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The Book of Poetry, tr. by James Legge, [1876], at sacred-texts.com


p. 375

VII

The Chiung Cho; allusive. The most unlikely things may by human ingenuity be made useful; how much more should a sovereign fulfill the duties of his position!

1Bring water from the distant pool,
  And let it settle in a jar.
Millet or rice ’twill steam—such use
  May come from things that paltry are.
You are our happy, courteous king;
  On you a noble duty lies.
Father and mother, joined in one,
  With all the people sympathize!

2Bring water from the distant pool,
  And let it settle in a jar.
A spirit vase ’twill wash;—such use
  May come from things that paltry are.
You are our happy, courteous king,
  Born subject to a noble law.
Like center to which all should turn,
  So you the people ever draw. p. 376

3Bring water from the distant pool,
  And let it settle in a jar.
All things ’twill serve to cleanse;—such use
  May come from things that paltry are.
You are our happy, courteous king,
  Set to fulfill a noble end.
The center in which all have rest,
  The people's hearts to you should tend.


Next: VIII. Chüan O