鐔津文集 17.22

17.22

In deep obscurity, I chanced upon a true elder, / Who conferred upon me a scroll of a book. / In the deep forest, I met a recluse, / Who gave me an axe and a hoe. / 'What are an axe and hoe for?' / 'To cultivate timber and vegetables. / Overgrown weeds must be cleared away, / Allowing them to flourish freely.' / 'What is this bestowed book meant for?' / 'To instruct your mind and body. / Learning must begin with rectifying oneself; / Only when self-ordered does it extend to the rest.' / In this purpose lies fine instruction; / Wearing it close, I have never cast it aside. / How is it that the drifting multitude / Persist in their own errors, thinking they are right? / Accustomed to each other, they form vulgar ways, / Devoid of virtue, bearing crooked, deformed bodies. / I have composed these rustic verses, / Entrusting you to transmit them all.