Edict 1SZ-02-01

To All Our Subjects, 

''Our civilisation, and all its glories, has always been founded on agriculture. On the unceasing toil of the humble farmer, and the munificent gifts of the earth and sky, all works of greater men rely. ''

''The Emperor's ploughing of the first furrow is the embodiment of this truth. We, too, participate in the humblest of labours, and use this as a mirror to reflect upon our daily work. The duties of all the Court and the subjects are towards us and the dynasty; our duty, in turn, is to Heaven, and to the diligence that pleases Heaven and nurtures the people. ''

''Let this reflection be repeated in you as well, officials. Plough well, and work hard; remove the weeds from your fields with care. Clean and order your furrows, but pay heed to the welfare of the smallest seedling that will grow into rice. In doing this, order will arise by itself!''