Religion
The Léeh Wan
Translated by James Legge (1876) · From The She King (1876), Part IV, Book I
Ye brilliant and accomplished lords,
Who with your help my worship crown,
The favours that your grace affords
My sons in future reigns shall own.
Ever in your own States eschew
Alike all greed and wastefulness ;
So shall the king still honour you;
And when your present services
He calls to mind, your sons shall know
New honours he will oft bestow.
Let each be strong, and play the man ;
So shall your induence be great.
Ever in virtue lead the van ;—
All chiefs your course will imitate.
The former kings in mind still bear ;
What glory can with theirs compare ?
Codex Note
A song in praise of the princes who have assisted at a sacrifice.
Cite this poem
MLA
Shi Jing (The Book of Songs). “The Léeh Wan.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/shi-jing/264/.
Chicago
Shi Jing (The Book of Songs). “The Léeh Wan.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/shi-jing/264/.
Read this poem with the Codex →