Chapter 10, Three Character Classic
"Yes, I obey your command!" Li Yun immediately bowed and saluted. At the same time, he silently exclaimed in his heart: Finally, I no longer have to attend school with this group of little brats
"You insolent little brat, if you can find a better primer for children's education than the Thousand Character Classic, I will immediately retire to my hometown!" Confucius gritted his teeth and said, eager to see what tricks this crippled King Liang could come up with.
Li Yin's expression changed dramatically at this point, and with a solemn demeanor, he continued, "The child, Zizi, is only three years old. In terms of both literacy foundation and comprehension ability, she is far inferior to the six-year-old children required for school enrollment. Furthermore, although the 'Thousand Character Classic' is beautifully written and adorned with elegant phrases, it is intended as an introductory reading for young children. However, it is inherently sophisticated, making it difficult even for six-year-olds to understand, let alone for a three-year-old girl like Zizi. Therefore, I believe it is a mistake for the Master to teach Zizi the 'Thousand Character Classic' at this time."
Father! Before everyone could straighten up, the little child rushed to Li Shimin's side. Just now, she had endured quite a bit of grievance from the old master, unable to cry out of fear. Now, upon seeing her father, she immediately ran over, her big eyes brimming with tears, looking exceedingly pitiful
The Master spoke highly of it. The student has just completed a new work titled "Three Character Classic." Although it cannot be said to be better than the "Thousand Character Classic," it is concise and rhythmic, with content that is simple, straightforward, and easy to understand. While its literary quality may not match that of the "Thousand Character Classic," it is indeed more suitable for young children like Erzi. Although the "Thousand Character Classic" is a classic, when it comes to the most influential and representative texts in early education, the "Three Character Classic" is undoubtedly the foremost, earning it the title of "Crown of Early Education" in later generations. Therefore, Li Yin's words are not merely fabricated.
Hahaha, I told you long ago that school is not as fun as you think, yet you insisted on coming. Now you are suffering the consequences!" Li Shimin said as he hugged the child in his arms and laughed.
Oh? The old master, filled with rage, laughed instead and pointed at Li Yun, saying, "Then tell me, where did I go wrong?"
"The article is naturally formed, and the exquisite phrases are occasionally obtained," what a good sentence! What a good sentence! To be able to produce such a fine phrase, the talent of Liang Wang is indeed admirable, and this three-character classic must be no less remarkable. At this moment, another old man with a white beard jumped out to support Li Yun. However, the way this old man looked at Li Yun was quite strange; it was not the gaze of a minister looking at a prince, but rather that of a loving elder gazing at a younger generation. Could he be a member of the Li clan?
Master, this Three Character Classic consists of six main parts, but the student has only written the first three parts for now. The remaining three parts include the classics of various philosophers, history, and the attitudes of students towards learning; however, the student has not yet decided how to write them.
Playing tricks? Indeed, Li Yin is playing tricks. Ever since he arrived in the Tang Dynasty, he has been contemplating this issue. After much thought, he could not come up with a good reason, so he decided to simply play tricks. As long as he firmly insists that he has been turned into a genius, what does it matter if others doubt him? After all, there is no evidence to prove that he is lying
"Hmm," Li Shimin's expression darkened. With his wisdom and martial prowess, how could he have overlooked this point? However, the previous actions of his several children had caused him to lose face, and it was entirely due to Li Yin's half-verse of the Three Character Classic that he managed to turn the tide. Thus, even though he harbored some doubts, he was unwilling to question this son in front of others. Yet, unexpectedly, the usually astute Zhangsun Wuji actually brought it up directly. In truth, Li Shimin understood that as the maternal uncle of the Crown Prince, Zhangsun Wuji would never miss an opportunity to suppress the other princes, lest any of them pose a threat to the Crown Prince's position. Therefore, even though he had some doubts, he was reluctant to question this son in front of others. Yet, unexpectedly, the usually astute Zhangsun Wuji actually brought it up directly. In truth, Li Shimin understood that as the maternal uncle of the Crown Prince, Zhangsun Wuji would never miss an opportunity to suppress the other princes, lest any of them pose a threat to the Crown Prince's position.
Li Yin observed the expression of the old master and probably guessed his current thoughts. Thus, he ceased to engage in further trivialities and began reciting the Three Character Classic: "At the beginning, human nature is inherently good. Human natures are similar, but habits diverge. If not taught, nature will change..."
What Lord Wei said is indeed true! At this moment, another voice, somewhat effeminate, was heard. The speaker was a middle-aged handsome man with a fair complexion and black beard. Unlike Comrade Old Li, who embodies a more masculine charm, this gentleman leans towards a more delicate demeanor. "However, I must extend my congratulations to Your Majesty. Prince Liang is only fourteen years old and, having heard that he was injured not long ago, he is still able to display such talent. This is truly a blessing for Your Majesty!"
When Comrade Lao Li saw that his inept sixth son not only refused to study but also folded paper to entice his younger sister to play, his face turned ashen with anger. The ministers behind him either shook their heads with a light laugh or displayed disdain. Subsequently, the even more inept eighth son, Li Zhen, actually snatched his sister's paper, which made Comrade Lao Li feel even more embarrassed in front of his officials. Furthermore, Li Zhi's betrayal of his elder brother directly plunged Lao Li into despair; the behavior of these three rascals was truly shameful.
As soon as the elder's words were spoken, they immediately elicited a chorus of agreement. It was evident that this elder held great esteem among the ministers, with even many of the indifferent military officials nodding in approval. Comrade Old Li, in particular, wore a proud smile, seemingly relishing the current atmosphere
It turned out that there were hardly any significant matters to report in the court today. After dealing with some trivial issues, Li Shimin thought of his beloved daughter, Zizi, who was starting school for the first time. On a whim, he decided to bring along the civil and military officials to pay her a visit. In fact, while Li Yin was folding paper for Zizi to play with, Li Shimin and the officials had already arrived outside the window. However, both Li Yin and Zizi were so engrossed in their activities—one folding and the other playing—that the other students, either reading or writing, were also oblivious to the outside, resulting in no one noticing.
The Zizi indeed made a mistake, but so did the *Tushi* Master!" Li Yin faced the old master's fury, yet remained unperturbed. He had been troubled about how to save the Zizi, when suddenly a remark from the old master sparked a flash of inspiration in him, and he immediately devised a plan, which prompted him to shout loudly.
Next, Comrade Lao Li delivered a speech, which was nothing more than encouraging the students to study hard and strive for progress every day, lacking any novelty. Taking this opportunity, Li Yun asked Li Zhi to introduce the names of the civil and military officials present, so that at least he could address them by name the next time they met. The old man with the white beard who supported him turned out to be Xiao Yu, the grandfather of Li Yun's fiancée, which explained why he had just helped him.
"Yin'er, was that three-character classic just now composed by you?" Comrade Old Li asked kindly, which made Li Yin feel quite uncomfortable. The last time he saw himself, this emperor was not so warm towards him.
"Good, good, good! I promise you, if what you say makes sense, Princess Jinyang can be exempted from punishment!" The old scholar trembled with anger; in his view, this Liang Wang, who had been reduced to a cripple, could hardly recognize a few characters. If he were to articulate any profound reasoning, that would truly be a miracle.
Li Yun recited, "This ten meanings, shared by all people," when he suddenly stopped. The Three Character Classic can be divided into six parts based on its content. He has already memorized the first three parts, but he thought to himself that he is currently playing the role of Li Yun, the King of Liang, who barely knows a few characters. If he were to recite the entire book at once, would that not be too extraordinary?
As for shamelessly attributing the authorship of the "Three Character Classic" to himself, Li Yin also has his own plans. He now needs to present a completely new image to cleanse his original bad reputation, change the public's perception of him, and most importantly, alter his father's impression of him, striving to secure a good position for himself, so that he can live a carefree life without worries. Gaining fame through literature is undoubtedly the best approach, as it is both quick and convenient. After all, he has memorized quite a bit of classical poetry; wouldn't it be a waste not to put it to use? Most importantly, he needs to change his father's impression of him, striving to secure a good position for himself, so that he can live a carefree life without worries. Gaining fame through literature is undoubtedly the best approach, as it is both quick and convenient. After all, he has memorized quite a bit of classical poetry; wouldn't it be a waste not to put it to use?
Hehe, no need for formalities!" Li Shimin smiled brightly, originally thinking that he had lost all face in front of his ministers. However, he did not expect that Li Yin's half of the Thousand Character Classic would restore his dignity. Observing the astonished and admiring gazes of the ministers behind him made him, as a father, feel quite proud.
Next, the old master was completely immersed in the rich content of the "Three Character Classic." As Li Yin recited with great depth and resonance, the old master began to shake his head and sway, and a hint of an intoxicated smile gradually appeared on his face. He is a contemporary Confucian scholar who has dedicated decades to early childhood education, and he is very familiar with almost all enlightenment materials. However, he had never encountered such a straightforward and easily comprehensible article.
"Your Majesty, I believe that this Three Character Classic is indeed as the Liang King has said: the phrases are concise and powerful, easy to recite, and the content is simple and straightforward, making it a rare and valuable primer for young children. I respectfully request that the Liang King complete this text and then distribute it throughout the realm, so as to better awaken the intelligence of the young ones." An old minister, thin in stature with white whiskers, stood up and spoke. If anyone else had said these words, it might have seemed like flattery, but this thin old minister had a righteous expression, and his tone was neither servile nor overbearing, exuding an air of integrity. If anyone else had said these words, it might have seemed like flattery, but this thin old minister had a righteous expression, and his tone was neither servile nor overbearing, exuding an air of integrity.
The intricate thoughts and clever constructions are commendable, yet the depth of knowledge may not be sufficient. The harmony of sounds and rhythms is indeed important, but it should also be memorized... At the end of his story, Li Yin cast a glance at the old master, and the audience understood the unspoken words.
"Your Majesty, as the saying goes, 'Those who survive great calamities will surely have future blessings.' During my recent severe injury and unconsciousness, it seemed that I received assistance from divine beings. Although I have lost my previous memories, I have come to understand many truths that I could not grasp before, and my perspective on various matters has undergone significant changes. I have even made considerable progress in my studies. Given the stark differences between myself and the former Li Yin, it is certain that some will question this. Therefore, I have already prepared an explanation. With a calm expression, I continued, 'Although I am not well-versed in characters, I am confident that my understanding of the principles in books is no less than anyone else's. Moreover, I often have flashes of inexplicable phrases in my mind. For instance, this Three Character Classic was composed in a moment of inspiration, and even I cannot comprehend why I was able to create such a fine piece of writing. However, 'the article is naturally formed, and it is a stroke of genius that occasionally occurs.' Perhaps it is Heaven that, through my hand, allows this text to be passed down in the world.'"
When Li Shimin finally saw that Zizi was to be punished with a ruler, although he felt reluctant in his heart, it was Zizi's own choice to attend school, and one must abide by the rules of the school. Therefore, even though it pained him, he could only endure it. However, to his surprise, Li Yin actually spoke up to stop Confucius, and then cleverly challenged him to a bet, ultimately reciting a Three-Character Classic that was no less impressive than the Thousand-Character Classic.
At the beginning of human life, nature is inherently good. Although human natures are similar, habits can differ greatly. Indeed! Indeed! The text is concise yet rich and vivid in content, truly a primer that can stand alongside the Thousand Character Classic. Just as Li Yun was feeling pleased, a familiar voice suddenly praised from outside the window. Following that, the sound of many footsteps could be heard, and before long, a middle-aged man dressed in a dragon robe, accompanied by a group of people, entered the classroom; it was none other than Emperor Li Shimin of the Tang Dynasty.
"Alright! Then recite your masterpiece for the master to see how it surpasses the Thousand Character Classic!" The old master said weakly, suddenly realizing how ridiculous he was. Here he was, a contemporary scholar with vast knowledge, debating the merits of the Thousand Character Classic with a young man who barely recognized a few characters. Wasn't that laughable?
Indeed, the Master truly understands the greater principles! Li Yun smiled slightly in praise, which elicited a cold snort from Confucius.
Puh! The old master nearly spat out a mouthful of blood, and his gaze towards Li Yin was filled with a desire to slap him to death. He had expected him to present some great work of a Confucian scholar, but to his surprise, it was something he had written himself. With someone like you, who can't even recognize all the characters, what good could you possibly write? Moreover, you shamelessly named it 'Classic.' The only texts that can be considered classics are the 'I Ching,' 'Book of Songs,' 'Book of Documents,' 'Rites of Zhou,' 'Rituals,' 'Book of Rites,' and the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' with their three commentaries. This kid is simply fearless in his ignorance.
"Your Majesty (Father Emperor)!" Upon seeing Li Shimin enter, Confucius and the students hurriedly paid their respects. The Tang Dynasty was not like later times, where kneeling was common; generally, kneeling occurred only during formal ceremonies or sacrifices, and in this place of learning, only the customary academic bow was necessary.
Low-key! Low-key! Although Li Yin tried his best to present a humble demeanor, the pride in his eyes was impossible to conceal. When he spoke, a self-satisfied smile unconsciously appeared at the corners of his mouth, finally managing to astonish this stubborn old scholar.
Li Yin, do you wish to intercede for Princess Jinyang?" The old master furrowed his brows and said with a face full of anger. No one dared to interrupt him while he was punishing a student, not even the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, Li Shimin. This was because he practiced Confucian law, representing the entirety of Confucianism, and even the emperor, who embodied imperial authority, would not dare to easily test the law with his own actions
Li Yin's cryptic statement left everyone present in a state of astonishment. The meaning behind Li Yin's words was quite simple: he directly informed them that although he had suffered a head injury and lost his memory, he had transformed into a genius. What is a genius? It is someone who possesses innate talent. If you cannot comprehend why I am able to write such exquisite articles, then that is precisely the point, for I am a genius! Throughout history, many have claimed to be geniuses, and I am no exception!
The three-character verses are extremely easy to recite, flowing smoothly off the tongue. From the first line of Li Yun, "At the beginning of man, nature is inherently good," Confucius felt a jolt of energy. As the verses continued, his expression grew increasingly astonished, until Li Yun recited, "Without learning, one does not know righteousness." At that moment, Confucius was so excited that his face turned crimson, and his hand, which gently stroked his beard, trembled slightly. His gaze towards Li Yun transformed from initial disdain to shock, and then to fervor, for he witnessed the birth of a true genius before his very eyes. Confucius was filled with excitement, his face flushed, and his hand trembling as he stroked his beard. His gaze towards Li Yun shifted from disdain to astonishment and then to fervor, as he recognized the emergence of a genuine talent right in front of him.
Hmph! You... you are simply being unreasonable! The Thousand Character Classic was composed by the great scholar Zhou Xingsi of the Southern Dynasties. Its text is intricately crafted, rich in knowledge, and harmonious in sound and rhythm, making it most suitable for young children to memorize. How can someone like you, a mere child, dare to slander it? The old master was incensed by Li Yun's outrageous words, his anger soaring to the heavens. In his fury, he no longer cared about Li Yun's status, even resorting to calling him a mere child. The surrounding youngsters, including Li Zhi, were left dumbfounded by Li Yun's words. Since the beginning of their schooling, they had never witnessed anyone daring to confront the master so directly, which commanded their admiration and turned their gazes toward Li Yun with newfound respect.
"Hmm, not bad, not bad! What do you all think?" Taizong looked at the officials with a smile on his face, resembling a father proudly showcasing his son
"Master, if what I say is reasonable, can the child be exempt from punishment?" Li Yin deeply bowed and said.
Well, Liu Lang, since you have encountered such a remarkable opportunity, you should make good use of your talents and do more beneficial things for the country and the people. Starting tomorrow, you need not come here to attend school; instead, complete the "Three Character Classic" at home as soon as possible, and then submit it to the Ministry of Rites for promotion as a foundational educational material for young children. Although Li Shimin harbored doubts about Li Yin's reasoning, he did not wish to question him at this moment. After all, he is his son, and any matters can be discussed privately later.
This white-bearded old man clearly holds great prestige among the ministers. As soon as he spoke, a wave of praise for Li Yun immediately followed, making Li Yun feel somewhat embarrassed.
Although Li Yin had stopped, the old master continued to shake his head and was deeply immersed in thought, only coming to his senses after quite a while. Most of the students around had a solid foundation, and they could understand a good deal of the Three Character Classic that Li Yin recited. Moreover, since Li Yin claimed it was his own work, the looks directed at him were filled with admiration. Even Si Zi was no exception, despite not understanding a single word.
Changsun Wuji! Perhaps Li Yin's memory of this person was too profound, as the moment Li Yin saw him, the name immediately flashed through his mind. Damn, this guy is not a good person; it seems he is boasting about himself, but secretly he is reminding others. How could a young and amnesiac Prince Liang, who does not even recognize characters, possibly write the classic primer "Three Character Classic"? As for the one he referred to as Lord Wei, could it be Wei Zheng? No wonder he has such great esteem among the officials.
The civil and military officials present were not fools; everyone understood the intricacies involved. Each of them watched with great interest as Li Yun prepared to respond to the direct challenge posed by Changsun Wuji.
Your Majesty, I must confess that the Three Character Classic was indeed composed by me during my idle moments at the residence. Although I feel somewhat guilty, now that the words have been spoken, I can only brace myself and proceed.
Just now, the Master said, "The Thousand Character Classic is the foundation of elementary education, as simple as conversation, easy to recite and remember." This statement is fundamentally correct. Li Yun cleared his throat and then spoke slowly, "However, the mistake lies in the fact that while this statement may be correct for me or for the other students present, it is utterly wrong for the three-year-old child."