these matters reach my ears, my heart is full of anguish. The State of Liang is my southern frontier dependency; when its ruler came to court, Chen secretly tried to entice him and showed no regard for my grace. Scholars and women suffer the grief of forced oppression; frontier cities and districts echo with lament over emptiness. It is not only that I, occupying the position above others, harbor this without forgetting — repeatedly the hundred officials have urged this upon me, and the myriad people cannot bear to plead any longer. How could I face this and not punish? How could I endure it and not rescue them!
6
近日秋始，謀欲弔人。 益部樓船，盡令東騖，便有神龍數十，騰躍江流，引伐罪之師，向金陵之路，船住則龍止，船行則龍去，四日之內，三軍皆覩，豈非蒼旻愛人，幽明展事，降神先路，協贊軍威！ 以上天之靈，助戡定之力，便可出師授律，應機誅殄，在斯舉也，永清吳、越。 其將士糧仗，水陸資須，期會進止，一準別勑。
Recently, as autumn began, I planned to comfort the people. The tower ships of Yizhou were all ordered eastward; then several tens of divine dragons leaped and soared upon the river currents, leading the army that would chastise the guilty toward the road to Jinling — when the boats stopped the dragons stopped, when the boats moved the dragons departed. Within four days the whole army witnessed it. Is this not Heaven loving the people, spirits and men revealing their intent, sending gods ahead to pave the way and joining to support military might! With Heaven's numinous aid and the force to pacify and settle, we may now dispatch the army and hand down the law, responding to the moment to destroy them — in this single action Wu and Yue will forever be cleared. As for rations and weapons for officers and soldiers, supplies for land and water, rendezvous, advance and halt — all shall follow separate edicts.
7
秋八月丁未，河北諸州饑，遣吏部尚書蘇威賑恤之。
In autumn, the eighth month, on the day dingwei, the northern Hebei provinces suffered famine; Minister of Personnel Su Wei was dispatched to give relief.
8
九月丁丑，宴南征諸將，頒賜各有差。 癸巳，嘉州言龍見。
In the ninth month, on the day dingchou, a banquet was held for the generals of the southern campaign and rewards were distributed according to rank. On the day guisi, Jia Province reported a dragon sighting.
9
冬十月己亥，太白出西方。 己未，置淮南行臺省於壽春，以晉王廣為尚書令。 辛酉，陳遣兼散騎常侍王琬、兼通直散騎常侍許善心來聘，拘留不遣。 甲子，將伐陳，有事於太廟。 命晉王廣、秦王俊、清河公楊素並為行軍元帥，以伐陳。 於是晉王廣出六合，秦王俊出襄陽，清河公楊素出信州，荊州刺史劉仁恩出江陵，宜陽公王世積出蘄春，新義公韓擒虎出廬江，襄邑公賀若弼出吳州，落叢公燕榮出東海，合總管九十，兵五十一萬八千，皆受晉王節度。 東接滄海，西拒巴、蜀，旌旗舟楫，橫亘數千里。 曲赦陳國。 有星孛于牽牛。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jihai, the Bright Metal star appeared in the west. On the day jiwei, a provisional Branch Secretariat was established at Shouyang for the Huainan region; Prince of Jin Yang Guang was made Director of the Department of State Affairs. On the day xinyou, Chen sent Acting Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Wang Wan and Acting Direct Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Xu Shanshan on a goodwill mission; they were detained and not sent back. On the day jiazi, as the campaign against Chen was to begin, sacrifices were performed at the Imperial Ancestral Temple. Prince of Jin Yang Guang, Prince of Qin Yang Jun, and Duke of Qinghe Yang Su were all appointed supreme commanders of the campaign against Chen. Thereupon Yang Guang advanced from Liuhe, Yang Jun from Xiangyang, Yang Su from Xin Province, Governor of Jing Province Liu Ren'en from Jiangling, Duke of Yiyang Wang Shiji from Qichun, Duke of Xinyi Han Qihu from Lujiang, Duke of Xiangyi He Ruo from Wu Province, and Duke of Luocong Yan Rong from the Eastern Sea — ninety commanders in all with 518,000 troops, all under Yang Guang's command. Eastward they reached the eastern sea, westward they opposed Ba and Shu; banners and boats stretched across several thousand li. A general amnesty was granted to Chen. A comet appeared at the Ox constellation.
10
十一月丁卯，車駕餞師。 詔購陳叔寶位上柱國、萬戶公。 乙亥，行幸定城，陳師誓眾。 丙子，幸河東。
In the eleventh month, on the day dingmao, the emperor personally saw off the army. An edict offered a reward for Chen Shubao's head: the rank of Senior General of the First Rank and the title of Duke with ten thousand households. On the day yihai, the emperor traveled to Dingcheng; the Chen army rallied its troops. On the day bingzi, the emperor went to Hedong.
11
十二月庚子，至自河東。
In the twelfth month, on the day gengzi, the emperor returned from Hedong.
12
九年春正月己巳，白虹夾日。 辛未，賀若弼拔陳京口，韓擒虎拔陳南豫州。 癸酉，以尚書右僕射虞慶則為右衞大將軍。 丙子，賀若弼敗陳師於蔣山，獲其將蕭摩訶。 韓擒虎進師入建鄴，獲其將任蠻奴，[1]獲陳主叔寶。 陳國平，合州三十，[2]郡一百，縣四百。 癸巳，遣使持節巡撫之。
In the first month of spring of the ninth year, on the day jisi, a white rainbow flanked the sun. On the day xinwei, He Ruo captured Chen's Jingkou; Han Qihu captured Chen's Southern Yuzhou. On the day guiyou, Yu Qingze, Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs, was appointed General of the Right Guard. On the day bingzi, He Ruo defeated Chen's army at Mount Jiang and captured its general Xiao Mohe. Han Qihu pressed his army into Jiankang, capturing its general Ren Mannu,[1] and capturing Chen's ruler Chen Shubao. Chen was pacified, comprising thirty provinces, one hundred commanderies, and four hundred counties. On the day guisi, envoys bearing credentials were dispatched to tour and reassure the region.
13
二月乙未，廢淮南行臺省。 丙申，制五百家為鄉，正一人； 百家為里，長一人。 丁酉，以襄州總管韋世康為安州總管。
In the second month, on the day yiwei, the provisional Huainan Branch Secretariat was abolished. On the day bingshen, a regulation was issued: five hundred households form a district, with one district chief; one hundred households form a lane, with one lane chief. On the day dingyou, Wei Shikang, Commander-in-Chief of Xiang Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of An Province.
14
夏四月己亥，幸驪山，親勞旋師。 乙巳，三軍凱入，獻俘於太廟。 拜晉王廣為太尉。 庚戌，上御廣陽門，宴將士，頒賜各有差。 辛亥，大赦天下。 己未，以陳都官尚書孔範，散騎常侍王瑳、王儀，御史中丞沈觀等，邪佞於其主，以致亡滅，皆投之邊裔。 辛酉，以信州總管楊素為荊州總管，吏部侍郎宇文㢸為刑部尚書，宗正少卿楊异為工部尚書。 壬戌，詔曰：
In summer, the fourth month, on the day jihai, the emperor traveled to Mount Li and personally welcomed the returning army. On the day yisi, the triumphant army entered the capital and presented captives at the Imperial Ancestral Temple. Prince of Jin Yang Guang was appointed Grand Commandant. On the day gengxu, the emperor ascended Guangyang Gate, banquetted the officers and soldiers, and distributed rewards according to rank. On the day xinhai, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm. On the day jiwei, Kong Fan, Minister of Justice of Chen, Wang Shao and Wang Yi, Attendants-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue, and Vice Censor-in-Chief Shen Guan and others — wicked flatterers to their ruler who thereby brought about ruin — were all sent to the remote borderlands. On the day xinyou, Yang Su, Commander-in-Chief of Xin Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province; Yuwen Bi, Vice Minister of Personnel, was appointed Minister of Justice; Yang Yi, Vice Director of the Imperial Clan Court, was appointed Minister of Works. On the day renchen, an edict stated:
15
往以吳、越之野，羣黎塗炭，干戈方用，積習未寧。 今率土大同，含生遂性，太平之法，方可流行。 凡我臣僚，澡身浴德，開通耳目，宜從茲始。 喪亂已來，緬將十載，君無君德，臣失臣道，父有不慈，子有不孝，兄弟之情或薄，夫婦之義或違，長幼失序，尊卑錯亂。 朕為帝王，志存愛養，時有臻道，不敢寧息。 內外職位，遐邇黎人，家家自修，人人克念，使不軌不法，蕩然俱盡。 兵可立威，不可不戢，刑可助化，不可專行。 禁衞九重之餘，鎮守四方之外，戎旅軍器，皆宜停罷。 代路既夷，羣方無事，武力之子，俱可學文，人間甲仗，悉皆除毀。 有功之臣，降情文藝，家門子姪，各守一經，令海內翕然，高山仰止。 京邑庠序，爰及州縣，生徒受業，升進於朝，未有灼然明經高第。 此則教訓不篤，考課未精，明勒所由，隆茲儒訓。 官府從宦，丘園素士，心迹相表，寬弘為念，勿為跼促，乖我皇猷。
Formerly in the lands of Wu and Yue the multitudes were battered in hardship; weapons were just then in use, and deep habits had not been settled. Now the whole realm is united; all living beings follow their nature; the laws of peace and order may at last be put into practice. All my officials — cleanse body and cultivate virtue, open ears and eyes; this should begin from now. Since the age of chaos and ruin, nearly ten years have passed: rulers lacked the virtue of rulers, ministers lost the way of ministers; fathers were unkind, sons unfilial; brotherly affection sometimes grew thin, conjugal duty sometimes was broken; elders and juniors lost proper order, high and low were confused. I as emperor am resolved on cherishing and nurturing the people; whenever there is a path to attain the Way, I dare not rest in ease. Inside and outside, in every office, near and far among the common people — let every household cultivate itself, every person keep the Way in mind, so that all that is irregular and unlawful may be swept away entirely. Arms may establish awe, but cannot fail to be sheathed; punishments may assist in transformation, but cannot be applied exclusively. Beyond the ninefold inner palaces, at the garrison posts guarding the four quarters, military travel and weapons should all be halted and disbanded. Now that the routes of the age are level and the regions have no affairs, men of martial force may all study letters; all armor and weapons among the people should be destroyed. Ministers who achieved merit should lower their martial pride and take up the arts; sons and nephews of noble houses should each keep to one classic, until within the realm all look up in harmony to a high peak. In the capital's schools, and extending to the provinces and counties, students receiving instruction should advance to court — yet there have been no clearly outstanding graduates who mastered the classics and ranked at the top. This means instruction has not been earnest and examination has not been rigorous; clearly decree the means by which to exalt Confucian teaching. Those in office and those serving from home, in hills and gardens — whether in heart or in conduct they show themselves; keep broadness in mind, do not be cramped and narrow, and do not betray my imperial design.
16
朕君臨區宇，於茲九載，開直言之路，披不諱之心，形於顏色，勞於興寢。 自頃逞藝論功，昌言乃眾，推誠切諫，其事甚疎。 公卿士庶，非所望也，各啟至誠，匡茲不逮。 見善必進，有才必舉，無或噤默，退有後言。 頒告天下，咸悉此意。
I have ruled the realm now for nine years, opening the road to blunt speech and laying bare a heart that hides nothing; this shows on my face and wears upon my rising and sleeping. Recently, when people vaunt their skills and discuss merit, boastful words are many; sincere and earnest remonstrance is very rare. This is not what I expect of dukes, ministers, scholars, and commoners; each should bring forth utmost sincerity to correct what I have not yet achieved. When you see good, advance it; when there is talent, promote it; do not hold silent and then speak ill afterward. Proclaim this throughout the realm so all may understand this intent.
17
閏月甲子，以安州總管韋世康為信州總管。 丁丑，頒木魚符於於總管、刺史，雌一雄一。 己卯，以吏部尚書蘇威為尚書右僕射。
In the intercalary month, on the day jiazi, Wei Shikang, Commander-in-Chief of An Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xin Province. On the day dingchou, wooden fish tally tokens were issued to commanders-in-chief and prefects, one female and one male. On the day jimao, Su Wei, Minister of Personnel, was appointed Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs.
18
六月乙丑，以荊州總管楊素為納言。 丁丑，以吏部侍郎盧愷為禮部尚書。
In the sixth month, on the day yichou, Yang Su, Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province, was appointed Chief Adviser to the Throne. On the day dingchou, Lu Kai, Vice Minister of Personnel, was appointed Minister of Rites.
19
時朝野物議，咸願登封。 秋七月丙午，詔曰：「豈可命一將軍，除一小國，遐邇注意，便謂太平。 以薄德而封名山，用虛言而干上帝，非朕攸聞。 而今以後，言及封禪，宜即禁絕。」
At the time, opinion throughout court and countryside alike favored holding the feng and shan rites. In autumn, the seventh month, on the day bingwu, an edict stated: "How can one, by ordering a single general to subdue a small state, with all eyes near and far upon us, at once declare the age at peace? To ascend the sacred mountains with meager virtue, and to importune High Heaven with empty words — this is not what I have heard of. Henceforth, whenever feng and shan are mentioned, it shall at once be forbidden."
20
八月壬戌，以廣平王雄為司空。
In the eighth month, on the day renxu, Prince of Guangping Yang Xiong was appointed Minister of Works.
21
冬十一月壬辰，考使定州刺史豆盧通等上表，請封禪，上不許。 庚子，以右衞大將軍虞慶則為右武候大將軍，右領軍將軍李安為右領軍大將軍。 甲寅，降囚徒。
In winter, the eleventh month, on the day renchen, the inspection commissioners led by Prefect of Ding Province Dou Lu Tong and others submitted a memorial requesting the feng and shan rites; the emperor refused. On the day gengzi, Yu Qingze, General of the Right Guard, was appointed General of the Right Martial Guard; Li An, General of the Right Rear Guard, was appointed General of the Right Rear Guard. On the day jiayin, convicts were granted reduction of sentence.
22
十二月甲子，詔曰：「朕祗承天命，清蕩萬方。 百王衰敝之後，兆庶澆浮之日，聖人遺訓，掃地俱盡，制禮作樂，今也其時。 朕情存古樂，深思雅道。 鄭、衞淫聲，魚龍雜戲，樂府之內，盡以除之。 今欲更調律呂，改張琴瑟。 且妙術精微，非因教習，工人代掌，止傳糟粕，不足達神明之德，論天地之和。 區域之間，奇才異藝，天知神授，何代無哉！ 蓋晦迹於非時，俟昌言於所好，宜可搜訪，速以奏聞，庶覩一藝之能，共就九成之業。」 仍詔太常牛弘、通直散騎常侍許善心、祕書丞姚察、通直郎虞世基等議定作樂。 己巳，以黃州總管周法尚為永州總管。
In the twelfth month, on the day jiazi, an edict stated: "I reverently receive Heaven's Mandate and have cleared and pacified the ten thousand regions. After the hundred kings' age of decay, in days when the myriad people are shallow and adrift, the sages' legacy has been swept clean to the ground. To establish rites and create music — now is the time. My heart preserves the ancient music and deeply ponders the elegant Way. The licentious sounds of Zheng and Wei, and the mixed entertainments of fish and dragon — within the Music Office all were abolished. Now I wish to retune the pitch pipes and restring the zithers and lutes. Moreover, these subtle arts are profound and cannot be mastered without instruction. When craftsmen pass them down by rote, they transmit only dregs — insufficient to reach the virtue of the numinous or discuss the harmony of Heaven and earth. Within the realm, men of rare talent and extraordinary skill, Heaven-knowing and spirit-endowed — what age has lacked them! They have merely hidden their traces in unpropitious times, awaiting a clear summons to what they love. They should be sought out and quickly reported, so that we may witness each man's single art and together complete the work of the Nine Accomplishments." Thereupon an edict ordered Director of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices Niu Hong, Direct Attendant-in-Ordinary of the Loose Retinue Xu Shanshan, Secretariat Assistant Director Yao Cha, and Attendant Gentleman Yu Shiji and others to deliberate and establish the music. On the day jisi, Zhou Fashang, Commander-in-Chief of Huang Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yong Province.
23
十年春正月乙未，以皇孫昭為河南王，楷為華陽王。
In the first month of spring of the tenth year, on the day yiwei, the emperor's grandsons Zhao and Kai were enfeoffed as Prince of Henan and Prince of Huayang respectively.
24
二月庚申，幸并州。
In the second month, on the day gengshen, the emperor traveled to Bing Province.
25
夏四月辛酉，至自并州。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day xinyou, the emperor returned from Bing Province.
26
五月乙未，詔曰：「魏末喪亂，宇縣瓜分，役車歲動，未遑休息。 兵士軍人，權置坊府，南征北伐，居處無定。 家無完堵，地罕包桑，恒為流寓之人，竟無鄉里之號。 朕甚愍之。 凡是軍人，可悉屬州縣，墾田籍帳，一與民同。 軍府統領，宜依舊式。 罷山東河南及北方緣邊之地新置軍府。」
In the fifth month, on the day yiwei, an edict stated: "At the end of Wei, amid chaos and ruin, the realm was carved up. War chariots moved year after year, with no leisure to rest. Soldiers and military men were provisionally placed in garrison offices; campaigning south and north, they had no fixed abode. No household had intact walls, and few fields had mulberry enclosures. They were constantly people adrift, and in the end had no name of native district. I deeply pity them. All military men shall be assigned to provinces and counties, cultivating fields and entered in registers, the same as common people. The military offices' command should follow the old pattern. Abolish the newly established military offices in Shandong, Henan, and the northern frontier regions."
27
六月辛酉，制人年五十，免役收庸。 癸亥，以靈州總管王世積為荊州總管，淅州刺史元冑為靈州總管。
In the sixth month, on the day xinyou, a regulation was issued: at age fifty a person was exempted from corvée and could pay substitute labor instead. On the day guihai, Wang Shiji, Commander-in-Chief of Ling Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province; Yuan Zhou, Prefect of Xi Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Ling Province.
28
秋七月癸卯，以納言楊素為內史令。 庚戌，上親錄囚徒。 辛亥，高麗遼東郡公高陽卒。 壬子，吐谷渾遣使來朝。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day guimao, Yang Su, Chief Adviser to the Throne, was appointed Director of the Secretariat. On the day gengxu, the emperor personally reviewed prisoners. On the day xinhai, Gao Yang, Duke of Liaodong in Goguryeo, died. On the day renzi, Tuyuhun sent envoys to court.
29
八月壬申，遣柱國、襄陽郡公韋洸，上開府、東萊郡公王景，並持節巡撫嶺南，百越皆服。
In the eighth month, on the day renshen, Senior General Wei Guang, Duke of Xiangyang, and Superlative Opening General Wang Jing, Duke of Donglai, were both dispatched bearing credentials to tour and reassure Lingnan; the hundred Yue all submitted.
30
冬十月甲子，頒木魚符於京師官五品已上。 戊辰，以永州總管周法尚為桂州總管。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jiazi, wooden fish tally tokens were issued to officials of the fifth rank and above in the capital. On the day wuchen, Zhou Fashang, Commander-in-Chief of Yong Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Gui Province.
31
十一月辛卯，幸國學，頒賜各有差。 丙午，契丹遣使朝貢。 辛丑，[3]有事於南郊。 是月，婺州人汪文進、會稽人高智慧、蘇州人沈玄懀皆舉兵反，自稱天子，署置百官。 樂安蔡道人、蔣山李稜、饒州吳代華、永嘉沈孝澈、泉州王國慶、餘杭楊寶英、交趾李春等皆自稱大都督，攻陷州縣。 詔上柱國、內史令、越國公楊素討平之。
In the eleventh month, on the day xinmao, the emperor visited the Imperial Academy and distributed rewards according to rank. On the day bingwu, the Khitan sent envoys with tribute. On the day xinchou,[3] sacrifices were performed at the Southern Altar. That month, Wang Wenjin of Wu Prefecture, Gao Zhihui of Kuaiji, and Shen Xuanyi of Suzhou all raised troops in rebellion, declared themselves emperors, and appointed officials. Cai Daoren of Le'an, Li Ling of Mount Jiang, Wu Daihua of Raozhou, Shen Xiaoche of Yongjia, Wang Guoqing of Quanzhou, Yang Baoying of Yuhang, Li Chun of Jiaozhi, and others all declared themselves grand governors and seized provinces and counties. An edict ordered Senior General of the First Rank, Director of the Secretariat, and Duke of Yue Yang Su to suppress and pacify them.
32
二月戊午，吐谷渾遣使貢方物。 以大將軍蘇孝慈為工部尚書。 丙子，以臨潁令劉曠治術尤異，擢為莒州刺史。 己卯，突厥遣使獻七寶盌。 辛巳晦，日有蝕之。
In the second month, on the day wuwu, Tuyuhun sent envoys presenting local products. General Su Xiaoci was appointed Minister of Works. On the day bingzi, Liu Kuang, Magistrate of Linying, whose governance was exceptionally outstanding, was promoted to Prefect of Ju Province. On the day jimao, the Turks sent envoys presenting a bowl of the seven treasures. On the last day of the month, xinsi, there was a solar eclipse.
33
三月壬午，遣通事舍人若干洽使于吐谷渾。 癸未，以幽州總管周搖為壽州總管，朔州總管吐萬緒為夏州總管。
In the third month, on the day renwu, Attendant Master of Ceremonies Ruogan Qia was dispatched as envoy to Tuyuhun. On the day guimao, Zhou Yao, Commander-in-Chief of You Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Shou Province; Tuo Wanxu, Commander-in-Chief of Shuo Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xia Province.
34
夏四月戊午，突厥雍虞閭可汗遣其特勤來朝。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day wuwu, the Turkic Yabgu Khan Ashina Shetu sent his tegin to court.
35
五月甲子，[4]高麗遣使貢方物。 癸卯，詔百官悉詣朝堂上封事。 乙巳，以右衞將軍元旻為左衞大將軍。
In the fifth month, on the day jiazi,[4] Goguryeo sent envoys presenting local products. On the day guimao, an edict ordered all officials to come to the court hall and submit sealed memorials. On the day yisi, Yuan Min, General of the Right Guard, was appointed General of the Left Guard.
36
秋七月己丑，以柱國杜彥為洪州總管。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day jichou, Du Yan, Senior General, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Hong Province.
37
八月壬申，幸栗園。 滕王瓚薨。 乙亥，至自栗園。 上柱國、沛國公鄭譯卒。
In the eighth month, on the day renshen, the emperor visited Liyuan. Prince of Teng Yang Zan died. On the day yihai, the emperor returned from Liyuan. Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Pei Zheng Yi died.
38
十二月丙辰，靺鞨遣使貢方物。
In the twelfth month, on the day bingchen, the Mohe sent envoys presenting local products.
39
十二年春正月壬子，以蘇州刺史皇甫績為信州總管，宣州刺史席代雅為廣州總管。 [5]
In the first month of spring of the twelfth year, on the day renzi, Huangfu Ji, Prefect of Su Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xin Province; Xi Daiya, Prefect of Xuan Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Guang Province. [5] Scholarly annotation marker.
40
二月己巳，以蜀王秀為內史令，兼右領軍大將軍，漢王諒為雍州牧、右衞大將軍。
In the second month, on the day jisi, Prince of Shu Yang Xiu was appointed Director of the Secretariat and concurrently General of the Right Rear Guard; Prince of Han Yang Liang was appointed Governor of Yong Province and General of the Right Guard.
41
夏四月辛卯，以壽州總管周搖為襄州總管。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day xinmao, Zhou Yao, Commander-in-Chief of Shou Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xiang Province.
42
五月辛亥，廣州總管席代雅卒。
In the fifth month, on the day xinhai, Xi Daiya, Commander-in-Chief of Guang Province, died.
43
秋七月乙巳，尚書右僕射、邳國公蘇威，禮部尚書、容城縣侯盧愷，並坐事除名。 壬戌，幸昆明池，其日還宮。 己巳，有事於太廟。 壬申晦，[6]日有蝕之。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day yisi, Su Wei, Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Duke of Pi, and Lu Kai, Minister of Rites and Marquis of Rongcheng, were both dismissed from office and stripped of rank for offenses. On the day renxu, the emperor visited Kunming Pool and returned to the palace the same day. On the day jisi, sacrifices were performed at the Imperial Ancestral Temple. On the last day of the month, renshen,[6] there was a solar eclipse.
44
八月甲戌，制天下死罪，諸州不得便決，皆令大理覆治。 乙亥，幸龍首池。 癸巳，制宿衞者不得輒離所守。 丁酉，上柱國、夏州總管、楚國公豆盧勣卒。 戊戌，上親錄囚徒。
In the eighth month, on the day jiaxu, a regulation was issued: throughout the realm, death sentences might not be decided immediately by the provinces; all were to be reviewed by the Court of Judicial Review. On the day yihai, the emperor visited Longshou Pool. On the day guisi, a regulation was issued: palace guards might not leave their posts without authorization. On the day dingyou, Senior General of the First Rank, Commander-in-Chief of Xia Province, and Duke of Chu Dou Lu Ji died. On the day wuxu, the emperor personally reviewed prisoners.
45
九月丁未，以工部尚書楊异為吳州總管。
In the ninth month, on the day dingwei, Yang Yi, Minister of Works, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Wu Province.
46
冬十月丁丑，以遂安王集為衞王。 壬午，有事于太廟。 至太祖神主前，上流涕嗚咽，悲不自勝。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day dingchou, Prince of Sui'an Yang Ji was enfeoffed as Prince of Wei. On the day renwu, sacrifices were performed at the Imperial Ancestral Temple. Before the spirit tablet of the Founding Emperor, the emperor wept and sobbed, overcome with grief beyond his control.
47
十一月辛亥，有事於南郊。 壬子，宴百僚，頒賜各有差。 己未，上柱國、新義郡公韓擒虎卒。 庚申，以豫州刺史權武為潭州總管。 甲子，百僚大射於武德殿。
In the eleventh month, on the day xinhai, sacrifices were performed at the Southern Altar. On the day renzi, a banquet was held for the hundred officials and rewards were distributed according to rank. On the day jiwei, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Xinyi Han Qihu died. On the day gengshen, Quan Wu, Prefect of Yu Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Tan Province. On the day jiazi, the hundred officials conducted archery at Wude Hall.
48
十二月癸酉，突厥遣使來朝。 乙酉，以上柱國、內史令楊素為尚書右僕射。 己酉，吐谷渾、靺鞨並遣使貢方物。
In the twelfth month, on the day guiyou, the Turks sent envoys to court. On the day yiyou, Yang Su, Senior General of the First Rank and Director of the Secretariat, was appointed Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs. On the day jiyou, Tuyuhun and the Mohe both sent envoys presenting local products.
49
十三年春正月乙巳，上柱國、郇國公韓建業卒。 [7]丙午，契丹、奚、霫、室韋並遣使貢方物。 壬子，親祀感帝。 己未，以信州總管韋世康為吏部尚書。 壬戌，行幸岐州。
In the first month of spring of the thirteenth year, on the day yisi, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Xun Han Jianye died. [7] On the day bingwu, the Khitan, Xi, Mohe, and Wuhuan all sent envoys presenting local products. On the day renzi, the emperor personally sacrificed to the Spirit of the Spring. On the day jiwei, Wei Shikang, Commander-in-Chief of Xin Province, was appointed Minister of Personnel. On the day renxu, the emperor traveled to Qi Province.
50
二月丙子，詔營仁壽宮。 丁亥，[8]至自岐州。 戊子，宴考使於嘉則殿。 己卯，立皇孫暕為豫章王。 戊子，晉州刺史、南陽郡公賈悉達，隰州總管、撫寧郡公韓延等，以賄伏誅。 己丑，制坐事去官者，配流一年。 丁酉，制私家不得隱藏緯候圖讖。
In the second month, on the day bingzi, an edict ordered the construction of Renshou Palace. On the day dinghai,[8] the emperor returned from Qi Province. On the day wuzi, a banquet was held for the inspection commissioners at Jiaze Hall. On the day jimao, the emperor's grandson Yang Jian was enfeoffed as Prince of Yuzhang. On the day wuzi, Jia Sida, Prefect of Jin Province and Duke of Nanyang, and Han Yan, Commander-in-Chief of Xi Province and Duke of Funing, and others were executed for bribery. On the day jichou, a regulation was issued: officials dismissed for offenses were assigned to penal exile for one year. On the day dingyou, a regulation was issued: private households might not conceal weft texts, apocrypha, or prognostic charts.
51
夏四月癸未，制戰亡之家，給復一年。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day guimao, a regulation was issued: households of men who died in battle were granted one year of tax and corvée exemption.
52
五月癸亥，詔人間有撰集國史、臧否人物者，皆令禁絕。
In the fifth month, on the day guihai, an edict stated: anyone among the people who compiled national histories or passed judgment on persons was to be forbidden.
53
秋七月戊申，靺鞨遣使貢方物。 壬子，左衞大將軍、雲州總管、鉅鹿郡公賀婁子幹卒。 丁巳，幸昆明池。 戊辰晦，日有蝕之。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day wushen, the Mohe sent envoys presenting local products. On the day renzi, Helou Zigan, General of the Left Guard, Commander-in-Chief of Yun Province, and Duke of Julu, died. On the day dingsi, the emperor visited Kunming Pool. On the last day of the month, wuchen, there was a solar eclipse.
54
九月丙辰，降囚徒。 庚申，以邵國公楊綸為滕王。 乙丑，以柱國杜彥為雲州總管。
In the ninth month, on the day bingchen, convicts were granted reduction of sentence. On the day gengshen, Yang Lun, Duke of Shao, was enfeoffed as Prince of Teng. On the day yichou, Du Yan, Senior General, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yun Province.
55
冬十月乙卯，[9]上柱國、華陽郡公梁彥光卒。 [10]
In winter, the tenth month, on the day yimao,[9] Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Huayang Liang Yanguang died. [10] Scholarly annotation marker.
56
十四年夏四月乙丑，詔曰：「在昔聖人，作樂崇德，移風易俗，於斯為大。 自晉氏播遷，兵戈不息，雅樂流散，年代已多，四方未一，無由辨正。 賴上天鑒臨，明神降福，拯茲塗炭，安息蒼生，天下大同，歸於治理，遺文舊物，皆為國有。 比命所司，總令研究，正樂雅聲，詳考已訖，宜即施用，見行者停。 人間音樂，流僻日久，棄其舊體，競造繁聲，浮宕不歸，遂以成俗。 宜加禁約，務存其本。」
In summer, the fourth month of the fourteenth year, on the day yichou, an edict stated: "In former times the sages created music to exalt virtue and to transform customs and change habits — in this lies its greatest meaning. Since the Jin dynasty's flight and displacement, war has not ceased. Elegant music scattered and was lost, and many years have passed. The four quarters were not yet unified, and there was no means to rectify it. Relying on Heaven's oversight and the bright spirits' descent of blessing, we rescued the people from ruin and soothed the black-haired masses. The realm was greatly united and returned to good order, and surviving texts and old objects all became state property. Recently I ordered the responsible offices to gather and study them together, to rectify the music and elegant sounds. The detailed examination is now complete, and they should at once be put into use, while what is currently in practice should cease. Music among the people has long flowed in crooked paths. Abandoning its old forms, they compete to create elaborate sounds, floating and unmoored, until this has become custom. Strict prohibitions should be added, and the root should be preserved."
57
五月辛酉，京師地震。 關內諸州旱。
In the fifth month, on the day xinyou, the capital region suffered an earthquake. The provinces within the passes suffered drought.
58
六月丁卯，詔省府州縣，皆給公廨田，不得治生，與人爭利。
In the sixth month, on the day dingmao, an edict ordered that provinces, departments, prefectures, and counties all be granted public-office fields, and might not engage in trade or compete with the people for profit.
59
秋七月乙未，以邳國公蘇威為訥言。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day yiwei, Su Wei, Duke of Pi, was appointed Chief Adviser to the Throne.
60
八月辛未，關中大旱，人飢。 上率戶口就食於洛陽。
In the eighth month, on the day xinwei, within the passes a great drought occurred and the people suffered famine. The emperor led the population by household register to seek food at Luoyang.
61
九月己未，[11]以齊州刺史樊子蓋為循州總管。 丁巳，以基州刺史崔仲方為會州總管。
In the ninth month, on the day jiwei,[11] Fan Zigai, Prefect of Qi Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xun Province. On the day dingsi, Cui Zhongfang, Prefect of Ji Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Hui Province.
62
冬閏十月甲寅，詔曰：「齊、梁、陳往皆創業一方，綿歷年代。 既宗祀廢絕，祭奠無主，興言矜念，良以愴然。 莒國公蕭琮及高仁英、陳叔寶等，宜令以時修其祭祀。 所須器物，有司給之。」 乙卯，制外官九品已上，父母及子年十五已上，不得將之官。
In winter, the intercalary tenth month, on the day jiayin, an edict stated: "Qi, Liang, and Chen in former days each founded a realm in one region, spanning many years. Now that their ancestral sacrifices have been cut off and their offerings have no master, to speak of pity and remembrance is truly heartbreaking. Duke of Ju Xiao Cong, Gao Renying, Chen Shubao, and others should be ordered to perform their sacrifices at the proper seasons. The implements required shall be supplied by the responsible offices." On the day yimao, a regulation was issued: for outer officials of the ninth rank and above, parents and sons aged fifteen and above might not be taken to their posts.
63
十一月壬戌，制州縣佐吏，三年一代，不得重任。 癸未，有星孛于角亢。
In the eleventh month, on the day renxu, a regulation was issued: assistant officials of provinces and counties serve one term of three years and may not be reappointed to the same post. On the day guimao, a comet appeared at Horn and Neck.
64
十二月乙未，東巡狩。
In the twelfth month, on the day yiwei, the emperor toured east on a hunting progress.
65
十五年春正月壬戌，車駕次齊州，親問疾苦。 丙寅，旅王符山。 庚午，上以歲旱，祠太山，以謝愆咎。 大赦天下。
In the first month of spring of the fifteenth year, on the day renxu, the imperial carriage halted at Qi Province and the emperor personally inquired into the people's suffering. On the day bingyin, the emperor performed a journey-sacrifice at Mount Wangfu. On the day gengwu, because of the year's drought, the emperor sacrificed at Mount Tai to acknowledge fault and blame. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm.
66
二月丙辰，收天下兵器； 敢有私造者，坐之。 關中緣邊，不在其例。 丁巳，上柱國、蔣國公梁睿卒。 三月己未，至自東巡狩。 望祭五嶽海瀆。 丁亥，幸仁壽宮。 營州總管韋藝卒。
In the second month, on the day bingchen, weapons throughout the realm were collected; whoever dared to manufacture them privately was punished. The frontier regions within the passes were not included in this rule. On the day dingsi, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Jiang Yang Rui died. In the third month, on the day jiwei, the emperor returned from the eastern hunting progress. He performed distant-view sacrifices to the Five Sacred Peaks and the rivers and seas. On the day dinghai, the emperor traveled to Renshou Palace. Wei Yi, Commander-in-Chief of Ying Province, died.
67
夏四月己丑朔，大赦天下。 甲辰，以趙州刺史楊達為工部尚書。 丁未，以開府儀同三司韋沖為營州總管。
In summer, the fourth month, on the first day jichou, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm. On the day jiachen, Yang Da, Prefect of Zhao Province, was appointed Minister of Works. On the day dingwei, Wei Chong, Grand Master of Splendid Happiness with Honored Equipage, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Ying Province.
68
五月癸酉，吐谷渾遣使朝貢。 丁亥，制京官五品已上，佩銅魚符。
In the fifth month, on the day guiyou, Tuyuhun sent envoys with tribute. On the day dinghai, a regulation was issued: capital officials of the fifth rank and above were to wear bronze fish tally tokens.
69
六月戊子，詔鑿底柱。 庚寅，相州刺史豆盧通貢綾文布，命焚之於朝堂。 乙未，林邑遣使來貢方物。 辛丑，詔名山大川未在祀典者，悉祠之。
In the sixth month, on the day wuzi, an edict ordered the dredging of Bottom Pillar. On the day gengyin, Prefect of Xiang Province Dou Lu Tong presented patterned silk cloth; the emperor ordered it burned in the court hall. On the day yiwei, Linyi sent envoys presenting local products. On the day xinchou, an edict ordered that famous mountains and great rivers not included in the sacrificial canon should all be sacrificed to.
70
秋七月乙丑，晉王廣獻毛龜。 甲戌，遣邳國公蘇威巡省江南。 戊寅，至自仁壽宮。 辛巳，制九品已上官，以理去職者，聽並執笏。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day yichou, Prince of Jin Yang Guang presented a hairy turtle. On the day jiaxu, Su Wei, Duke of Pi, was dispatched to tour and inspect Jiangnan. On the day wuyin, the emperor returned from Renshou Palace. On the day xinsi, a regulation was issued: officials of the ninth rank and above who left office on proper grounds might all continue to carry their court tablets.
71
冬十月戊子，以吏部尚書韋世康為荊州總管。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day wuzi, Wei Shikang, Minister of Personnel, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province.
72
十一月辛酉，幸溫湯。 乙丑，至自溫湯。
In the eleventh month, on the day xinyou, the emperor visited the hot springs. On the day yichou, the emperor returned from the hot springs.
73
十二月戊子，勑盜邊糧一升已上皆斬，並籍沒其家。 己丑，詔文武官以四考交代。
In the twelfth month, on the day wuzi, an edict ordered that anyone stealing frontier grain of one sheng or more was to be beheaded, and his household registered and confiscated. On the day jichou, an edict ordered that civil and military officials transfer posts after four performance reviews.
74
十六年春正月丁亥，[12]以皇孫裕為平原王，筠為安成王，嶷為安平王，恪為襄城王，該為高陽王，韶為建安王，煚為潁川王。
In the first month of spring of the sixteenth year, on the day dinghai,[12] the emperor's grandsons Yu, Jun, Ni, Ke, Gai, Shao, and Jiong were enfeoffed as Prince of Pingyuan, Prince of Ancheng, Prince of Anping, Prince of Xiangcheng, Prince of Gaoyang, Prince of Jian'an, and Prince of Yingchuan respectively.
75
夏五月丁巳，以懷州刺史龐晃為夏州總管，蔡陽縣公姚辯為靈州總管。
In summer, the fifth month, on the day dingsi, Pang Huang, Prefect of Huai Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Xia Province; Yao Bian, Duke of Caiyang, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Ling Province.
76
六月甲午，制工商不得進仕。 并州大蝗。 辛丑，詔九品已上妻，五品已上妾，夫亡不得改嫁。
In the sixth month, on the day jiawu, a regulation was issued: artisans and merchants might not enter official service. Bing Province suffered a great locust plague. On the day xinchou, an edict ordered that wives of officials of the ninth rank and above, and concubines of officials of the fifth rank and above, might not remarry after their husbands' death.
77
秋八月丙戌，詔決死罪者，三奏而後行刑。
In autumn, the eighth month, on the day bingxu, an edict ordered that in capital cases the sentence was to be reported three times before execution.
78
冬十月己丑，幸長春宮。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jichou, the emperor visited Changchun Palace.
79
十一月壬子，至自長春宮。
In the eleventh month, on the day renzi, the emperor returned from Changchun Palace.
80
十七年春二月癸未，太平公史萬歲擊西寧羌，平之。 庚寅，幸仁壽宮。 庚子，上柱國王世積討桂州賊李光仕，平之。 壬寅，河南王昭納妃，[13]宴羣臣，頒賜各有差。
In the second month of spring of the seventeenth year, on the day guimao, Duke of Taiping Shi Wansui attacked the Xining Qiang and pacified them. On the day gengyin, the emperor traveled to Renshou Palace. On the day gengzi, Senior General Wang Shiji suppressed the Gui Province bandit Li Guangshi and pacified him. On the day renyin, Prince of Henan Yang Zhao received his bride;[13] the hundred officials were banqueted and rewards were distributed according to rank.
81
三月丙辰，詔曰：「分職設官，共理時務，班位高下，各有等差。 若所在官人不相敬憚，多自寬縱，事難克舉。 諸有殿失，雖備科條，或據律乃輕，論情則重，不即決罪，無以懲肅。 其諸司論屬官，若有愆犯，聽於律外斟酌決杖。」 辛酉，上親錄囚徒。 癸亥，上柱國、彭國公劉昶以罪伏誅。 庚午，遣治書侍御史柳彧、皇甫誕巡省河南、河北。
In the third month, on the day bingchen, an edict stated: "Dividing duties and establishing offices is to govern the affairs of the age together; ranks high and low each have their grades. If officials in their posts do not respect and fear one another, they mostly indulge themselves, and affairs are hard to accomplish. For all offenses and failures, although the statutes provide for them, sometimes by law the penalty is light while by the circumstances it is heavy. If guilt is not immediately decided, there is no means to warn and discipline. For subordinate officials under discussion in each office, if there are faults and offenses, they may be beaten with the staff at discretion outside the law. On the day xinyou, the emperor personally reviewed prisoners. On the day guihai, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Peng Liu Fang was executed for a crime. On the day gengwu, Investigating Censor Liu Yu and Huangfu Dan were dispatched to tour and inspect Henan and Hebei.
82
夏四月戊寅，頒新曆。 壬午，詔曰：「周曆告終，羣凶作亂，釁起蕃服，毒被生人。 朕受命上玄，廓清區宇，聖靈垂祐，文武同心。 申明公穆、鄖襄公孝寬、廣平王雄、蔣國公睿、楚國公勣、齊國公熲、越國公素、魯國公慶則、新寧公長叉、宜陽公世積、趙國公羅雲、隴西公詢、廣業公景、真昌公振、沛國公譯、項城公子相、鉅鹿公子幹等，登庸納揆之時，草昧經綸之日，丹誠大節，心盡帝圖，茂績殊勳，力宣王府。 宜弘其門緒，與國同休。 其世子世孫未經州任者，宜量才升用，庶享榮位，世祿無窮。」
In summer, the fourth month, on the day wuyin, the new calendar was promulgated. On the day renwu, an edict stated: "The Zhou calendar reached its end; the wicked raised disorder; trouble arose from the frontier peoples, and poison spread among the living. I received the Mandate from High Heaven and cleared and pacified the realm. The numinous spirits extended their aid, and civil and military officials were of one mind. Marquis Shenming Duke Mu, Duke of Yun and Xiang Li Xiaowan, Prince of Guangping Yang Xiong, Duke of Jiang Yang Rui, Duke of Chu Dou Lu Ji, Duke of Qi Gao Jiong, Duke of Yue Yang Su, Duke of Lu Yu Qingze, Duke of Xining Yang Changcha, Duke of Yiyang Wang Shiji, Duke of Zhao Yang Luoyun, Duke of Longxi Li Xun, Duke of Guangye Yang Jing, Duke of Zhenchang Yang Zhen, Duke of Pei Zheng Yi, Duke of Xiangcheng Yang Zixiang, Duke of Julu Helou Zigan, and others — at the time they entered office and assumed governance, in the days of founding when the realm was still in disorder, showed red loyalty and great constancy, exhausting their hearts for the imperial design, with splendid achievements and extraordinary merit, exerting strength to proclaim the royal house. Their lineages should be enlarged to share blessing with the state. Their heir sons and heir grandsons who have not yet held provincial appointments should be promoted according to talent, so that they may enjoy honored rank and endless hereditary stipends."
83
五月，宴百僚於玉女泉，頒賜各有差。 己巳，蜀王秀來朝。 高麗遣使貢方物。 甲戌，以左衞將軍獨孤羅雲為涼州總管。 [14]
In the fifth month, a banquet was held for the hundred officials at Jade Maiden Spring and rewards were distributed according to rank. On the day jisi, Prince of Shu Yang Xiu came to court. Goguryeo sent envoys presenting local products. On the day jiaxu, Dugu Luoyun, General of the Left Guard, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Liang Province. [14] Scholarly annotation marker.
84
閏月己卯，羣鹿入殿門，馴擾侍衞之內。
In the intercalary month, on the day jimao, a herd of deer entered the palace gate and tamely wandered within the palace guard.
85
秋七月丁丑，桂州人李代賢反，[15]遣右武候大將軍虞慶則討平之。 丁亥，上柱國、并州總管秦王俊坐事免，以王就第。 戊戌，突厥遣使貢方物。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day dingchou, Li Daixian of Gui Province rebelled;[15] Yu Qingze, General of the Right Martial Guard, was dispatched to suppress and pacify him. On the day dinghai, Senior General of the First Rank and Commander-in-Chief of Bing Province Yang Jun was dismissed for an offense and sent to his residence as a prince. On the day wuxu, the Turks sent envoys presenting local products.
86
八月丁卯，荊州總管、上庸郡公韋世康卒。
In the eighth month, on the day dingmao, Wei Shikang, Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province and Duke of Shangyong, died.
87
九月甲申，至自仁壽宮。 庚寅，上謂侍臣曰：「禮主於敬，皆當盡心。 黍稷非馨，貴在祗肅。 廟庭設樂，本以迎神，齋祭之日，觸目多感。 當此之際，何可為心！ 在路奏樂，禮未為允。 羣公卿士，宜更詳之。」
In the ninth month, on the day jiashen, the emperor returned from Renshou Palace. On the day gengyin, the emperor said to his attending ministers: "Rites are rooted in reverence, and all should give their full hearts. Millet and millet are not fragrant in themselves; what is precious is reverent solemnity. Music is set up in the temple courtyard originally to welcome the spirits; on days of fasting sacrifice, what meets the eye moves one deeply. At such a moment, how can the heart be at ease! Playing music along the road is not ritually acceptable. The assembled dukes, ministers, and scholars should examine this matter further."
88
冬十月丁未，頒銅獸符於驃騎、車騎府。 [16]戊申，道王靜薨。 庚午，詔曰：「五帝異樂，三王殊禮，皆隨事而有損益，因情而立節文。 仰惟祭享宗廟，瞻敬如在，罔極之感，情深茲日。 而禮畢升路，鼓吹發音，還入宮門，金石振響。 斯則哀樂同日，心事相違，情所不安，理實未允。 宜改茲往式，用弘禮教。 自今已後，享廟日不須備鼓吹，殿庭勿設樂懸。」 辛未，京師大索。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day dingwei, bronze beast tally tokens were issued to the Rapid Cavalry and Chariot Cavalry offices. [16] On the day wushen, Prince of Dao Yang Jing died. On the day gengwu, an edict stated: "The Five Emperors had different music and the Three Kings had different rites — each adjusted according to circumstance and shaped ritual form to fit the feeling of the age. When one looks up to sacrifice at the Ancestral Temple, reverence is as though the spirits were present; on this day the feeling of boundless gratitude runs deepest. Yet when the rites are finished and one mounts the carriage, drums and pipes sound; upon re-entering the palace gate, bells and chimes resound. Thus grief and music fall on the same day, and the heart's intent conflicts with the outward act — what feeling cannot accept is in truth not permitted by reason. The former practice should be changed so as to extend ritual teaching. Henceforth, on days of temple offerings drums and pipes need not be provided, and bell frames should not be set up in the palace hall." On the day xinwei, a great search was conducted in the capital.
89
十一月丁亥，突厥遣使來朝。
In the eleventh month, on the day dinghai, the Turks sent envoys to court.
90
十二月壬子，上柱國、右武候大將軍、魯國公虞慶則以罪伏誅。
In the twelfth month, on the day renzi, Senior General of the First Rank, General of the Right Martial Guard, and Duke of Lu Guo Yu Qingze was executed for his crimes.
91
十八年春正月辛丑，詔曰：「吳、越之人，往承弊俗，所在之處，私造大船，因相聚結，致有侵害。 其江南諸州，人間有船長三丈已上，悉括入官。」
In the first month of spring of the eighteenth year, on the day xinchou, an edict stated: "The people of Wu and Yue have long inherited corrupt customs; wherever they dwell they privately build large boats, gather in bands, and cause harm. In all the Jiangnan provinces, any boat among the people longer than three zhang shall be confiscated by the state."
92
二月甲辰，幸仁壽宮。 乙巳，以漢王諒為行軍元帥，水陸三十萬伐高麗。
In the second month, on the day jiachen, the emperor visited Renshou Palace. On the day yisi, Prince of Han Yang Liang was made Campaign Commander-in-Chief, and three hundred thousand troops by land and water were sent to attack Goguryeo.
93
三月乙亥，以柱國杜彥為朔州總管。
In the third month, on the day yihai, Senior General Du Yan was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Shuozhou.
94
夏四月癸卯，以蔣州刺史郭衍為洪州總管。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day guimao, Guo Yan, Prefect of Jiang Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Hong Province.
95
五月辛亥，[17]詔畜猫鬼、蠱毒、厭魅、野道之家，投於四裔。
In the fifth month, on the day xinhai, [17] an edict ordered that households practicing cat-demon sorcery, poison witchcraft, malign charms, or wild cults be banished to the four borderlands.
96
六月丙寅，下詔黜高麗王高元官爵。
In the sixth month, on the day bingyin, an edict was issued stripping King Gao Yuan of Goguryeo of his titles and ranks.
97
秋七月壬申，詔以河南八州水，免其課役。 丙子，詔京官五品已上，總管、刺史，以志行修謹、清平幹濟二科舉人。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day renshen, an edict granted exemption from taxes and corvée to the eight Henan provinces on account of flooding. On the day bingzi, an edict ordered that capital officials of the fifth rank and above, commanders-in-chief, and prefects recommend men under the two categories of "upright conduct and careful cultivation" and "clear, fair, and capable in office."
98
九月己丑，漢王諒師遇疾疫而旋，死者十八九。 庚寅，勑舍客無公驗者，坐及刺史、縣令。 辛卯，至自仁壽宮。
In the ninth month, on the day jichou, Prince of Han Yang Liang's army met with plague and withdrew; eight or nine out of ten perished. On the day gengyin, an imperial order stated that lodging guests without official travel documents would implicate the prefect and county magistrate. On the day xinmao, the emperor returned from Renshou Palace.
99
冬十一月甲戌，上親錄囚徒。 癸未，有事於南郊。
In winter, the eleventh month, on the day jiaxu, the emperor personally reviewed prisoners. On the day guiwei, sacrifices were performed at the Southern Suburb.
100
十二月庚子，上柱國、夏州總管、任城郡公王景以罪伏誅。 是月，自京師至仁壽宮，置行宮十有二所。
In the twelfth month, on the day gengzi, Senior General of the First Rank, Commander-in-Chief of Xia Province, and Duke of Rencheng Wang Jing was executed for his crimes. That month, twelve traveling palaces were established from the capital to Renshou Palace.
101
十九年春正月癸酉，大赦天下。 戊寅，大射武德殿，宴賜百官。 二月己亥，晉王廣來朝。 辛丑，以并州總管長史宇文㢸為朔州總管。 甲寅，幸仁壽宮。
In the first month of spring of the nineteenth year, on the day guiyou, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm. On the day wuyin, archery was performed at Wude Hall, and a banquet was held with rewards distributed to the hundred officials. In the second month, on the day jihai, Prince of Jin Yang Guang came to court. On the day xinchou, Yuwen Bi, Chief Administrator of Bing Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Shuozhou. On the day jiayin, the emperor visited Renshou Palace.
102
夏四月丁酉，突厥利可汗內附。 [18]達頭可汗犯塞，遣行軍總管史萬歲擊破之。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day dingyou, the Turkish Li Khan submitted to the dynasty. [18] The Tardu Khan raided the frontier; Campaign Commander-in-Chief Shi Wansui was dispatched, defeated him, and drove him back.
103
六月丁酉，以豫章王暕為內史令。
In the sixth month, on the day dingyou, Prince of Yuzhang Yang Zhan was appointed Director of the Secretariat.
104
秋八月癸卯，上柱國、尚書左僕射、齊國公高熲坐事免。 辛亥，上柱國、皖城郡公張威卒。 甲寅、上柱國、城陽郡公李徹卒。
In autumn, the eighth month, on the day guimao, Senior General of the First Rank, Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs, and Duke of Qi Gao Jiong was dismissed for an offense. On the day xinhai, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Wancheng Zhang Wei died. On the day jiayin, Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Chengyang Li Che died.
105
九月乙丑，以太常卿牛弘為吏部尚書。
In the ninth month, on the day yichou, Niu Hong, Minister of Ceremonies, was appointed Minister of Personnel.
106
冬十月甲午，以突厥利可汗為啟人可汗，[19]築大利城處其部落。 庚子，以朔州總管宇文㢸為代州總管。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jiawu, the Turkish Li Khan was made Qiren Khan, [19] and the city of Dali was built to receive his tribes. On the day gengzi, Yuwen Bi, Commander-in-Chief of Shuozhou, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Dai Province.
107
十二月乙未，突厥都藍可汗為部下所殺。 丁丑，[20]星隕於勃海。
In the twelfth month, on the day yiwei, the Turkish Dulan Khan was killed by his subordinates. On the day dingchou, [20] a star fell in the Bohai Sea.
108
二十年春正月辛酉朔，上在仁壽宮。 突厥、高麗、契丹並遣使貢方物。 癸亥，以代州總管宇文㢸為吳州總管。
In the first month of spring of the twentieth year, on the first day xinyou, the emperor was at Renshou Palace. The Turks, Goguryeo, and Khitan all sent envoys presenting local products. On the day guihai, Yuwen Bi, Commander-in-Chief of Dai Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Wu Province.
109
二月己巳，以上柱國崔弘度為原州總管。 丁丑，無雲而雷。
In the second month, on the day jisi, Senior General of the First Rank Cui Hongdu was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yuan Province. On the day dingchou, thunder sounded though there were no clouds.
110
三月辛卯，熙州人李英林反，遣行軍總管張衡討平之。
In the third month, on the day xinmao, Li Yinglin of Xizhou rebelled; Campaign Commander-in-Chief Zhang Heng was sent to suppress and pacify him.
111
夏四月壬戌，突厥犯塞，以晉王廣為行軍元帥，擊破之。 乙亥，天有聲如瀉水，自南而北。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day renxu, the Turks raided the frontier; Prince of Jin Yang Guang was made Campaign Commander-in-Chief and defeated them. On the day yihai, heaven made a sound like pouring water, from south to north.
112
秋八月，老人星見。
In autumn, the eighth month, the Old Man star appeared.
113
九月丁未，至自仁壽宮。 癸丑，吳州總管楊异卒。
In the ninth month, on the day dingwei, the emperor returned from Renshou Palace. On the day guichou, Yang Yi, Commander-in-Chief of Wu Province, died.
114
冬十月己未，太白晝見。 乙丑，皇太子勇及諸子並廢為庶人。 殺柱國、太平縣公史萬歲。 己巳，殺左衞大將軍、五原郡公元旻。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jiwei, the Bright Metal star appeared in daylight. On the day yichou, Crown Prince Yong and all his sons were deposed and reduced to commoner status. Senior General of the First Rank and Duke of Taiping Shi Wansui was executed. On the day jisi, General of the Left Guard and Duke of Wuyuan Yuan Min was executed.
115
十一月戊子，天下地震，京師大風雪。 以晉王廣為皇太子。
In the eleventh month, on the day wuzi, earthquakes occurred throughout the realm; the capital suffered great wind and snow. Prince of Jin Yang Guang was made Crown Prince.
116
十二月戊午，詔東宮官屬不得稱臣於皇太子。 辛巳，詔曰：「佛法深妙，道教虛融，咸降大慈，濟度羣品，凡在含識，皆蒙覆護。 所以雕鑄靈相，圖寫真形，率土瞻仰，用申誠敬。 其五嶽四鎮，節宣雲雨，江、河、淮、海，浸潤區域，並生養萬物，利益兆人，故建廟立祀，以時恭敬。 敢有毀壞偷盜佛及天尊像、嶽鎮海瀆神形者，以不道論。 沙門壞佛像，道士壞天尊者，以惡逆論。」
In the twelfth month, on the day wuwu, an edict stated that officials of the Eastern Palace might not address the Crown Prince as "my lord." On the day xinsi, an edict stated: "The Buddhist Law is profound and subtle; the Daoist Way is empty yet penetrating — both descend in great compassion to deliver all beings, and all who possess consciousness receive their sheltering protection. For this reason spirit images are cast and true forms painted, so that throughout the land people may look up and express sincere reverence. The Five Sacred Peaks and Four Guardian Mountains regulate clouds and rain; the Yangzi, Yellow, Huai, and sea rivers moisten the regions — all nourish the myriad things and benefit the people; therefore temples and sacrifices are established so that reverence may be offered in season. Whoever dares destroy, steal, or damage images of Buddha or the Heavenly Worthy, or the spirit forms of the peaks, guardian mountains, and rivers and seas, shall be judged under the statute of unprincipled conduct. Buddhist monks who destroy Buddha images, and Daoist priests who destroy Heavenly Worthy images, shall be judged under the statute of treasonous wickedness."
117
二月乙卯朔，日有蝕之。 辛巳，以上柱國獨孤楷為原州總管。
In the second month, on the first day yimao, there was a solar eclipse. On the day xinsi, Senior General of the First Rank Dugu Kai was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yuan Province.
118
三月壬辰，以豫章王暕為揚州總管。
In the third month, on the day renchen, Prince of Yuzhang Yang Zhan was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yang Province.
119
夏四月，以淅州刺史蘇孝慈為洪州總管。
In summer, the fourth month, Su Xiaoci, Prefect of Xi Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Hong Province.
120
五月己丑，突厥男女九萬口來降。 壬辰，驟雨震雷，大風拔木，宜君湫水移於始平。
In the fifth month, on the day jichou, ninety thousand men and women of the Turks submitted. On the day renchen, sudden rain, thunder, and great wind uprooted trees; the waters of the Yijun Pool shifted to Shiping.
121
六月癸丑，洪州總管蘇孝慈卒。 乙卯，遣十六使巡省風俗。 乙丑，詔曰：「儒學之道，訓教生人，識父子君臣之義，知尊卑長幼之序，升之於朝，任之以職，故能贊理時務，弘益風範。 朕撫臨天下，思弘德教，延集學徒，崇建庠序，開進仕之路，佇賢雋之人。 而國學冑子，垂將千數，州縣諸生，咸亦不少。 徒有名錄，空度歲時，未有德為代範，才任國用。 良由設學之理，多而未精。 今宜簡省，明加奬勵。」 於是國子學唯留學生七十人，太學、四門及州縣學並廢。 其日，頒舍利於諸州。
In the sixth month, on the day guichou, Su Xiaoci, Commander-in-Chief of Hong Province, died. On the day yimao, sixteen envoys were dispatched to tour and inspect local customs. On the day yichou, an edict stated: "The Way of Confucian learning instructs and nurtures the living; it teaches the relations of father and son and ruler and minister, and the order of senior and junior — when such men are elevated to court and assigned to office, they can assist in governing affairs of the age and extend and enrich standards of conduct. I rule the realm and wish to extend virtuous teaching, gathering students and building schools, opening the path to advancement and awaiting men of talent and excellence. Yet the sons of the National University number nearly a thousand, and the students of the provinces and counties are also not few. They bear only empty names on the rolls and pass years in idleness; none have virtue to serve as models for the age or talent fit for state employment. This is truly because the principle of establishing schools has been broad but not refined. Now they should be simplified and reduced, with clear rewards and encouragement. Thereupon the National University retained only seventy students; the Imperial University, the Four Gates, and the provincial and county schools were all abolished. That day, Buddhist relics were distributed to the provinces.
122
秋七月戊戌，改國子為太學。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day wuxu, the National University was renamed the Imperial University.
123
九月癸未，以柱國杜彥為雲州總管。
In the ninth month, on the day guiwei, Senior General Du Yan was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yun Province.
124
十一月己丑，有事於南郊。 壬辰，以資州刺史衞玄為遂州總管。
In the eleventh month, on the day jichou, sacrifices were performed at the Southern Suburb. On the day renchen, Wei Xuan, Prefect of Zi Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Sui Province.
125
二年春二月辛亥，以邢州刺史侯莫陳頴為桂州總管，宗正楊祀為荊州總管。 [21]
In the second month of spring of the second year, on the day xinhai, Hou Mochen Ying, Prefect of Xing Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Gui Province; Yang Si, Director of the Imperial Clan Court, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Jing Province. [21] Scholarly annotation marker.
126
三月己亥，幸仁壽宮。 壬寅，以齊州刺史張喬為潭州總管。 [22]
In the third month, on the day jihai, the emperor visited Renshou Palace. On the day renyin, Zhang Qiao, Prefect of Qi Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Tan Province. [22] Scholarly annotation marker.
127
夏四月庚戌，岐、雍二州地震。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day gengxu, Qi and Yong provinces suffered earthquakes.
128
秋七月丙戌，詔內外官各舉所知。 戊子，以原州總管獨孤楷為益州總管。
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day bingxu, an edict ordered that officials inside and outside the court each recommend men of talent they knew. On the day wuzi, Dugu Kai, Commander-in-Chief of Yuan Province, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yi Province.
129
八月己巳，皇后獨孤氏崩。
In the eighth month, on the day jisi, Empress Dugu died.
130
九月丙戌，至自仁壽宮。 壬辰，河南、北諸州大水，遣工部尚書楊達賑恤之。 乙未，上柱國、襄州總管、金水郡公周搖卒。 隴西地震。
In the ninth month, on the day bingxu, the emperor returned from Renshou Palace. On the day renchen, Henan and the northern provinces were stricken by great floods; Minister of Works Yang Da was sent to provide relief. On the day yiwei, Senior General of the First Rank, Commander-in-Chief of Xiang Province, and Duke of Jinshui Zhou Yao died. Longxi suffered an earthquake.
131
冬十月壬子，曲赦益州管內。 癸丑，以工部尚書楊達為納言。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day renzi, a partial amnesty was granted within Yi Province. On the day guichou, Yang Da, Minister of Works, was appointed Chief Adviser to the Throne.
132
閏月甲申，詔尚書左僕射楊素與諸術者刊定陰陽舛謬。 己丑，詔曰：「禮之為用，時義大矣。 黃琮蒼璧，降天地之神，粢盛牲食，展宗廟之敬，正父子君臣之序，明婚姻喪紀之節。 故道德仁義，非禮不成，安上治人，莫善於禮。 自區宇亂離，緜歷年代，王道衰而變風作，微言絕而大義乖，與代推移，其弊日甚。 至於四時郊祀之節文，五服麻葛之隆殺，是非異說，踳駁殊塗，致使聖教凋訛，輕重無準。 朕祗承天命，撫臨生人，當洗滌之時，屬干戈之代。 克定禍亂，先運武功，刪正彝典，日不暇給。 今四海乂安，五戎勿用，理宜弘風訓俗，導德齊禮，綴往聖之舊章，興先王之茂則。 尚書左僕射、越國公楊素，尚書右僕射、邳國公蘇威，吏部尚書、奇章公牛弘，內史侍郎薛道衡，祕書丞許善心，內史舍人虞世基，著作郎王劭，或任居端揆，博達古今，或器推令望，學綜經史。 委以裁緝，實允僉議。 可並修定五禮。」 壬寅，葬獻皇后於太陵。
In the intercalary month, on the day jiashen, an edict ordered Left Vice Director Yang Su and various calendrical specialists to correct errors in yin-yang reckoning. On the day jichou, an edict stated: "The use of ritual has great meaning for the age. Yellow jade and dark-green disks summon the spirits of Heaven and Earth; sacrificial grain and offerings of flesh display reverence for the Ancestral Temple, setting in order the relations of father and son and ruler and minister and clarifying the norms of marriage and mourning. Therefore virtue and morality cannot be established without ritual; in settling superiors and governing the people, nothing surpasses ritual. Since the realm fell into disorder and separation, spanning many years, the royal Way declined and corrupt customs arose. Subtle words ceased and great principles were lost; with each passing age the abuses grew worse. As for the ritual texts of the four seasonal suburban sacrifices and the gradations of hemp and ramie in the five degrees of mourning dress — conflicting doctrines and contradictory paths caused the sage teaching to wither and err, with no standard for what is heavy or light. I reverently received Heaven's Mandate and rule over the living; at the time of renewal I was in an age of arms. Having conquered calamity and disorder, I first applied military achievement; revising the canonical statutes left no day free. Now the four seas are at peace and the five barbarians need not be employed; it is fitting to extend custom and train the people, guide virtue and align ritual, restore the old statutes of former sages, and revive the flourishing norms of earlier kings. Left Vice Director Yang Su, Duke of Yue; Right Vice Director Su Wei, Duke of Pi; Minister of Personnel Niu Hong, Duke of Qizhang; Secretariat Vice Director Xue Daohheng; Secretariat Aide Xu Shansin; Secretariat Attendant Yu Shiji; and Compiler Wang Shao — some hold the highest offices and are broadly versed in past and present; others are men of outstanding reputation whose learning spans the classics and histories. Entrusting them with editing and compilation truly meets with general approval. They may together revise and fix the Five Rituals." On the day renyin, Empress Xian was buried at Tailing.
133
十二月癸巳，上柱國、益州總管蜀王秀廢為庶人。 交州人李佛子舉兵反，遣行軍總管劉方討平之。
In the twelfth month, on the day gisi, Senior General of the First Rank and Commander-in-Chief of Yi Province Prince of Shu Yang Xiu was deposed to commoner status. Li Fozi of Jiaozhou raised troops in rebellion; Campaign Commander-in-Chief Liu Fang was sent to suppress and pacify him.
134
三年春二月己卯，原州總管、比陽縣公龐晃卒。 戊子，以大將軍、蔡陽郡公姚辯為左武候大將軍。
In the second month of spring of the third year, on the day jimao, Pang Huang, Commander-in-Chief of Yuan Province and Duke of Biyang, died. On the day wuzi, Yao Bian, Grand General and Duke of Caiyang, was appointed General of the Left Martial Guard.
135
夏五月癸卯，詔曰：「哀哀父母，生我劬勞，欲報之德，昊天罔極。 但風樹不靜，嚴敬莫追，霜露既降，感思空切。 六月十三日，是朕生日，宜令海內為武元皇帝、元明皇后斷屠。」
In summer, the fifth month, on the day guimao, an edict stated: "Alas, alas, my parents — in bearing me they toiled; I would repay their virtue, but boundless Heaven permits it not. Yet the wind in the trees is unstill; solemn reverence cannot be recovered. Frost and dew have already fallen, and my longing is empty and sharp. The thirteenth day of the sixth month is my birthday; throughout the realm slaughter should be suspended in honor of Emperor Wu of Yuan and Empress Yuanming."
136
六月甲午，詔曰：
In the sixth month, on the day jiawu, an edict stated:
137
禮云：「至親以朞斷。」 蓋以四時之變易，萬物之更始，故聖人象之。 其有三年，加隆爾也。 但家無二尊，母為厭降，是以父存喪母，還服于朞者，服之正也。 豈容朞內而更小祥！ 然三年之喪而有小祥者，禮云：「朞祭，禮也。 朞而除喪，道也。」 以是之故，雖未再朞，而天地一變，不可不祭，不可不除。 故有練焉，以存喪祭之本。 然朞喪有練，於理未安。 雖云十一月而練，乃無所法象，非朞非時，豈可除祭。 而儒者徒擬三年之喪，立練禫之節，可謂苟存其變，而失其本，欲漸於奪，乃薄於喪。 致使子則冠練去絰，黃裏縓緣，絰則布葛在躬，粗服未改。 豈非絰哀尚存，子情已奪，親疎失倫，輕重顛倒！ 乃不順人情，豈聖人之意也！ 故知先聖之禮廢於人邪，三年之喪尚有不行之者，至於祥練之節，安能不墜者乎？
The Rites say: "For the closest kin, mourning ends at one year." This is because the four seasons change and the myriad things begin anew; therefore the sages took them as models. When there is three years' mourning, it is because additional solemnity is added. But in a household there cannot be two supreme authorities; the mother is subject to reduction because the father takes precedence. Therefore when the father is alive and one mourns the mother, one returns to one-year mourning after the first year — this is the correct garment. How can one perform lesser mourning within the first year! Yet in three years' mourning there is lesser mourning — the Rites say: "The one-year sacrifice is ritual. Ending mourning at one year is the Way." For this reason, though the second year has not yet come, once Heaven and Earth have changed once, sacrifice cannot be omitted and mourning cannot be retained. Therefore there is the practice of refined mourning, to preserve the root of mourning sacrifice. Yet one-year mourning with refined mourning is ritually unsound. Though it is said that refined mourning comes in the eleventh month, there is nothing to model it on; it is neither at one year nor at the proper season — how can mourning be ended and sacrifice performed? Confucian scholars merely imitated three years' mourning and established the stages of refined and final mourning — one may say they preserved a change but lost the root, wishing to diminish grief gradually yet making mourning too thin. This caused the son to wear refined mourning and remove the headband, with yellow lining and hem, while the headband of hemp and ramie remained on the body and coarse garments were unchanged. Is this not a case where grief for the headband still remains yet the son's feeling has already been taken away — near and distant lose their order, heavy and light are reversed! This does not accord with human feeling — how could it be the intent of the sages! Thus we know the rites of the former sages were abandoned by men — of three years' mourning there were already those who did not observe it; as for the stages of auspicious and refined mourning, how could they fail to fall away?
138
禮云：「父母之喪，無貴賤一也。」 而大夫士之喪父母，乃貴賤異服。 然則禮壞樂崩，由來漸矣。 所以晏平仲之斬粗縗，其老謂之非禮，滕文公之服三年，其臣咸所不欲。 蓋由王道既衰，諸侯異政，將踰越於法度，惡禮制之害己，乃滅去篇籍，自制其宜。 遂至骨肉之恩，輕重從俗，無易之道，隆殺任情。 況孔子沒而微言隱，秦滅學而經籍焚者乎！ 有漢之興，雖求儒雅，人皆異說，義非一貫。 又近代亂離，唯務兵革，其於典禮，時所未遑。 夫禮不從天降，不從地出，乃人心而己者，謂情緣於恩也。 故恩厚者其禮隆，情輕者其禮殺。 聖人以是稱情立文，別親疎貴賤之節。 自臣子道消，上下失序，莫大之恩，逐情而薄，莫重之禮，與時而殺。 此乃服不稱喪，容不稱服，非所謂聖人緣恩表情，制禮之義也。
The Rites say: "In mourning for parents, noble and base are alike." Yet when grandees and officers mourn parents, noble and base wear different garments. Thus ritual was ruined and music collapsed — this has been a gradual process. For this reason when Yan Pingzhong wore coarse hemp with the hem unfinished, his elders called it unritual; when Duke Wen of Teng observed three years' mourning, his ministers all disapproved. This was because the royal Way had already declined and the feudal lords each pursued a different policy. Wishing to transgress law and measure, they hated ritual institutions that harmed themselves, and so destroyed the written records and made their own standards. Thereupon even the affection between kin, heavy and light, followed custom; there was no constant Way, and gradations of solemnity followed personal inclination. How much more so after Confucius died and subtle words were hidden, and Qin extinguished learning and burned the classics! When Han arose, though it sought Confucian refinement, every man had a different doctrine and the principles were not unified. Again in recent ages of disorder and separation, only military affairs were pursued; as for canonical ritual, there was no leisure for it. Ritual does not descend from Heaven or rise from Earth — it is only of the human heart; one says that feeling arises from grace. Therefore where grace is deep, ritual is solemn; where feeling is light, ritual is reduced. For this reason the sages weighed feeling to establish text, distinguishing the norms of near and distant, noble and base. Since the way of subject and son declined and high and low lost order, the greatest grace was thinned according to feeling, and the weightiest ritual was reduced according to the age. This is garments not matching mourning, appearance not matching garments — not what is meant by the sages weighing grace to express feeling and establishing ritual.
139
然喪與易也，寧在於戚，則禮之本也。 禮有其餘，未若於哀，則情之實也。 今十一月而練者，非禮之本，非情之實。 由是言之，父存喪母，不宜有練。 但依禮十三月而祥，中月而禫。 庶以合聖人之意，達孝子之心。
Yet mourning changes easily; better to dwell in grief — that is the root of ritual. When ritual has excess beyond this, it is not as good as genuine grief — that is the reality of feeling. Now refined mourning in the eleventh month is not the root of ritual, not the reality of feeling. From this it follows that when the father is alive and one mourns the mother, refined mourning is not appropriate. But according to ritual, auspicious mourning comes in the thirteenth month, and final mourning in the month between. In this way one may accord with the intent of the sages and reach the heart of the filial son.
140
秋七月丁卯，詔曰：
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day dingmao, an edict stated:
141
日往月來，唯天所以運序，山鎮川流，唯地所以宣氣。 運序則寒暑無差，宣氣則雲雨有作，故能成天地之大德，育萬物而為功。 況一人君于四海，睹物欲運，獨見致治，不藉羣才，未之有也。 是以唐堯欽明，命羲、和以居岳，虞舜叡德，升元、凱而作相。 伊尹鼎俎之媵，為殷之阿衡，呂望漁釣之夫，為周之尚父。 此則鳴鶴在陰，其子必和，風雲之從龍虎，賢哲之應聖明，君德不回，臣道以正，故能通天地之和，順陰陽之序，豈不由元首而有股肱乎？
Days pass and months come — only Heaven thus maintains sequence; mountains anchor and rivers flow — only Earth thus releases vapor. When sequence is maintained, cold and heat have no imbalance; when vapor is released, clouds and rain are produced — thus the great virtue of Heaven and Earth is accomplished and the myriad things are nourished to merit. How much more so for one man ruling the four seas, seeing the desires of things in motion — to achieve good order alone, without relying on many talents, has never happened. Therefore Tang Yao was reverently brilliant and appointed Xi and He to dwell on the peaks; Yu Shun was sagely in virtue and elevated Yuan and Kai as ministers. Yi Yin, attendant at the sacrificial vessel, became Yin's Chief Minister; Lü Wang, a man fishing with line, became Zhou's Grand Mentor. This is like the crane calling in the shade — its young must respond; clouds and wind follow the dragon and tiger; the worthy respond to the sage and bright. When the ruler's virtue does not turn aside, the minister's way is corrected, and thus the harmony of Heaven and Earth is penetrated and the order of yin and yang is followed — is this not because the head has arms and legs?
142
自王道衰，人風薄，居上莫能公道以御物，為下必踵私法以希時。 上下相蒙，君臣義失，義失則政乖，政乖則人困。 蓋同德之風難嗣，離德之軌易追，則任者不休，休者不任，則眾口鑠金，戮辱之禍不測。 是以行歌避代，辭位灌園，卷而可懷，黜而無慍，放逐江湖之上，沈赴河海之流，所以自潔而不悔者也。 至於閭閻秀異之士，鄉曲博雅之儒，言足以佐時，行足以勵俗，遺棄於草野，堙滅而無聞，豈勝道哉！ 所以覽古而歎息者也。
Since the royal Way declined, human customs grew thin; those above could not govern fairly to manage things, and those below inevitably followed private ways to seek favor with the times. Above and below deceived one another; the righteousness between ruler and minister was lost. When righteousness was lost, government went awry; when government went awry, the people were distressed. The wind of shared virtue was hard to continue; the track of divided virtue was easy to follow — then those who served did not rest, and those who rested did not serve; then many mouths melted gold, and the calamity of disgrace was unpredictable. For this reason men sang songs to avoid succession, declined office to irrigate gardens, what was rolled up could be kept in the bosom, and when dismissed there was no resentment. Exiled upon rivers and lakes, sunk in the streams of river and sea — this was how they kept themselves pure and did not regret it. As for outstanding men of the lanes and wards, and learned Confucians of village and countryside — whose words could assist the age and whose conduct could encourage custom — abandoned in the wilds, buried and unheard of: how could one bear to speak of it! This is what causes one to sigh when reading of the ancients.
143
方今區宇一家，煙火萬里，百胜乂安，四夷賓服，豈是人功，實乃天意。 朕惟夙夜祗懼，將所以上嗣明靈，是以小心勵己，日慎一日。 以黎元在念，憂兆庶未康，以庶政為懷，慮一物失所。 雖求傅巖，莫見幽人，徒想崆峒，未聞至道。 唯恐商歌於長夜，抱關於夷門，遠跡犬羊之間，屈身僮僕之伍。 其令州縣搜揚賢哲，皆取明知今古，通識治亂，究政教之本，達禮樂之源。 不限多少，不得不舉。 限以三旬，咸令進路。 徵召將送，必須以禮。
At present the realm is one family, beacon fires stretch ten thousand li, a hundred victories bring peace, and the four barbarians submit — this is not human achievement alone but truly Heaven's intent. I am reverently fearful morning and night, wishing thereby to succeed the bright spirits above; therefore I restrain myself with care and grow more cautious day by day. With the black-haired masses in mind, I worry that the myriad people are not yet at ease; with the many affairs of government in heart, I fear that a single thing may be lost. Though I seek a Fu Yue, I do not see the recluse; though I think of Mount Kongtong, I have not heard the utmost Way. I only fear that men sing merchant songs through the long night, guard gates at Yimen, track far among dogs and sheep, and humble themselves in the ranks of servants. Let the provinces and counties search out and promote the worthy and wise — all who clearly know past and present, thoroughly understand order and disorder, investigate the root of government and teaching, and reach the source of ritual and music. There is no limit to number; none may fail to be recommended. Within thirty days all are ordered to come forward. When summoned and escorted, they must be treated with ritual.
144
八月壬申，上柱國、檢校幽州總管、落叢郡公燕榮以罪伏誅。
In the eighth month, on the day renshen, Senior General of the First Rank, Acting Commander-in-Chief of You Province, and Duke of Luocong Yan Rong was executed for his crimes.
145
九月壬戌，置常平官。 甲子，以營州總管韋沖為民部尚書。
In the ninth month, on the day renxu, Ever-Normal granary officials were established. On the day jiazi, Wei Chong, Commander-in-Chief of Ying Province, was appointed Minister of the Household.
146
十二月癸酉，河南諸州水，遣納言楊達賑恤之。
In the twelfth month, on the day guiyou, the Henan provinces suffered flooding; Chief Adviser Yang Da was sent to provide relief.
147
四年春正月丙辰，大赦。 甲子，幸仁壽宮。 乙丑，詔賞罰支度，事無巨細，並付皇太子。
In the first month of spring of the fourth year, on the day bingchen, a general amnesty was proclaimed. On the day jiazi, the emperor visited Renshou Palace. On the day yichou, an edict ordered that rewards, punishments, and expenditures, whether great or small, all be entrusted to the Crown Prince.
148
夏四月乙卯，[23]上不豫。
In summer, the fourth month, on the day yimao, [23] the emperor fell ill.
149
六月庚申，[24]大赦天下。 有星入月中，數日而退。 長人見於雁門。
In the sixth month, on the day gengshen, [24] a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm. A star entered the moon and after several days withdrew. A giant was seen at Yanmen.
150
秋七月乙未，日青無光，八日乃復。 己亥，以大將軍段文振為雲州總管。 甲辰，上以疾甚，臥於仁壽宮，與百僚辭訣，並握手歔欷。 丁未，崩於大寶殿，時年六十四。 遺詔曰：
In autumn, the seventh month, on the day yiwei, the sun was green and without light; after eight days it returned to normal. On the day jihai, Duan Wenzhen, Grand General, was appointed Commander-in-Chief of Yun Province. On the day jiachen, as the emperor's illness was severe, he lay at Renshou Palace, took leave of the hundred officials, and clasped hands with them all, weeping. On the day dingwei, he died at Dabao Hall at the age of sixty-four. The testamentary edict stated:
151
嗟乎！ 自昔晉室播遷，天下喪亂，四海不一，以至周、齊，戰爭相尋，年將三百。 故割疆土者非一所，稱帝王者非一人，書軌不同，生人塗炭。 上天降鑒，爰命於朕，用登大位，豈關人力！ 故得撥亂反正，偃武修文，天下大同，聲教遠被，此又是天意欲寧區夏。 所以昧旦臨朝，不敢逸豫，一日萬機，留心親覽，晦明寒暑，不憚劬勞，匪曰朕躬，蓋為百姓故也。 王公卿士，每日闕庭，刺史以下，三時朝集，何嘗不罄竭心府，誡勑殷勤。 義乃君臣，情兼父子。 庶藉百僚智力，萬國歡心，欲令率土之人，永得安樂，不謂遘疾彌留，至於大漸。 此乃人生常分，何足言及！ 但四海百姓，衣食不豐，教化政刑，猶未盡善，興言念此，唯以留恨。 朕今年踰六十，不復稱夭，但筋力精神，一時勞竭。 如此之事，本非為身，止欲安養百姓，所以致此。
Alas! Since ancient times when the Jin court was driven into exile, the realm fell into disorder and the four seas were not united — down through Zhou and Qi, war followed war for nearly three hundred years. Thus those who carved out territories were not of one place, and those who called themselves emperors were not one man. Writing and cart-tracks differed, and the living were scorched in misery. Heaven sent down its scrutiny and entrusted the Mandate to me; by this I ascended the great throne — how could it depend on human effort alone! Therefore I was able to set right disorder and restore order, sheathe arms and cultivate letters, bring great unity to the realm, and extend teaching and influence far abroad — this again was Heaven's intent to bring peace to the central lands. For this reason I attend court at dawn and dare not indulge in ease. The myriad affairs of a day I personally review with care; through dark and light, cold and heat, I do not shrink from toil — this is not for my own body but for the sake of the people. Dukes, ministers, and scholars attend court daily; prefects and below assemble at court three times a day — when have I not exhausted my heart and admonished them earnestly? In righteousness we are ruler and minister; in feeling we are also like father and son. I hoped to rely on the intelligence of the hundred officials and the joy of the myriad states, wishing to make all within the realm forever secure and at ease — I did not expect to encounter lingering illness until the final decline. This is the common lot of human life — what is there worth speaking of! But the people of the four seas are not yet rich in food and clothing; teaching, government, and punishments are still not fully perfected — when I speak of this, I can only leave regret. I am now past sixty and can no longer be called early-dead; but sinew, strength, and spirit have been exhausted at once. Such a matter was originally not for myself — I only wished to settle and nurture the people; that is why it came to this.
152
人生子孫，誰不愛念，既為天下，事須割情。 勇及秀等，並懷悖惡，既知無臣子之心，所以廢黜。 古人有言：「知臣莫若於君，知子莫若於父。」 若令勇、秀得志，共治家國，必當戮辱徧於公卿，酷毒流於人庶。 今惡子孫已為百姓黜屏，好子孫足堪負荷大業。 此雖朕家事，理不容隱，前對文武侍衞，具已論述。 皇太子廣，地居上嗣，仁孝著聞，以其行業，堪成朕志。 但令內外羣官，同心戮力，以此共治天下，朕雖瞑目，何所復恨。
Who among men does not love his children? Yet having the realm as one's charge, one must set feeling aside. Yong, Xiu, and the others all harbored rebellious wickedness. Once it was known they lacked the heart of subject and son, they were deposed. The ancients said: "No one knows a minister better than his ruler; no one knows a son better than his father." If Yong and Xiu had gotten their way and jointly ruled the state and household, slaughter and humiliation would surely have spread among the grandees, and cruel poison would have flowed among the common people. Now the wicked descendants have been removed for the people's sake, and the good descendants are fully able to bear the great enterprise. Though this is my household affair, reason does not permit concealment; before the civil and military attendants I have already explained it in full. Crown Prince Guang occupies the position of heir; his benevolence and filial piety are renowned; by his conduct and achievement he can fulfill my intent. Only let officials inside and outside unite in one heart and one effort to govern the realm together — though my eyes close, what regret remains?
153
但國家事大，不可限以常禮。 既葬公除，行之自昔，今宜遵用，不勞改定。 凶禮所須，纔令周事。 務從節儉，不得勞人。 諸州總管、刺史已下，宜各率其職，不須奔赴。 自古哲王，因人作法，前帝後帝，沿革隨時。 律令格式，或有不便於事者，宜依前勑修改，務當政要。 嗚呼，敬之哉！ 無墜朕命！
But state affairs are great and cannot be limited by ordinary ritual. Ending public mourning after burial has been practiced from old; it should now be followed and need not be changed. What is needed for mourning rites should only suffice for completion. Strive for thrift and do not burden the people. Commanders-in-chief of provinces, prefects, and below should each perform their duties and need not rush to attend. Since ancient times sage kings have made law according to men; former emperors and later emperors have changed and followed the times. Where statutes, orders, regulations, and formats are inconvenient to affairs, they should be revised according to prior edicts, with attention to governmental essentials. Alas — be reverent! Do not fail my command!
154
乙卯，發喪。 河間楊柳四株無故黃落，既而花葉復生。
On the day yimao, mourning was announced. Four willow trees at Hejian turned yellow and dropped their leaves for no reason, then afterward blossoms and leaves grew again.
155
八月丁卯，梓宮至自仁壽宮。 丙子，殯于大興前殿。
In the eighth month, on the day dingmao, the coffin arrived from Renshou Palace. On the day bingzi, the body was placed in coffin at the front hall of Daxing.
156
冬十月己卯，合葬於太陵，同墳而異穴。
In winter, the tenth month, on the day jimao, joint burial was performed at Tailing — same mound but separate chambers.
157
上性嚴重，有威容，外質木而內明敏，有大略。 初，得政之始，羣情不附，諸子幼弱，內有六王之謀，外致三方之亂。 握強兵、居重鎮者，皆周之舊臣。 上推以赤心，各展其用，不踰朞月，克定三邊，[25]未及十年，平一四海。 薄賦歛，輕刑罰，內修制度，外撫戎夷。 每旦聽朝，日昃忘倦，居處服玩，務存節儉，令行禁止，上下化之。 開皇、仁壽之間，丈夫不衣綾綺，而無金玉之飾，常服率多布帛，裝帶不過以銅鐵骨角而已。 雖嗇於財，至於賞賜有功，亦無所愛吝。 乘輿四出，路逢上表者，則駐馬親自臨問。 或潛遣行人採聽風俗，吏治得失，人間疾苦，無不留意。 嘗遇關中饑，遣左右視百姓所食。 有得豆屑雜糠而奏之者，上流涕以示羣臣，深自咎責，為之徹膳不御酒肉者殆將一朞。 及東拜太山，關中戶口就食洛陽者，道路相屬。 上勑斥候，不得輒有驅逼，男女參廁於杖衞之間。 逢扶老携幼者，輒引馬避之，慰勉而去。 至艱險之處，見負擔者，遽令左右扶助之。 其有將士戰沒，必加優賞，仍令使者就家勞問。 自強不息，朝夕孜孜，人庶殷繁，帑藏充實。 雖未能臻於至治，亦足稱近代之良主。 然天性沉猜，素無學術，好為小數，不達大體，故忠臣義士莫得盡心竭辭。 其草創元勳及有功諸將，誅夷罪退，罕有存者。 又不悅詩書，廢除學校，唯婦言是用，廢黜諸子。 逮于暮年，持法尤峻，喜怒不常，過於殺戮。 嘗令左右送西域朝貢使出玉門關，其人所經之處，或受牧宰小物饋遺鸚鵡、麖皮、馬鞭之屬，上聞而大怒。 又詣武庫，見署中蕪穢不治，於是執武庫令及諸受遺者，出開遠門外，親自臨決，死者數十人。 又往往潛令人賂遺令史府史，有受者必死，無所寬貸。 議者以此少之。
The emperor's nature was stern and grave, with a dignified bearing; outwardly plain and wooden yet inwardly bright and keen, with great strategic vision. At the beginning, when he first gained power, popular sentiment was not attached to him; his sons were young and weak. Within there was plotting by the six princes, and without there was disorder on three fronts. Those who held strong armies and occupied weighty commands were all old ministers of Zhou. The emperor treated them with open heart and let each display his use. Within less than a year the three frontiers were pacified, [25] and in less than ten years the four seas were unified. He reduced taxes and lightened punishments, reformed institutions within and pacified the barbarians without. Each dawn he heard court until the sun slanted and he forgot weariness. In dwelling, dress, and enjoyments he strove for thrift; when orders were issued and prohibitions enforced, above and below were transformed. Between Kaihuang and Renshou, men did not wear gauze silk, and there was no ornament of gold or jade. Ordinary dress was mostly cloth and silk, and belts and fittings were no more than copper, iron, bone, and horn. Though sparing with wealth, in rewarding merit he was never stingy. When the imperial carriage went out on the four roads and met someone submitting a memorial, he would halt his horse and personally inquire. Or he secretly sent men to listen to local customs, the gains and losses of official governance, and the hardships of the people — none escaped his notice. Once when Guanzhong suffered famine, he sent attendants to see what the people were eating. When one reported bean husks mixed with chaff, the emperor wept and showed it to the assembled ministers, deeply blaming himself. For this he withdrew from the evening meal and did not touch wine or meat for nearly a year. When he went east to worship at Mount Tai, households from Guanzhong seeking food at Luoyang lined the road one after another. The emperor ordered the scouts not to drive or press them; men and women mingled among the guard staffs. When he met those supporting the old and leading the young, he would draw his horse aside to avoid them, comfort them, and then go on. At dangerous places, when he saw burden-bearers, he immediately ordered attendants to help them. When officers and soldiers fell in battle, he always added generous rewards and sent envoys to their homes to offer consolation. Unceasing in self-strengthening, diligent morning and evening, the people grew numerous and the treasury was filled. Though he could not reach perfect governance, he was enough to be called a good ruler of recent ages. Yet by nature he was deep and suspicious, utterly without learning, fond of petty calculations and not grasping the larger pattern — therefore loyal ministers and righteous men could not fully devote heart and words. Of the founding meritorious officials and the generals who had achieved merit, those executed, condemned, or dismissed — few remained. He also disliked poetry and the classics, abolished schools, listened only to women's words, and deposed his sons. In his later years he held the law especially stern; joy and anger were inconstant, and killing exceeded measure. Once he ordered attendants to escort Western Region tribute envoys out through Yumen Pass. Wherever they passed, if they received small gifts from local governors — parrots, deer hides, horsewhips, and the like — when the emperor heard of it he was greatly enraged. Again he went to the armory and saw the offices overgrown and untended. Thereupon he seized the armory director and all who had received gifts, took them outside Kaiyuan Gate, and personally supervised execution — several tens died. He also often secretly had men bribe clerks of the prefectures and departments; whoever accepted was put to death without pardon. Commentators for this reason slighted him.
158
史臣曰：高祖龍德在田，奇表見異，晦明藏用，故知我者希。 始以外戚之尊，受託孤之任，與能之議，未為當時所許，是以周室舊臣，咸懷憤惋。 既而王謙固三蜀之阻，不踰朞月，尉迥舉全齊之眾，一戰而亡，斯乃非止人謀，抑亦天之所贊也。 乘茲機運，遂遷周鼎。 于時蠻夷猾夏，荊、揚未一，劬勞日昃，經營四方。 樓船南邁則金陵失險，驃騎北指則單于款塞，職方所載，並入疆理，禹貢所圖，咸受正朔。 雖晉武之克平吳、會，漢宣之推亡固存，比義論功，不能尚也。 七德既敷，九歌已洽，要荒咸暨，尉候無警。 於是躬節儉，平徭賦，倉廩實，法令行，君子咸樂其生，小人各安其業，強無陵弱，眾不暴寡，人物殷阜，朝野歡娛。 二十年間，天下無事，區宇之內晏如也。 考之前王，足以參蹤盛烈。 但素無術學，不能盡下，無寬仁之度，有刻薄之資，暨乎暮年，此風逾扇。 又雅好符瑞，暗於大道，建彼維城，權侔京室，皆同帝制，靡所適從。 聽哲婦之言，惑邪臣之說，溺寵廢嫡，託付失所。 滅父子之道，開昆弟之隙，縱其尋斧，翦伐本枝。 墳土未乾，子孫繼踵屠戮，松檟纔列，天下已非隋有。 惜哉！ 迹其衰怠之源，稽其亂亡之兆，起自高祖，成於煬帝，所由來遠矣，非一朝一夕。 其不祀忽諸，未為不幸也。
The historian says: When Gaozu's dragon virtue was in the fields, his extraordinary form appeared strange. Hiding brightness and concealing his use, those who knew him were few. At first, by the dignity of a maternal relative, he received the charge of an orphaned state. The deliberation on capability was not approved by the age — therefore the old ministers of Zhou all harbored indignation. Then Wang Qian held the barrier of the three Shu and within less than a month was overcome; Yu Jiong raised the full host of Qi and was destroyed in one battle — this was not only human planning but also Heaven's assistance. Seizing this opportune movement, he thereupon moved the tripod of Zhou. At that time the barbarians troubled Xia, Jing and Yang were not yet united. He toiled from dawn to dusk and managed affairs on all four sides. When tower ships advanced south, Jinling lost its defenses; when the Rapid Cavalry pointed north, the Xiongnu submitted at the frontier. All recorded in the offices of duty entered the boundaries of rule, and all mapped in the Tribute of Yu received the correct calendar. Though Jin Wu conquered Wu and Kuaiji, and Han Xuan pushed the perishing and consolidated the surviving — comparing righteousness and weighing merit, they cannot be placed above this. Once the seven virtues were spread and the nine songs harmonized, the outermost lands all arrived and frontier scouts had no alarms. Thereupon he personally practiced thrift, equalized corvée and taxes, filled granaries, and enforced laws and orders. Gentlemen all rejoiced in life, commoners each settled in their work; the strong did not bully the weak, the many did not oppress the few. People and things flourished, and court and countryside were joyful. Within twenty years the realm had no affairs, and within the four quarters all was tranquil. Examining the former kings, he is enough to be compared with flourishing merit. But he was utterly without learning in the arts, could not fully defer to subordinates, lacked the measure of generous benevolence, and had the material of harshness — in his later years this tendency fanned ever stronger. He also by nature loved omens and portents, was dark to the Great Way, built those wall-cities, and made their authority equal to the capital — all on the imperial pattern, with nothing to follow. He listened to the words of a wise woman, was misled by wicked ministers, drowned favor and deposed the heir, and misplaced his trust. He extinguished the Way between father and son, opened a rift between brothers, indulged the search for the axe, and cut away the root branches. Before the grave mound was dry, sons and grandsons were slaughtered in succession; before the pine and cypress were set, the realm was already no longer Sui's. Alas! Tracing the source of his decline and slackening, examining the omens of disorder and ruin — it began with Gaozu and was completed with Emperor Yang. The origin was far-reaching and not of a single morning or evening. That his sacrifices ceased suddenly was not unlucky fortune.
159
校勘記
Collation Notes
160
任蠻奴即任忠。 隋人諱「忠」，改稱他的小字。
Ren Mannu — that is, Ren Zhong. The Sui people tabooed "Zhong" and changed it to his childhood name.
161
州三十應作「州四十」。 殿本考證 〈以下簡稱考證〉 「北史作『州四十』。 以地理志證之，北史是也。 志言陳氏荊、揚之域，州四十二，郡一百九，縣四百三十八。 紀言州四十，郡一百，縣四百，皆舉其大數耳。」
Thirty provinces — should read "forty provinces." Palace Edition Collation 〈hereinafter abbreviated as Collation〉 "The History of the Northern Dynasties reads 'forty provinces. Verified against the Treatise on Geography, the Northern Dynasties is correct. The Treatise states that in Chen's Jing and Yang regions there were forty-two provinces, one hundred nine commanderies, and four hundred thirty-eight counties. The Annals say forty provinces, one hundred commanderies, and four hundred counties — all give the round numbers."
162
辛丑此月乙酉朔，辛丑 (十七日) 應在丙午 (二十二日) 前。 紀文當有訛誤或顛倒。
Xinchou — this month's first day was yiyou; xinchou (seventeenth day) should be on bingwu (twenty-second day) before. The annal text must have an error or transposition.
163
五月甲子此月壬午朔，無甲子。 日干有誤。
Jiazi in the fifth month — this month's first day was renwu; there was no jiazi. The day stem is in error.
164
席代雅應作「席世雅」，唐人諱改。 周書有傳。
Xi Daiya — should read "Xi Shiya," changed to avoid Tang taboo. The History of Zhou has a biography.
165
壬申晦此月乙巳朔，晦日當在癸酉，不在壬申。
Renshen on the last day of the month — this month's first day was yisi; the last day should fall on guiyou, not on renshen.
166
韓建業「建」原作「達」，據本書五行志上、北史隋本紀上改。
Han Jianye — "Jian" originally read "Da"; changed according to this book's Treatise on the Five Phases, upper, and the Annals of Sui, upper, in the History of the Northern Dynasties.
167
丁亥此月辛未朔，丁亥 (十七日) 、戊子 (十八日) 不應在己卯 (九日) 前，紀文當有訛誤或顛倒。
Dinghai — this month's first day was xinwei; dinghai (seventeenth day) , wuzi (eighteenth day) should not be on jimao (ninth day) before; the annal text must have an error or transposition.
168
十月乙卯此月戊辰朔，無乙卯。 日干有誤。
Yimao in the tenth month — this month's first day was wuchen; there was no yimao. The day stem is in error.
169
梁彥光「光」原作「先」，據本書梁彥光傳、又來和傳及北史隋本紀上改。
Liang Yanguang — "Guang" originally read "Xian"; changed according to the Biography of Liang Yanguang in this book, the Biography of Lai He, and the Annals of Sui, upper, in the History of the Northern Dynasties.
170
九月己未此月壬辰朔，己未 (二十八日) 應在丁巳 (二十六日) 後，紀文當有訛誤或顛倒。
Jiwei in the ninth month — this month's first day was renchen; jiwei (twenty-eighth day) should be on dingsi (twenty-sixth day) after; the annal text must have an error or transposition.
171
正月丁亥此月甲寅朔，無丁亥。 按：北史隋本紀上作「二月丁亥」。 二月甲申朔，丁亥為四日，日序合。
Dinghai in the first month — this month's first day was jiayin; there was no dinghai. Note: the Annals of Sui, upper, in the History of the Northern Dynasties reads "dinghai in the second month." The second month's first day was jiashen; dinghai is the fourth day — the day sequence fits.
172
獨孤羅雲獨孤羅字羅仁。 此處舉名當稱獨孤羅，舉字當稱獨孤羅仁。 紀作獨孤羅雲，乃因上文「趙國公羅雲」 (陰壽字羅雲) 而衍一「雲」字，或誤改「仁」為「雲」 (獨孤羅也曾封趙國公)。 本書有傳。
Dugu Luoyun — Dugu Luo's style name was Luoren. When citing the name here one should say Dugu Luo; when citing the style name one should say Dugu Luoren. The Annals read Dugu Luoyun — this is because of "Duke of Zhao Luoyun" above (Yin Shou's style name was Luoyun) and an extra "yun" was derived, or "ren" was mistakenly changed to "yun" (Dugu Luo also once held the title Duke of Zhao) This book has a biography.
173
李代賢應作「李世賢」，唐人諱改。 書中或省稱「李賢」。
Li Daixian — should read "Li Shixian," changed to avoid Tang taboo. In the book he is sometimes abbreviated as "Li Xian."
174
銅獸符應作「銅虎符」，唐人諱改。
Bronze beast tally tokens — should read "bronze tiger tally tokens," changed to avoid Tang taboo.
175
五月辛亥此月辛未朔，無辛亥。 日干有誤。
Xinhai in the fifth month — this month's first day was xinwei; there was no xinhai. The day stem is in error.
176
利可汗應作「突利可汗」，見本書突厥傳。 下同。
Li Khan — should read "Tuli Khan," as seen in the Biography of the Turks in this book. The same below.
177
啟人可汗應作「啟民可汗」，唐人諱改。
Qiren Khan — should read "Qimin Khan," changed to avoid Tang taboo.
178
丁丑此月丁酉朔，無丁丑，本書天文志下作「十二月乙未」。 按：十二月壬辰朔，乙未為四日，日序合。
Dingchou — this month's first day was dingyou; there was no dingchou. The Treatise on Astronomy, lower, in this book reads "yiwei in the twelfth month." Note: the twelfth month's first day was renchen; yiwei is the fourth day — the day sequence fits.
179
楊祀當作「楊文紀」。 此處「紀」訛為「祀」，又省「文」字。 本書有傳。
Yang Si — should read "Yang Wenji." Here "ji" was written in error as "si," and the character "wen" was omitted. This book has a biography.
180
張喬「喬」當作「奫」。 本書有傳。
Zhang Qiao — "Qiao" should read "Yun." This book has a biography.
181
四月乙卯此月丙寅朔，無乙卯。 日干有誤。
Yimao in the fourth month — this month's first day was bingyin; there was no yimao. The day stem is in error.
182
六月庚申「庚申」，本書天文志下作庚午，北史隋本紀上同。 按：此月乙丑朔，庚午為六日，日序合。
Gengshen in the sixth month — "gengshen": the Treatise on Astronomy, lower, in this book reads gengwu; the Annals of Sui, upper, in the History of the Northern Dynasties agrees. Note: this month's first day was yichou; gengwu is the sixth day — the day sequence fits.
183
克定三邊「三」原作「二」。 北史隋本紀上、冊府元龜 〈以下簡稱冊府〉 一八作「克定三邊」。 指尉遲迥、司馬消難、王謙「三方之亂」。 今據改。
Pacified the three frontiers — "three" originally read "two." Annals of Sui, upper, in the History of the Northern Dynasties; Prime Tortoise of the Bookstore 〈hereinafter abbreviated as Prime Tortoise〉 1.8 reads "pacified the three frontiers." Referring to the "disorder on three fronts" of Yuchi Jiong, Sima Xiaonan, and Wang Qian. The text is now emended accordingly.