chinese philosophy, cosmic justice, historical anecdotes, karma, karmic retribution, moral choices, song dynasty, traditional chinese culture

Karma and Consequences: Tales of Moral Retribution in Traditional Chinese Culture

The concept of moral retribution is fundamental in traditional Chinese culture. The saying “People act, Heaven watches” implies that every choice between good and evil shapes your future. Regardless of modern belief, this principle continues to influence actions and events. The Song Dynasty scholar Hong Mai documented various actual events of karmic retribution in his ...

Mikel Davis

Rock painted with the Yin-Yang symbol sits on a beach.

The Unconventional Hero Ji Gong: A Tale of Deception and Salvation

During the Song Dynasty, a story unfolded that would echo through the ages, a tale of cunning, bravery, and the unexpected heroism of the mad monk Ji Gong. Though centuries old, this narrative carries a timeless message that resonates even with the modern world, particularly when we consider the dangers and deceptions that lurk in ...

Max Lu

Illustration of a monk in traditional Chinese robes carrying a tattered fan and standing in a Chinese village with a suspicious looking character behind him.

Public Sector Work Is a Good Opportunity to Help Others

In the Song Dynasty (960-1279), Ma Mo was the governor of Dengzhou in Shandong Province. He found a problem with the regulation of holding prisoners on the island of Shamen and had to devise a good solution. According to the rule of the Song Dynasty, the number of prisoners that could be held on Salmon ...

Emma Lu

A closeup view of jail cell iron bars casting shadows on the prison floor.

Finding Home Within: Su Dongpo’s Philosophy of Inner Peace

In classical Chinese literature, the phrase “Where the heart is at ease, there lies my homeland” from the poem Calming the Stormy Seas by Su Shi, also known as Su Dongpo, resonates deeply with many. This poem, written for his friend Wang Dingguo’s concubine Rou Nu, encapsulates a universally admired sentiment — achieving inner peace ...

Mikel Davis

Sunlight shining through dark clouds on the ocean.

Embracing Harmony and Tolerance: Wisdom From Ancient China

Tolerance, patience, generosity, and kindness are easily spoken of, but they are challenging to embody, especially in today’s fast-paced world. In interpersonal dealings, the ability to show tolerance is not just admirable, but is also instrumental in resolving conflicts. Stories from ancient China, steeped in traditional culture, offer insightful examples of how these virtues were ...

Mikel Davis

Huashan mountain in China.

The Diplomatic Masterstroke of Emperor Taizu of Song

In 964, Emperor Taizu of Song quelled the Southern Tang and was poised to continue his conquest by taking the kingdom of Wuyue. Unexpectedly, King Qian Chu of Wuyue personally visited him, presenting a map of his territory as a token of submission. A warm reception Emperor Taizu was delighted by Qian Chu’s visit, inviting ...

Mikel Davis

Chinese painting of Emperor Taizu of Song.

The Acupuncture of the Song Dynasty

Medical acupuncture seems to be the unnoticed sibling of modern medicine. Despite modern misconceptions that view traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as slower than modern medicine in treating illnesses, ancient Chinese medical texts are filled with instances where diseases were cured swiftly. Many complex and stubborn illnesses, unresponsive to medications, were healed instantly through acupuncture. Modern ...

Hermann Rohr

Silver needles for traditional Chinese acupuncture medicine on a wooden table.

The Tale of Wang Gongchen: The Honest Scholar of the Song Dynasty

In the annals of history, countless examples of individuals have risen from humble beginnings to achieve great things. One such person is Wang Gongchen, a scholar from the Song Dynasty whose story of honesty and integrity continues to inspire even today.  Wang Gongchen’s early life Born into a poor family, Wang Gongchen lost his father ...

Max Lu

Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains, by the Yuan Dynasty painter Huang Guangwang (1269 - 1354)., Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368), ink on paper hand scroll.

Ancient Tale: The Emperor’s Savior

Initially serving under Emperor Chai Shizong of the Later Zhou Dynasty, Zhao Kuangyin (known as Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty) was just an ordinary general. One day, he found himself embroiled in a deadly battle with the enemy. Zhao Kuangyin was in the thick of the fight when suddenly, an arrow struck his warhorse ...

Mikel Davis

Mural showing an ancient Chinese warrior with his horse.

The Mystery of Go, the Strategy Game

In the palace, Emperor Taizong of the Song Dynasty played the game of Go with Jia Yuan, one of his officials. Playing Go with the Emperor was always problematic, as winning or losing was quite a significant matter. Therefore, playing the game required much care and attention.  Taizong always gave Jia three moves when playing ...

Helen London

The game of Go.