禪林寶訓 3.36

3.36

Shantang said: "In the method of governing subordinates, grace must not be excessive; if excessive, they will become arrogant. Authority must not be excessively severe; if severe, it will breed resentment. If one desires grace without arrogance and authority without resentment, grace must be bestowed on the meritorious and must not be improperly granted to people; authority must be applied to the guilty and must not indiscriminately reach the innocent. Therefore, though grace is generous, people will have no cause for arrogance; though authority is strict, people will have no cause for resentment. If merit is perhaps not worthy of praise yet the reward given is already lavish, or if guilt is not worthy of blame yet the punishment is extremely heavy, this will cause petty men to naturally give rise to arrogance and resentment." (Letter to Minister Zhang)