Chunqiu Gongyang Zhuan — 春秋公羊傳, traditionally from the oral teaching of Gongyang Gao, set down in writing under the Han

The Chunqiu, the Spring and Autumn Annals, is the terse official chronicle of the state of Lu, recording little more than a bare line or two per event across two and a half centuries; Confucius is traditionally credited with compiling or editing it, though the tradition cannot be verified from the text itself. Three separate commentarial traditions grew up around this bare chronicle — the Zuo, the Gongyang, and the Guliang — each reading the same terse entries in its own way. The Gongyang Commentary is traditionally traced to the oral teaching of Gongyang Gao, said to stand several generations in a line of transmission from Confucius's own disciples, and to have been set down in writing by his descendants under the Han; the tradition cannot be verified independently of the text itself.

Unlike the Zuo Commentary's narrative history, the Gongyang Commentary is a catechism: nearly every annal entry is followed by a chain of questions and answers — What is meant by this wording? Why does the text say it this way and not another? What is criticized, or praised, or concealed? — that reads the chronicle's smallest choices of phrasing as deliberate moral judgments. This file carries the commentary duke by duke, from Duke Yin's first year down through Ai's fourteenth, the point at which the Chunqiu itself traditionally closes: the capture of a lin, a benevolent portent-beast, on a western hunt, which Confucius is said to have wept over, saying his Way was exhausted. The commentary's closing exchange asks directly why Confucius composed the Chunqiu at all, and answers that he meant to set a disordered age back toward correctness.

Each entry is set out in the source's own two layers, kept visible here: the bare chronicle line marked in bold as Annals, followed by the catechism marked as Gongyang. Names of persons, states, and places appear in Hanyu pinyin without tone marks; several small states share a pinyin spelling with a larger one under this convention — Qi (杞), an old Xia-descended state, and Qi (齊), the great eastern power, chief among them — and are kept apart in this file by giving the Chinese character in parentheses at each occurrence. Mourning terms are graded by rank exactly as the commentary itself explains them: beng for the Son of Heaven, hong for a feudal lord, zu for a grandee, bulu for an officer.

Translated for the Good Works Library directly from the classical Chinese, printed in full below. A complete published English translation of the Gongyang Commentary already exists — Harry Miller's The Gongyang Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals: A Full Translation (2015) — so this translation makes no claim of firstness; it was made independently from the Chinese without consulting Miller's work.

Contents

• Duke Yin (隱公)
• Duke Huan (桓公)
• Duke Zhuang (莊公)
• Duke Min (閔公)
• Duke Xi (僖公)
• Duke Wen (文公)
• Duke Xuan (宣公)
• Duke Cheng (成公)
• Duke Xiang (襄公)
• Duke Zhao (昭公)
• Duke Ding (定公)
• Duke Ai (哀公)

Translation

Duke Yin (隱公)

Year 1 (隱公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Gongyang. What is meant by "the first year"? It is the ruler's initial year. What is meant by "spring"? It is the beginning of the year. Who is meant by "the king"? It means King Wen. Why does the text say "the king" before it says "the first month"? Because it is the king's first month. Why speak of "the king's first month"? To exalt the great unity [of all under one standard]. Why does the text not say that the duke "acceded to the throne"? To complete the duke's own intention. In what way does it complete the duke's intention? The duke meant to pacify the state and then hand it back to Huan (桓). Why hand it back to Huan? Huan was young but of noble birth, while Yin was elder but of humbler birth; the difference in their standing was slight, and the people of the state did not know of it. Yin, being elder, was moreover worthy, and the various grandees pulled Yin forward and set him up as ruler. If Yin at that point had declined to be set up, it was not yet certain that Huan would in the end be able to be set up. Moreover, if Huan had been set up, it was feared that the various grandees would not be able to serve as ministers to so young a ruler; therefore, in every respect, Yin's accession was undertaken for Huan's sake. Since Yin was elder and moreover worthy, why was it not fitting that he be set up? In establishing the legitimate heir, one goes by age, not by worth; in establishing among sons, one goes by the nobility of the mother, not by age. Why was Huan noble? Because his mother was noble. If the mother is noble, why then is the son noble? The son is noble through the mother, and the mother is noble through the son.

Annals. In the third month, the duke and Yifu of Zhulou (邾婁儀父) covenanted at Mei (眛).

Gongyang. What does "and" mean? It means "together with." "Meeting" (會), "and" (及), and "together with" (暨) all mean "together with." Why does the text sometimes say "meeting," sometimes "and," and sometimes "together with"? "Meeting" is close in sense to "the foremost"; "and" is close in sense to eager urgency; "together with" is close in sense to firm necessity. In the case of "and," it was because we desired it; in the case of "together with," it was because there was no choice. Who is Yifu? He is the ruler of Zhulou. Why is he referred to by what appears to be a name? It is in fact his courtesy name. Why is he styled by his courtesy name? To praise him. Why praise him? Because he covenanted with the duke. Many have covenanted with the duke — why is he alone praised here? Because there was reason to praise him, he is praised. In what way was there reason to praise him here? Because it marked a gradual advance toward higher standing. What is Mei? It is the place appointed for the meeting.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the Earl of Zheng overcame Duan (段) at Yan (鄢).

Gongyang. What does "overcame" mean here? It means "killed him." If he killed him, why then does the text call it "overcame"? To magnify the wickedness of the Earl of Zheng. Why magnify the wickedness of the Earl of Zheng? Their mother wished to have Duan set up as ruler, and he himself killed him — it would have been better simply not to have granted him anything at all. Who is Duan? He is the younger brother of the Earl of Zheng. Why is he not styled "younger brother"? Because he was one who controlled the state, as a rival power within it. Why is the place named? Because he was one who controlled the state. When the men of Qi killed Wuzhi, why is no place named? Because it happened within the state. When it happens within the state, even if the person controlled the state, no place is named. When the person did not control the state, even if it happened outside, no place is named either.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Heavenly King sent Steward Xuan (宰咺) to come and bring the funeral gifts for Duke Hui (惠公) and Zhongzi (仲子).

Gongyang. What is "steward"? It is an office. What is "Xuan"? It is a personal name. Why is he identified by his office rather than by a clan name? Because he was an officer of the steward's bureau, of low rank. Who is Duke Hui? He is Yin's deceased father. Who is Zhongzi? She is Huan's mother. Why is she not styled "the duke's wife"? Because Huan had not yet become ruler. What is a funeral gift of carriage and horses? At a funeral there are such gifts. The funeral gift of carriage and horses, it seems, consists of horses — a team of four horses together with bundled silks. Carriages and horses are called feng; goods and wealth are called fu; garments and coverlets are called sui. If Huan had not yet become ruler, why then did the feudal lords come to bring funeral gifts for his mother? Yin held the throne for Huan's sake, and therefore announced the mourning for Huan's mother to the feudal lords. If so, then why does the text put it this way? To complete the duke's intention. Why does the text say "came"? Because it did not arrive in time for the burial. Why does the text say "Duke Hui, Zhongzi" together, as if for one event? Because the two are combined together — and to combine them together was contrary to ritual propriety. Why does the text not say "Duke Hui and Zhongzi," joined by "and"? Because Zhongzi was of humble standing, and could not be joined to him as an equal.

Annals. In the ninth month, [we] covenanted with the men of Song at Su (宿).

Gongyang. Who is meant by "we" here? Some lowly-ranked person of ours.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the Earl of Zhai (祭伯) came.

Gongyang. Who is the Earl of Zhai? He is a grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he not called an envoy? Because he had fled into exile. If he had fled, why does the text not say "fled"? Because in the eyes of the king there is no "outside" to the realm — to say "fled" would imply that there was an "outside" that he fled to.

Annals. The ducal son Yishi (公子益師) died.

Gongyang. Why is no day given? Because it was long ago. For what the chronicler himself witnessed, the wording differs; for what he heard directly reported, the wording differs; for what he heard at further remove, transmitted report, the wording differs.

Year 2 (隱公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, the duke met the Rong at Qian (潛).

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the men of Ju entered Xiang (向).

Gongyang. What does "entered" mean? It means they took the place but did not hold it.

Annals. Wuhai (無駭) led an army and entered Ji (極).

Gongyang. Who is Wuhai? He is Zhan Wuhai (展無駭). Why is he not given his clan name? To demean him. Why demean him? To condemn the beginning of a state's extinguishing another. Did such extinguishing begin here? No, it began before this. If it began before this, then why does [the text] treat this as the beginning? Because it entrusts here its point of origin. Why does it entrust its point of origin here? Because this is the beginning of the Chunqiu. Since this was an extinguishing, why does the text say "entered"? Because it was a great wickedness on the part of one of us, and so it is concealed.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day gengchen, the duke and the Rong covenanted at Tang (唐).

Annals. In the ninth month, Lüyu of Ji (紀履緰) came to meet the bride.

Gongyang. Who is Lüyu of Ji? He is a grandee of Ji (紀). Why is he not called an envoy? Because in the rites of marriage, one does not refer to the host. If so, then how is he referred to? He is referred to as an uncle, elder brother, teacher, or friend of the groom. The Duke of Song sent Gongsun Shou (公孫壽) to come and present the betrothal gifts — why then is he referred to as representing the host? Because there was no other way to phrase it. What does "no other way to phrase it" mean? That he had no mother. If so, did the groom of Ji have a mother? [Answer]: Yes, he had one. If he had a mother, why then is she not referred to as sending the envoy? Because a mother does not communicate directly in such matters. Ordinarily, when an outside state comes to meet a bride, it is not recorded — why is it recorded here? To censure. What is censured? The beginning of the practice of the groom not personally coming to meet the bride is censured. Did the practice of not personally meeting the bride begin here? No, it began before this. If it began before this, then why does the text treat this as the beginning? Because it entrusts its point of origin here. Why does it entrust its point of origin here? Because this is the beginning of the Chunqiu. Why is a woman sometimes called a "daughter," sometimes a "wife," and sometimes "the lady"? While she is still in her own state, she is called a "daughter"; while on the road, she is called a "wife"; once she has entered her husband's state, she is called "the lady."

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Boji (伯姬) went to her new home in Ji (紀).

Gongyang. Who is Boji? She is a woman of ours. Why does the text say "went to her new home"? Because for a woman, marrying is called "going home" — her true home is with her husband.

Annals. Zibo of Ji (紀子伯) and the Viscount of Ju covenanted at Mi (密).

Gongyang. Who is Zibo of Ji? Nothing further is known of him.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day yimao, the duke's wife, Lady Zi (夫人子氏), passed away.

Gongyang. Who is the duke's wife, Lady Zi? She is Duke Yin's mother. Why is her burial not recorded? To complete the duke's intention. In what way does it complete the duke's intention? Her son would not remain ruler to the end, and so his mother, too, is not treated as having remained "the duke's wife" to the end.

Annals. The men of Zheng attacked Wei.

Year 3 (隱公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day jisi, the sun was eclipsed.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. In the case of solar eclipses, why does the text sometimes give the day, sometimes not; sometimes say "the first day of the month," sometimes not? Where the text says, "In such-and-such month, on such-and-such day, the first of the month, the sun was eclipsed" — this means the eclipse fell exactly on the first day. As for its sometimes giving the day and sometimes not: sometimes the reckoning errs by falling before the true first day, sometimes it errs by falling after. Where it errs by falling before, the true first day was earlier than recorded; where it errs by falling after, the true first day was later.

Annals. In the third month, on the day gengxu, the Heavenly King died.

Gongyang. Why is his burial not recorded? For the Son of Heaven, the text records the death but not the burial, since the burial is assumed to occur at the proper time. For the feudal lords, the text records both the death and the burial, because, so long as the Son of Heaven exists above them, it cannot be assumed that their burial will necessarily occur at the proper time. Why does the text sometimes say "died" and sometimes "passed away"? For the Son of Heaven, death is called beng (崩); for a feudal lord, hong (薨); for a grandee, zu (卒); for an officer, bulu (不祿) — "his emolument fails."

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day xinmao, the Yin clan (尹氏) died.

Gongyang. Who is "the Yin clan"? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he referred to as "the Yin clan," by clan name alone? To demean him. Why demean him? To censure hereditary ministership — hereditary ministership is contrary to ritual propriety. Ordinarily the deaths of grandees from outside states are not recorded — why is his death recorded here? Because the Heavenly King had died, and he was the one presiding over the mourning rites for the feudal lords.

Annals. In autumn, the son of the Wu clan (武氏子) came to seek funeral contributions.

Gongyang. Who is the son of the Wu clan? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he referred to as "the son of the Wu clan"? To censure. What is censured? His father had died and the son had not yet received his charge to formal office. Why is he not called an envoy? Because the royal house was in mourning and there was as yet no new king. Why is it recorded that the son of the Wu clan came to seek funeral contributions? To censure. What is censured? In matters of mourning, one does not solicit — to solicit funeral contributions is contrary to ritual propriety, and it seems this applied all the way down to lesser ranks as well.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day gengchen, He, Duke of Song (宋公和), died.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the Marquis of Qi and the Earl of Zheng covenanted at Shimen (石門). On the day guiwei, Duke Mu of Song (宋繆公) was buried.

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes give the day for a burial and sometimes not? When the burial comes before the proper time and the day is given, it is a "rushed burial." When it comes before the proper time and the day is not given, it is a "negligent burial." When it comes after the proper time and the day is given, it is out of compassion for him. When it comes after the proper time and the day is not given, it is called "unable to carry out the burial." When it comes at the proper time and the day is not given, this is the correct, ordinary case. When it comes at the proper time and the day is given, it is because there was danger that the burial might not be carried out. Here, the burial came at the proper time — what was the danger?

Duke Xuan (宣公) said to Duke Mu: "As for my love for Yuyi (與夷), it is not equal to my love for you. But as for who should be master of the altars of soil and grain and of the ancestral temple, Yuyi is not equal to you. Why do you not simply remain ruler to the end?" When Duke Xuan died, Duke Mu was set up as ruler. Duke Mu banished his own two sons, Feng, later Duke Zhuang (莊公馮), and Zuoshi Bo (左師勃), saying: "Though you are my sons, in life do not see one another, and in death do not mourn for one another." Yuyi then said: "The reason the former ruler did not give the state to me, his subject, but handed the state to you, my lord, was that you, my lord, were capable of being master of the altars of soil and grain and the ancestral temple. Now, my lord, you have banished your own two sons and mean to hand the state over to me — this is not the intention of the former ruler. Moreover, if a son could rightly be banished, then the former ruler would have banished me, his subject." Duke Mu said: "That the former ruler did not banish you can be known clearly enough — I have held this place only as a regent." In the end he handed the state over to Yuyi. Later Duke Zhuang, that is Feng, assassinated Yuyi. Therefore the gentleman lays great weight upon holding to what is correct — the calamity of Song was brought about by Duke Xuan.

Year 4 (隱公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's second month, the men of Ju attacked Qi (杞) and took Moulou (牟婁).

Gongyang. What is Moulou? It is a settlement of Qi (杞). Ordinarily, the taking of a settlement by an outside state is not recorded — why is it recorded here? To condemn the beginning of the taking of settlements by force.

Annals. On the day wushen, Zhouxu of Wei (衛州吁) assassinated his ruler Wan (完).

Gongyang. Why is he identified by the name of the state, called "Zhouxu of Wei" rather than by a clan name? Because he controlled the state, as a usurping rival power.

Annals. In summer, the duke and the Duke of Song met informally at Qing (清).

Gongyang. What does "met informally" mean? That it was unplanned — one ruler had gone out, and the other ruler intercepted him along the way.

Annals. The Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the men of Cai, and the men of Wei attacked Zheng. In autumn, Hui (翬) led an army and joined the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the men of Cai, and the men of Wei in attacking Zheng.

Gongyang. Who is Hui? He is the ducal son Hui (公子翬). Why is he not called "the ducal son"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because he took part in the assassination of the duke. How did he take part in the assassination of the duke? The ducal son Hui flattered Duke Yin, saying to him: "The common people are at ease under you, and the feudal lords are pleased with you — why do you not simply remain ruler to the end?" Yin said: "No, I will not. I have had Tuqiu (涂裘) repaired; there I mean to grow old." The ducal son Hui, fearing that his words might reach Huan's ears, then went and said to Huan: "I sounded out Yin on your behalf. Yin said: 'I will not hand it back.'" Huan said: "If so, then what is to be done?" [Hui] said: "Let me raise trouble and assassinate Duke Yin." He assassinated Duke Yin at the sacrifice to Zhongwu (鐘巫).

Annals. In the ninth month, the men of Wei killed Zhouxu at Pu (濮).

Gongyang. Why are they referred to as "the men of Wei"? This is the wording used for collectively punishing a criminal.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the men of Wei set up Jin (晉).

Gongyang. Who is Jin? He is the ducal son Jin. What does "set up" mean here? It refers to setting up one who was not properly entitled to be set up. Why are they referred to as "the men of Wei"? This is the wording used when the multitude set him up. If so, then who really set him up? Shi Que (石碏) set him up. If Shi Que set him up, why then does the text say "the men of Wei"? Because it was what the multitude wished to have set up. Although the multitude wished to have him set up, the setting-up of him was not proper.

Year 5 (隱公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, the duke displayed fish at Tang (棠).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That it was far off. Why did the duke go so far off to display the fish? Because the fish had been drawn up and brought there. The duke had spread nets for fish worth a hundred pieces of gold — what does "drawn up and brought" mean here? It is an expression that exaggerates and magnifies, in mock praise. What is Tang? It is a settlement upon the Ji river.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, Duke Huan of Wei (衛桓公) was buried.

Annals. In autumn, the army of Wei entered Cheng (盛).

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes say "led an army" and sometimes not? When the commander is of high rank and the army is large, it is called "[named commander] led an army"; when the commander is of high rank but the army is small, it is called simply "the commander [went]." When the commander is of low rank and the army is large, it is called "the army [went]"; when the commander is of low rank and the army is small, it is called "the men [went]." When the ruler himself commands, the text does not say "led an army" — it records the matter of greatest weight, the ruler's own presence.

Annals. In the ninth month, the temple of Zhongzi was consecrated.

Gongyang. What does "consecrating the temple" mean? "Consecrating" is like "entering the chamber" — it marks the first sacrifice offered to Zhongzi in her newly completed temple. If Huan had not yet become ruler, why then sacrifice to Zhongzi? Because Yin held the throne for Huan's sake, and therefore performed the sacrifice to his mother on his behalf. If so, then why does the text put it this way? To complete the duke's intention.

Annals. For the first time, six ranks of dancers with feathers were presented.

Gongyang. What does "for the first time" mean? It means the beginning of this practice. What are "six ranks of feathers"? It refers to the dance performed with feather wands. Why is it recorded that for the first time six ranks of feathers were presented? To censure. What is censured? The beginning of the ritual usurpation of the standing of the various dukes is censured. In what way did the six ranks of feathers constitute a usurpation? The Son of Heaven uses eight ranks in his dance formation; the various dukes, six; the ordinary feudal lords, four. Who are "the various dukes"? Who are "the ordinary feudal lords"? The Son of Heaven's Three Dukes are styled "duke"; the descendants of former kings are styled "duke"; the rest, if a great state, are styled "marquis," if a small state, "earl," "viscount," or "baron." What are the Son of Heaven's Three Dukes? They are the Son of Heaven's chancellors. If they are the Son of Heaven's chancellors, why are there three? East of Shan, the Duke of Zhou presided; west of Shan, the Duke of Shao presided; and one chancellor remained within, at the royal court. Did the usurpation of the standing of the various dukes begin here? No, it began before this. If it began before this, then why is this treated as the beginning? Because usurping the standing of the various dukes could still be spoken of; usurping the standing of the Son of Heaven could not be spoken of at all.

Annals. The men of Zhulou and the men of Zheng attacked Song.

Annals. There were ming caterpillars (螟).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day xinsi, the ducal son Kou (公子彄) died. The men of Song attacked Zheng and besieged Changge (長葛).

Gongyang. Ordinarily, in the case of a mere settlement, the text does not say "besieged" — why does it say "besieged" here? Because of the strength of the resistance.

Year 6 (隱公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, the men of Zheng came to convey a settlement of peace.

Gongyang. What does "conveying a settlement" mean? "Conveying a settlement" is like "dismantling a completed agreement." Why speak of "dismantling a completed agreement"? Because it broke down what had been completed before — it is as if to say, "Our completed agreement has broken down," for we had, in the end, no completed agreement with the men of Zheng. Why then, in the end, was there no completed agreement between us and the men of Zheng? At the battle of Huran (狐壤), Duke Yin was captured. If so, then why does the text not say "fought"? To conceal his capture.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day xinyou, the duke met the Marquis of Qi, and they covenanted at Ai (艾).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Gongyang. Nothing happened here — why is this recorded? Even when nothing has happened, if the first month of a season has passed without record, the Chunqiu still records the season. Why does it record it when the first month of a season has passed? Because the Chunqiu is arranged by year, and only when all four seasons are present is it properly a year.

Annals. In winter, the men of Song took Changge.

Gongyang. Ordinarily, an outside state's taking of a settlement is not recorded — why is it recorded here? Because it had gone on for so long.

Year 7 (隱公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, in the king's third month, Shuji (叔姬) went to her new home in Ji (紀). The Marquis of Teng died.

Gongyang. Why is he not named? Because Teng was a minor state. If it was a minor state, why then is he styled "Marquis"? Because there was no cause for suspicion. In the Chunqiu, the noble and the base are not barred from sharing the same title, and the good and the bad are not barred from being described by the same wording.

Annals. In summer, [we] walled Zhongqiu (中丘).

Gongyang. What is Zhongqiu? It is a settlement of ours. Why is the walling of Zhongqiu recorded? It is recorded because of its weight.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi sent his younger brother Nian to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Why is he referred to as "younger brother"? A younger brother by the same mother is called "younger brother"; an elder brother by the same mother is called "elder brother."

Annals. In autumn, the duke attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In winter, the Heavenly King sent the Earl of Fan (凡伯) to come on a diplomatic visit; the Rong attacked the Earl of Fan at Chuqiu (楚丘) and carried him off.

Gongyang. Who is the Earl of Fan? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. This was a diplomatic visit — why then does the text say he was "attacked"? Because he was seized. If he was seized, why then does the text say "attacked"? To magnify it. Why magnify it? Because [Gongyang doctrine] does not sanction the Yi and Di, the barbarian peoples, seizing officials of the Middle States. Why is the place named? To magnify it.

Year 8 (隱公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, the Duke of Song and the Marquis of Wei met informally at Chui (垂). In the third month, the Earl of Zheng sent Wan (宛) to come and hand over Bing (邴).

Gongyang. Who is Wan? A lowly-ranked man of Zheng. What is Bing? It is a settlement of Zheng used for ritual bathing and hair-washing. When the Son of Heaven has business at Mount Tai, the feudal lords all attend him. At the foot of Mount Tai, the feudal lords each have a settlement for ritual bathing and hair-washing, to prepare themselves before the rites.

Annals. On the day gengyin, we entered Bing.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "entered"? Because it was difficult. Why is the day given? Because it was difficult. Why does the text say "we"? To say "we" implies it was not we alone who wanted it — Qi desired it too.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day jihai, Kaofu, Marquis of Cai (蔡侯考父), died. On the day xinhai, the Baron of Su (宿男) died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day gengwu, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Qi, and the Marquis of Wei covenanted at Wawu (瓦屋). In the eighth month, Duke Xuan of Cai (蔡宣公) was buried.

Gongyang. Why is the ruler named when his death is recorded but not named when his burial is recorded? Recording a death follows what is correct, his own proper name; recording a burial follows the usage of the host, the new ruler. Why is the day given when a death is recorded but not given when a burial is recorded? A death is reported, with precise notice; a burial is not separately reported to us.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day xinmao, the duke and the men of Ju covenanted at Baolai (包來).

Gongyang. Why did the duke covenant with such lowly-ranked persons? Because when the text calls them "men" of Ju, it may be followed without doubt.

Annals. There were ming caterpillars.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, Wuhai died.

Gongyang. This is Zhan Wuhai — why is he not given his clan name? To condemn the beginning of a state's extinguishing another, and so for his whole life he is not given his clan name.

Year 9 (隱公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, the Heavenly King sent Nan Ji (南季) to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In the third month, on the day guiyou, there was a great rain, with thunder and lightning.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. What was the portent? That it was out of season.

Annals. On the day gengchen, there was a great fall of snow.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. What was the portent? Its sudden severity.

Annals. Xia (俠) died.

Gongyang. Who is Xia? A grandee of ours who had not yet received his formal charge.

Annals. In summer, [we] walled Lang (郎).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, the duke met the Marquis of Qi at Bing.

Year 10 (隱公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's second month, the duke met the Marquis of Qi and the Earl of Zheng at Zhongqiu.

Annals. In summer, Hui led an army and joined the men of Qi and the men of Zheng in attacking Song.

Gongyang. This is the ducal son Hui — why is he not called "the ducal son"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because he was the one who wronged Yin, and so, throughout the entire chapter of Duke Yin's reign, he is demeaned.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day renxu, the duke defeated the army of Song at Jian (菅). On the day xinwei, [we] took Gao (郜); on the day xinsi, [we] took Fang (防).

Gongyang. Ordinarily, the taking of a settlement does not have the day recorded — why is the day given here? Because two settlements were taken within a single month. Why remark on two settlements being taken within a single month? To emphasize the severity of it. For a great wickedness on the part of one of us, the text conceals it — why then does it here speak of emphasizing the severity? The Chunqiu records fully the affairs of our own state and treats outside states more summarily: for an outside state's great wickedness, it is recorded; for a lesser wickedness, it is not recorded. For our own great wickedness, it is concealed; for a lesser wickedness, it is recorded.

Annals. In autumn, the men of Song and the men of Wei entered Zheng. The men of Song, the men of Cai, and the men of Wei attacked Zai (載), and the Earl of Zheng attacked and took it.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "attacked and took it"? Because it was easy. How was it easy? Because he relied on the strength of others. Whose strength did he rely on? He relied on the strength of the men of Song, the men of Cai, and the men of Wei.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day renwu, the men of Qi and the men of Zheng entered Cheng (盛).

Year 11 (隱公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, the Marquis of Teng and the Marquis of Xue came to court.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "came to court"? When a feudal lord comes, it is called "coming to court"; when a grandee comes, it is called "coming on a diplomatic visit." Why does the text mention them together, in one entry? Because they were minor states.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the duke met the Earl of Zheng at Qili (祁黎).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day renwu, the duke together with the Marquis of Qi and the Earl of Zheng entered Xu (許).

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day renchen, the duke passed away.

Gongyang. Why is his burial not recorded? Out of compassion, to conceal it. What is concealed? That he was assassinated. If he was assassinated, why then is his burial not recorded? In the Chunqiu, when a ruler has been assassinated and the criminal has not been punished, the burial is not recorded, on the ground that in that case he is treated as having had no ministers or sons worthy of the name. Master Shen (子沈子) said: "When a ruler is assassinated, if his ministers do not punish the criminal, they are not ministers. If his son does not avenge him, he is not a son. Burial is a matter for the living. In the Chunqiu, when a ruler has been assassinated and the criminal has not been punished, the burial is not recorded, on the ground that it can no longer be reckoned as belonging to proper ministers and sons." Why is no place given for the duke's death? Because it could not be borne to speak of it. Why does Yin's final year have no "first month"? Because Yin was about to yield the throne to Huan, and so the text does not grant him his own first month.

Duke Huan (桓公)

Year 1 (桓公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke acceded to the throne.

Gongyang. When succeeding an assassinated ruler, the text does not ordinarily say the new ruler "acceded to the throne" — why then does it say so here? Because it accorded with his own wish.

Annals. In the third month, the duke met the Earl of Zheng at Chui. The Earl of Zheng, with a jade disc, took the fields of Xu in exchange.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "took it in exchange with a jade disc"? Because he traded for it. If he traded for it, why then does the text say "took in exchange"? For the sake of courtesy. Why for the sake of courtesy? Because, so long as the Son of Heaven exists above them, the feudal lords may not deal with land as their own to dispose of at will. What are "the fields of Xu"? A settlement of Lu's used for lodging when going to court at the royal capital. When the feudal lords go to court before the Son of Heaven at the proper seasons, in the outskirts of the Son of Heaven's capital each feudal lord has a settlement for lodging on the way to court. If this was a settlement of Lu's for lodging on the way to court, why then is it called "the fields of Xu"? To conceal the fact that it was land taken from Zhou, the royal domain. If it conceals the taking of land from Zhou, why then is it called "the fields of Xu"? Because it is linked in name to the state of Xu. Why is it linked to Xu? Because it lay near Xu. This was a settlement — why then is it called "fields"? Where there are more fields and fewer dwellings, it is called "fields"; where there are more dwellings and fewer fields, it is called a "settlement."

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day dingwei, the duke and the Earl of Zheng covenanted at Yue (越).

Annals. In autumn, there was a great flood.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month.

Year 2 (桓公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day wushen, Du of Song (宋督) assassinated his ruler Yuyi (與夷), together with his grandee Kongfu (孔父).

Gongyang. What does "together with" mean here? It denotes implication. Rulers have been assassinated many times — apart from this case, were there none implicated along with them? [Answer]: There were. Chou Mu (仇牧) and Xun Xi (荀息) were both so implicated. Apart from Chou Mu and Xun Xi, were there none implicated? [Answer]: There were. If so, why is Kongfu's case recorded with this special notice? Because he was worthy. In what way was Kongfu worthy? Kongfu may be said to have had righteousness show forth in his very countenance. How did his righteousness show forth in his countenance? Du was about to assassinate Duke Shang (殤公); but so long as Kongfu lived, Duke Shang could not be assassinated. Therefore Du first attacked Kongfu's household. Duke Shang, knowing that once Kongfu died he himself would certainly die too, hastened to rescue him, and both died there. Kongfu stood at court with an upright countenance, such that no one dared go beyond him to bring harm upon his ruler — Kongfu may indeed be said to have had righteousness show forth in his countenance.

Annals. The Viscount of Teng came to court. In the third month, the duke met the Marquis of Qi, the Marquis of Chen, and the Earl of Zheng at Ji (稷), to settle the disorder in Song.

Gongyang. For a great wickedness on the part of one of us, the text conceals it — why then does it here name it outright? Because it was long ago. For what the chronicler himself witnessed, the wording differs; for what he heard directly, the wording differs; for what he heard at further remove, the wording differs. Yin's reign too was long ago — why then does the text conceal things for Yin's sake, but not here for Huan? Because Yin was worthy, while Huan was base.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, [we] took the great tripod of Gao (郜) from Song.

Gongyang. This was taken from Song — why then is it called the "tripod of Gao"? Vessels follow their place-name; land follows its possessor. Why do vessels follow their name? Why does land follow its possessor? Because with a vessel, unlike land, there is no immediate identification with the person holding it. Song had originally taken it by unrighteous means, and so it is called the "tripod of Gao." As for land and its possessor, it is not so — before long, land taken may be considered as belonging to its new possessor. If so, then does taking something make it rightfully one's own? [Answer]: No. Why not? It is like the King of Chu taking his own sister to wife — there is no time at which that could ever be proper.

Annals. On the day wushen, it was brought into the Grand Temple.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That, following upon the disorder in Song, Lu accepted a bribe and placed it in the Grand Temple — this was contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Marquis of Ji (紀) came to court. The Marquis of Cai and the Earl of Zheng met at Deng (鄧).

Gongyang. When only two parties meet without others, it is not ordinarily called a "meeting" — why then does the text say "met" here? It seems that Deng also took part in the meeting.

Annals. In the ninth month, [we] entered Qi (杞). The duke and the Rong covenanted at Tang.

Annals. In winter, the duke arrived back from Tang.

Year 3 (桓公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the first month, the duke met the Marquis of Qi at Ying (嬴).

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wei made mutual pledge at Pu (蒲).

Gongyang. What does "made mutual pledge" mean? It means they pledged to one another. Why speak of "pledging to one another"? Because it comes close to what is correct. In what way does this come close to what is proper? In antiquity there was no covenant-oath with blood-smearing; men simply bound themselves by their word and withdrew.

Annals. In the sixth month, the duke met the Marquis of Ji (紀) at Cheng (盛).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day renchen, the first day of the month, the sun was eclipsed, totally.

Gongyang. What does "totally" mean? It means completely — the eclipse was total.

Annals. The ducal son Hui went to Qi to meet the bride. In the ninth month, the Marquis of Qi escorted Lady Jiang (姜氏) to Huan (讙).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That a feudal lord crossed his own borders to escort a daughter in marriage — this was contrary to ritual propriety. She had already entered Lu's domain — why then is she not styled "the lady"? Speaking from our own side toward Qi: for parents in regard to their child, even though she has become the lady of a neighboring state, they still say "our Lady Jiang."

Annals. The duke met the Marquis of Qi at Huan; the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, arrived from Qi.

Gongyang. Why is Hui's arrival not recorded separately? Because he had already had audience with the duke.

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Qi sent his younger brother Nian to come on a diplomatic visit. There was a good harvest year.

Gongyang. Why is "there was a harvest year" recorded? It is recorded out of joy. [Elsewhere the text says] "there was a great harvest year" — why is that recorded? It, too, is recorded out of joy. Why does the text here say merely "there was a harvest year"? Because it was only just barely a harvest year. Why does it elsewhere say "there was a great harvest year"? Because that was a great, abundant harvest. Is a year that is only just a harvest year enough to warrant joy? Yes, because the people depend upon there being a harvest at all.

Year 4 (桓公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the first month, the duke hunted at Lang.

Gongyang. What is "hunted"? It refers to a field hunt: in spring it is called miao; in autumn, sou; in winter, shou. Ordinary affairs are not recorded — why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That it was far off. Why must the feudal lords hold field hunts? First, to provide dried meat for the sacrificial stands; second, for guests; third, to fill the ruler's kitchen.

Annals. In summer, the Heavenly King sent Steward Qu Bojiu (宰渠伯糾) to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Who is Steward Qu Bojiu? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he called "Steward Qu Bojiu," with both office and name in full? Because he was a grandee of the lower rank.

Year 5 (桓公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the first month, on the days jiaxu and jichou, Bao, Marquis of Chen (陳侯鮑), died.

Gongyang. Why is his death recorded with two days? Because of confusion. On the day jiaxu he went missing, and on the day jichou he was found dead — the chronicler was uncertain which was the true day of death, and therefore recorded his death with both days.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi and the Earl of Zheng went to Ji (紀).

Gongyang. Ordinarily, when outside states visit one another, it is not recorded — why is it recorded here? Because when only two parties act apart from a larger gathering, it is not called a "meeting."

Annals. The Heavenly King sent the son of Reng Shu (仍叔之子) to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Who is the son of Reng Shu? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he referred to as "the son of Reng Shu"? To censure. What is censured? That the father had grown old and the son took his place in handling affairs of state.

Annals. Duke Huan of Chen (陳桓公) was buried.

Annals. [We] walled Zhuqiu (祝丘).

Annals. In autumn, the men of Cai, the men of Wei, and the men of Chen followed the king in attacking Zheng.

Gongyang. Why does the text say they "followed the king" in attacking Zheng? Because to follow the king is correct.

Annals. There was a great rain-sacrifice.

Gongyang. What is the great rain-sacrifice? It is a sacrifice performed in response to drought. If so, then why does the text not say "drought"? If it says "rain-sacrifice," the drought is made evident; if it said "drought," the rain-sacrifice would not be made evident. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. There were locusts.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. In winter, the Duke of Zhou (州公) went to Cao.

Gongyang. Ordinarily, when outside states visit one another, it is not recorded — why is it recorded here? Because he passed through our territory.

Year 6 (桓公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the first month, [he] indeed came.

Gongyang. What does "indeed came" mean? It is like saying "this very man came." Who is meant? The Duke of Zhou is meant. Why is he referred to as "indeed came"? To slight him. Why slight him? Because he had assimilated himself to us, abandoning his own state to join ours.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the duke met the Marquis of Ji (紀) at Cheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day renwu, there was a great review.

Gongyang. What is "the great review"? It means inspecting the chariots and foot soldiers. Why is this recorded? Because, it seems, it was rare.

Annals. The men of Cai killed Chen Tuo (陳佗).

Gongyang. Who is Chen Tuo? He was the ruler of Chen. If he was the ruler of Chen, why then is he called merely "Chen Tuo," by his bare name? To cut him off from his standing. Why is he cut off? Because he was base. In what way was he base? He committed licentious acts abroad. Where did he commit licentious acts? He committed licentious acts in Cai, and the men of Cai killed him for it.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day dingmao, [the duke's] son Tong (子同) was born.

Gongyang. Who is meant by "the son Tong was born"? Duke Zhuang is meant. Why speak of "the son Tong was born"? To rejoice that there was now a properly legitimate heir. There had been no previous instance of rejoicing that there was a proper heir — why then does the text here speak of rejoicing that there was a proper heir? Because for so long there had been no proper heir. Master Gongyang (公羊子) said: "Might this not be to reproach Huan?"

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Ji (紀) came to court.

Year 7 (桓公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, in the second month, on the day jihai, [they] burned Xianqiu (咸丘).

Gongyang. What does "burned" mean? It means to clear it by burning, in a hunt. What does "to fire it" mean? To attack with fire. Why speak of "attacking with fire"? To condemn the beginning of the practice of attacking with fire. What is Xianqiu? It is a settlement of Zhulou. Why is it not linked in the text to Zhulou? Because it is treated as a place with its own state-like standing. Why is it treated as having its own state-like standing? Because a ruler resided there.

Annals. In summer, the Earl of Gu, Sui (穀伯綏), came to court. The Marquis of Deng, Wuli (鄧侯吾離), came to court.

Gongyang. Why are they both named? Because they were rulers who had lost their territories. Why are they styled "marquis"/"earl" when coming to court? Because for one of noble rank without posterity, he is treated as at the beginning, as if nothing had changed.

Year 8 (桓公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the first month, on the day jimao, the winter sacrifice was performed.

Gongyang. What is the "zheng"? It is the winter sacrifice. In spring it is called "ci"; in summer, "yue"; in autumn, "chang"; in winter, "zheng." Ordinary affairs are not recorded — why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? Its being too frequent. When too frequent, it becomes overfamiliar; when overfamiliar, it becomes irreverent. In the gentleman's sacrifices, there is reverence without overfamiliarity. When too infrequent, one grows negligent; when negligent, one forgets. An officer who does not attain to these four seasonal sacrifices properly then, in winter, does not wear fur, and in summer does not wear hemp-cloth.

Annals. The Heavenly King sent Jiafu (家父) to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day dingchou, the winter sacrifice was performed.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure its frequency.

Annals. In autumn, [we] attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, there was a fall of snow.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. What was the portent? That it was out of season.

Annals. The Duke of Zhai (祭公) came, and thereupon went on to Ji (紀) to meet the royal bride.

Gongyang. Who is the Duke of Zhai? One of the Son of Heaven's Three Dukes. Why is he not called an envoy? Because in the rites of marriage, one does not refer to the host. What does "thereupon" mean? It marks an event arising unplanned, out of the original matter. A grandee ordinarily has no authority to act on his own initiative in this way — why then does the text say "thereupon" here? Because it was completed as a commission through us. How was it completed as a commission through us? Since it was permissible to have us serve as matchmaker, he accordingly, by this same authority, went on to meet the bride. Ordinarily, while a woman is in her own state she is called a "daughter" — why then is she here called "the royal bride"? Because in the eyes of the king there is no "outside" to the realm, and so the wording is already complete.

Year 9 (桓公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, Jijiang of Ji (紀季姜) went to her new home at the capital.

Gongyang. The wording was already complete — why then does the text here call her "Jijiang of Ji"? Speaking from our own side toward Ji: for her parents in regard to their child, even though she has become the Heavenly King's consort, they still say "our Jiang, the youngest." What is "the capital"? It is where the Son of Heaven dwells. What does "jing" mean? It means "great." What does "shi" mean? It means "multitude." Where the Son of Heaven dwells must be spoken of in terms denoting greatness and multitude.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, the Earl of Cao sent his heir apparent Shegu (射姑) to come to court.

Gongyang. When a feudal lord comes, it is called "coming to court." This was the heir apparent — why then does the text say "came to court"? The Chunqiu has elsewhere censured cases where the father had grown old and the son took his place in handling affairs of state — but it is not certain whether that censure applies to the case involving Qi, or to this case involving Cao.

Year 10 (桓公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day gengshen, Zhongsheng, Earl of Cao (曹伯終生), died.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, Duke Huan of Cao (曹桓公) was buried.

Annals. In autumn, the duke met the Marquis of Wei at Taoqiu (桃丘), but did not encounter him.

Gongyang. What does "met" mean here? It is the wording used for an appointed meeting. Why does the text say "did not encounter him"? Because the duke was not met — the Marquis did not show up as arranged.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day bingwu, the Marquis of Qi, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Zheng came and fought at Lang.

Gongyang. What is Lang? It is a settlement of ours nearby the capital. If it was a settlement of ours nearby, why then does the text say they "came and fought at Lang"? Because it was so near. Near to what? Near to being besieged. This was a formally arrayed battle — why then does the text not say "our army suffered a rout"? For a battle involving us, the text does not ordinarily say "we fought" — but if it does say "we fought," then we were indeed defeated.

Year 11 (桓公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the first month, the men of Qi, the men of Wei, and the men of Zheng covenanted at Ecao (惡曹).

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day guiwei, Wusheng, Earl of Zheng (鄭伯寤生), died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Duke Zhuang of Zheng (鄭莊公) was buried. In the ninth month, the men of Song seized Zhai Zhong of Zheng (祭仲).

Gongyang. Who is Zhai Zhong? He is the chancellor of Zheng. Why is he not named? Because he was worthy. In what way was Zhai Zhong worthy? Because he was deemed to understand the proper use of expedient measures. How did he show his understanding of expedient measures?

In antiquity, the state of Zheng was situated at Liu (留). An earlier Earl of Zheng was on good terms with the Duke of Kuai (鄶公); he had illicit relations with the duke's wife, and by this means seized his state and moved Zheng there, turning Liu into open countryside. When Duke Zhuang died and had already been buried, Zhai Zhong was about to go to Liu to inspect it; his road passed through Song. The men of Song seized him and said to him: "On our behalf, expel Hu (忽) and set up Tu (突)." If Zhai Zhong did not comply with their demand, the ruler would certainly die and the state would certainly be lost; if he complied with their demand, the ruler could exchange death for life, and the state could exchange ruin for survival. If he could delay things a little, then Tu could later be expelled in turn and Hu could then return as before — but if this could not be achieved, it would be a bitter matter; only then would there still be a state of Zheng at all. Among the ancients who exercised expedient judgment, Zhai Zhong's expedient judgment is an example of this.

What is "expedient judgment"? Expedient judgment goes against the constant norm, and only afterward does good come of it. Expedient judgment is only to be applied where nothing but death or ruin is otherwise at stake — it is not to be applied elsewhere. There is a proper way to exercise expedient judgment: one diminishes and sacrifices oneself in exercising it; one does not harm others in exercising it. To kill another in order to save oneself, to ruin another in order to preserve oneself — the gentleman does not do this.

Annals. Tu returned to Zheng.

Gongyang. Why is Tu named? Because he is linked to, and thus judged alongside, Zhai Zhong. Why does the text say "returned"? Because it followed, and thus deferred to the propriety of, Zhai Zhong's handling of the matter.

Annals. Hu of Zheng fled into exile to Wei.

Gongyang. Why is Hu named? In the Chunqiu, the ranks of earl, viscount, and baron are treated as one — the wording carries no demeaning intent.

Annals. Rou (柔) met the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, and Shu of Cai (蔡叔), and they covenanted at Zhe (折).

Gongyang. Who is Rou? A grandee of ours who had not yet received his formal charge.

Annals. The duke met the Duke of Song at Futong (夫童).

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the duke met the Duke of Song at Kan (闞).

Year 12 (桓公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, in the first month.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day renyin, the duke met the Marquis of Ji (紀) and the Viscount of Ju, and they covenanted at Oushe (毆蛇).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day dinghai, the duke met the Duke of Song and the men of Yan, and they covenanted at Guqiu (穀丘).

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day renchen, Yue, Marquis of Chen (陳侯躍), died. The duke met the Duke of Song at Tan (郯).

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, the duke met the Duke of Song at Gui (龜). On the day bingxu, the duke met the Earl of Zheng, and they covenanted at Wufu (武父).

Annals. On the day bingxu, Jin, Marquis of Wei (衛侯晉), died.

Annals. In the twelfth month, [we] together with the army of Zheng attacked Song. On the day dingwei, [we] fought at Song.

Gongyang. When the text says "we fought," it does not ordinarily also say "we attacked" — why does it say "attacked" here? To avoid a misunderstanding. A misunderstanding about what? A misunderstanding that we were fighting against the men of Zheng, rather than fighting alongside them against Song. This was a formally arrayed battle — why then does the text not say "our army suffered a rout"? For a battle involving us, the text does not ordinarily say "we fought" — but if it does say "we fought," then we were indeed defeated!

Year 13 (桓公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, in the second month, the duke met the Marquis of Ji (紀) and the Earl of Zheng. On the day jisi, [they] fought against the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, and the men of Yan; the armies of Qi, Song, Wei, and Yan suffered a rout.

Gongyang. Why does the day of the battle come after, recorded separately from the meeting? Because our forces relied upon outside help. How did they rely on outside help? Only by gaining the Marquis of Ji (紀) and the Earl of Zheng as allies were they able to carry the day. For a battle involving us, the text does not ordinarily say "we fought" — why then does it say "they fought" here? Because it follows the outside states. Why does it follow the outside states? Because our forces relied on outside help, and so the wording follows the outside states. Why is no place given? Because it was near. Near to what? Near to being besieged. Lang, too, was near the capital — why then was a place given for the battle at Lang? Because for Lang it was still possible to name the place.

Annals. In the third month, Duke Xuan of Wei (衛宣公) was buried.

Annals. In summer, there was a great flood.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month.

Year 14 (桓公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, in the first month, the duke met the Earl of Zheng at Cao (曹).

Annals. There was no ice.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In summer, the fifth [month, unstated]. The Earl of Zheng sent his younger brother Yu (語) to come and covenant.

Gongyang. What does "summer, five" mean, without a stated unit? Nothing further is known of it.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day renshen, the royal granary caught fire.

Gongyang. What is the royal granary? It is where the grain-offerings for sacrifice are stored. Why is the fire at the royal granary recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. On the day yihai, the autumn sacrifice was performed.

Gongyang. Ordinary affairs are not recorded — why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? The performing of the autumn sacrifice, under these circumstances. As if to say: "Still performing the sacrifice!" The royal granary had caught fire — it would have been better simply not to perform the sacrifice at all!

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day dingsi, Lufu, Marquis of Qi (齊侯祿父), died.

Annals. The men of Song, with the men of Qi, the men of Wei, the men of Cai, and the men of Chen, attacked Zheng.

Gongyang. What does "with" mean? It means Song carried out its own will through them.

Year 15 (桓公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, in the second month, the Heavenly King sent Jiafu to come and seek chariots.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? The king ought to make no requests; to seek chariots was contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. In the third month, on the day yiwei, the Heavenly King died.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day jisi, Duke Xi of Qi (齊僖公) was buried.

Annals. In the fifth month, Tu, Earl of Zheng (鄭伯突), fled into exile to Cai.

Gongyang. Why is Tu named? Because he had seized the throne from the rightful heir.

Annals. The heir apparent of Zheng, Hu, returned once more to Zheng.

Gongyang. Why is he styled "heir apparent"? Because he was restored to what was proper. Why does the text sometimes say "returned" and sometimes "returned once more"? "Returned once more" is used when the going-out was blameworthy but the returning is not blameworthy; "entered once more" is used when the going-out was not blameworthy but the entering is blameworthy. "Entered," alone, is used when both the going-out and the entering are blameworthy. "Returned," alone, is used when neither the going-out nor the entering is blameworthy.

Annals. Shu of Xu (許叔) entered into Xu. The duke met the Marquis of Qi at Hao (鄗). The men of Zhulou, the men of Mou, and the men of Ge came to court.

Gongyang. Why are they all referred to as "the men of" their states? Because they are treated as Yi and Di, the barbarian peoples.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, Tu, Earl of Zheng (鄭伯突), entered into Li (櫟).

Gongyang. What is Li? It is a settlement of Zheng. Why does the text not say he entered into Zheng [the capital]? Because the matter is left unstated. Why is it left unstated? Because Zhai Zhong (祭仲) was gone. If so, why does the text not speak of Hu's (忽) flight into exile? Because to call him "Hu," by name, as ruler was already to mark his weakness. While Zhai Zhong lived, [Hu] held his place; when Zhai Zhong was gone, [Hu] lost it!

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, and the Marquis of Chen at Chi (侈), and they attacked Zheng.

Year 16 (桓公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the first month, the duke met with the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Cai, and the Marquis of Wei at Cao (曹).

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the duke met with the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Marquis of Chen, and the Marquis of Cai, and they attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the duke arrived back from the attack on Zheng.

Annals. In winter, they walled Xiang (向). In the eleventh month, Shuo, Marquis of Wei (衛侯朔), fled into exile to Qi.

Gongyang. Why is Shuo, Marquis of Wei, named [by his personal name]? To cut him off [from his standing]. Why is he cut off? Because he had incurred an offense against the Son of Heaven. How had he incurred an offense against the Son of Heaven? He had been charged to guard and protect Wei, yet could not command even the small people of Wei; he crossed over and ended up north of Mount Dai, in Qi, lodging there without submitting to his punishment.

Year 17 (桓公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, in the first month, on the day bingchen, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Ji, and they covenanted at Huang (黃).

Annals. In the second month, on the day bingwu, the duke and Yifu of Zhulou (邾婁儀父) covenanted at Cui (趡).

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day bingwu, [our forces] fought with the army of Qi at Xi (奚).

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day dingchou, Fengren, Marquis of Cai (蔡侯封人), died.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, Ji of Cai (蔡季) returned to Cai from Chen. On the day guisi, [they] buried Marquis Huan of Cai (蔡桓侯). [Our forces], together with men of Song and men of Wei, attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the first day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.

Year 18 (桓公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi at Luo (濼). The duke and his wife, Lady Jiang (夫人姜氏), then went on to Qi.

Gongyang. Why does the text not say "and his wife" [in the same breath as the duke]? Because the wife stood apart. What does it mean that the wife stood apart? These are words spoken from within [Lu]: in truth, it was the wife who held the duke at a distance.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingzi, the duke passed away in Qi. On the day dingyou, the duke's coffin arrived back from Qi.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day jichou, our lord Duke Huan was buried.

Gongyang. The murderer had not yet been punished — why then does the text record the burial? Because the enemy was abroad. If the enemy was abroad, why does that warrant recording the burial? These are words of the gentleman.

Duke Zhuang (莊公)

Year 1 (莊公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Gongyang. Why does [the text] not say the duke "acceded to the throne"? In the Chunqiu, when a ruler has been assassinated, the son [who succeeds him] is not said to "accede to the throne." If the ruler was assassinated, why is the son not said to accede to the throne? Out of compassion, to conceal it. Conceal it for whom? To conceal it for the son.

Annals. In the third month, the duke's wife departed to Qi.

Gongyang. What does "departed" (孫) mean? "Departed" is like "withdrew." Within [Lu], flight is tactfully avoided and called "departing." The lady was in fact already in Qi — why then does the text say she "departed to Qi"? Out of longing for the mother. The "first month" serves to establish the ruler; "longing for the mother" opens the account of affairs. Why is the lady not called "Lady Jiang"? To demean her. Why demean her? Because she took part in the assassination of the duke. How did she take part in the assassination of the duke? The lady slandered the duke to the Marquis of Qi, saying that the duke had said: "Tong [同, the heir] is not my son — he is the son of the Marquis of Qi." The Marquis of Qi grew furious. He drank wine with him. When he set out to leave, [the marquis] had Gongzi Pengsheng (公子彭生) escort him. As he mounted the carriage, [Pengsheng] crushed his ribs and killed him. To long for one's mother is a good thing — why then, in the very matter of her longing for her mother, does the text demean her? Because it does not condone [mere] longing for the mother [when she bore this guilt].

Annals. In summer, Shan Bo (單伯) went to meet the Royal Maiden (王姬).

Gongyang. Who is Shan Bo? He is a grandee of ours who received his charge from the Son of Heaven. Why is he not called an envoy? Because the Son of Heaven summoned and dispatched him directly. What does "went to meet her" mean? It means [the Son of Heaven] made us host the match. Why did he make us host it? When the Son of Heaven marries off a daughter to a feudal lord, he must have a feudal lord of the same surname host her; when a feudal lord marries off a daughter to a grandee, he must have a grandee of the same surname host her.

Annals. They built a lodge for the Royal Maiden outside [the city].

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? To build it was proper; to build it outside was improper. Why was building it outside improper? To build it outside was improper. Why was building it proper at all? Whoever hosts a royal maiden must build anew for her. Why must whoever hosts a royal maiden build anew for her? The main hall would not do; a lesser chamber would raise suspicion; the lodges of the various sons would be too lowly — the proper course requires that new quarters be built for her.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day yihai, Lin, Marquis of Chen, died.

Annals. The king sent Rong Shu (榮叔) to bestow regalia upon Duke Huan.

Gongyang. What does "bestow" (錫) mean? It means "to grant." What does "mandate" (命) mean? It means to add to our ceremonial garb. Why does the text say "Duke Huan"? Because this was a mandate granted after the fact.

Annals. The Royal Maiden went to her new home in Qi.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? Because we hosted the match.

Annals. The army of Qi moved [the people of] Ji's [towns of] Ping (郱), Zi (鄑), and Wu (郚).

Gongyang. What does "moved" mean? It means "seized." If it means seized, why does the text not say "seized"? To conceal it for Duke Xiang [of Qi]. Ordinarily the seizure of an outside settlement is not recorded — why then is this recorded? To magnify it. Why magnify it? Because from this the destruction [of Ji, 紀] began.

Year 2 (莊公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's second month, [Lu] buried Duke Zhuang of Chen.

Annals. In summer, Gongzi Qingfu (公子慶父) led an army and attacked Yuyuqiu (於余丘).

Gongyang. What is Yuyuqiu? It is a settlement of Zhulou. Why is it not linked to Zhulou [in the text]? Because it is treated as its own state. Why is it treated as its own state? Because its ruler was resident there.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Royal Maiden of Qi died.

Gongyang. [Deaths of] outside wives are not [ordinarily] recorded — why is her death recorded here? To note it especially. Why note it especially? Because we had hosted her match.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, met with the Marquis of Qi at Gao (郜). On the day yiyou, Feng, Duke of Song, died.

Year 3 (莊公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, Ni (溺) met with the army of Qi and attacked Wei.

Gongyang. Who is Ni? He is a grandee of ours who had not yet received formal charge.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, [Lu] buried Duke Zhuang of Song.

Annals. [Lu] buried King Huan [of Zhou] (桓王).

Gongyang. There had been no earlier record of his passing — why then does the text record his burial? Because this was, it seems, a re-burial.

Annals. In autumn, Ji of Ji (紀季) entered into Qi with Xi (酅).

Gongyang. Who is Ji of Ji? He is the younger brother of the Marquis of Ji. Why is he not named? Because he is deemed worthy. In what way is Ji of Ji deemed worthy? Because he submitted to the charge. How did he submit to the charge? Master Lu (魯子) said: "He asked that the five ancestral temples be maintained afterward, so as to preserve the paternal aunts and elder sisters [of the house]."

Annals. In winter, the duke camped at Lang (郎).

Gongyang. Why does the text say "the duke camped at Lang"? To censure him for wishing to rescue Ji but in the end proving unable to.

Year 4 (莊公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's second month, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, feasted the Marquis of Qi at Zhuqiu (祝丘). In the third month, Boji of Ji (紀伯姬) died.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi, the Marquis of Chen, and the Earl of Zheng met at Chui (垂).

Annals. The Marquis of Ji made his great departure from his state.

Gongyang. What does "great departure" mean? It means [the state] was destroyed. Who destroyed it? Qi destroyed it. Why does the text not say "Qi destroyed it"? To conceal it for Duke Xiang [of Qi]. The Chunqiu conceals things for the worthy. In what way is Duke Xiang worthy? Because he avenged an ancestor. What was the grudge? A distant ancestor. Duke Ai [of Qi] was boiled alive at the Zhou court; the Marquis of Ji had slandered him [to the king]. In what Duke Xiang did here, his devotion to serving his forefathers reached its fullest measure. What does "fullest measure" mean? When Duke Xiang was about to avenge himself upon Ji, he divined about it, and the response said: "The army will lose half its number; even should our lord himself die in it, this is not to be accounted inauspicious." The distant ancestor — how many generations back? Nine generations. After nine generations can the grudge still be avenged? Even after a hundred generations it may be. Does this apply to a [private] family as well? It is said: it does not. Why does it apply to a state? Because the rulers of a state form a single body: the shame of a former ruler is the shame of the present ruler, and the shame of the present ruler is the shame of the former ruler. Why do the rulers of a state form a single body? Because a ruler takes the state itself as his body, and the feudal houses continue in succession — therefore the rulers of a state form a single body. But Ji today has committed no offense — is this then not [merely private] rage? It is said: no. In antiquity, had there been an enlightened Son of Heaven, the Marquis of Ji would certainly have been punished, and there would be no house of Ji at all. That the Marquis of Ji was not punished, and that Ji still exists down to today, is because there has been no enlightened Son of Heaven. In antiquity feudal lords necessarily had occasions of assembly, and ways of exchanging court visits with one another; in their formal address they had to invoke their former rulers in dealing with each other. If so, then Qi and Ji have no way to explain themselves to one another, and cannot both stand together under Heaven. Therefore, one who would remove the Marquis of Ji could not help but remove Ji itself. Had there been an enlightened Son of Heaven, could Duke Xiang have carried out such an act? It is said: he could not. If he could not, then why did Duke Xiang do it? Because above there was no Son of Heaven, and below there was no regional hegemon; one may act on the strength of a grievance born of kinship.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day yichou, the Marquis of Qi buried Boji of Ji.

Gongyang. [Burials of] outside wives are not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? To conceal it, out of compassion. Conceal what? Her state had perished, and she was merely being buried in Qi. This was [an act done in the course of] a war of revenge — why then does the text record her burial? [Because one should] destroy what may be destroyed, and bury what may be buried. Why was she a case that might be buried? Because revenge is not directed at killing [such women] — it is directed at driving [the offending line] out. It shows that even had he come upon the coffin of the Marquis of Ji himself, [Duke Xiang] would still have seen to its burial.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, the duke and men of Qi hunted at Gao.

Gongyang. Why does the duke go hunting with a lesser figure? [Because in fact it was] the Marquis of Qi. If it was the Marquis of Qi, why is he styled merely "men [of Qi]"? To conceal the fact that [the duke] went hunting with an enemy. Before this there were [other] occasions, and after this there were [other] occasions — why then is this one singled out for censure? Regarding an enemy, [the text] will censure but once; therefore it selects the gravest instance and censures that one — none is graver than going hunting together with an enemy. Why does it censure an enemy but once? Because with an enemy there should be no occasion at all on which contact is permitted; if every contact were censured, the censure would be excessive and inexhaustible. Therefore it censures but once, and the rest follow the same principle.

Year 5 (莊公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, went to the army of Qi.

Annals. In autumn, Lilai of Ni (倪黎來) came to court.

Gongyang. What is Ni? It is Lesser Zhulou. If it is Lesser Zhulou, why is it called "Ni"? Because it was not yet able to have its ruler's name properly conveyed. Who is Lilai? It is a name. Why give the name? Because it is a minor state.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with men of Qi, men of Song, men of Chen, and men of Cai, and they attacked Wei.

Gongyang. Why this attack on Wei? To restore Shuo. Why does the text not say "restored Shuo, Marquis of Wei"? To avoid [implicating] the king.

Year 6 (莊公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the king's third month, Zitu, a king's man (王人子突), rescued Wei.

Gongyang. What is a "king's man"? A person of low rank. Who is Zitu? A person of noble rank. If he is noble, why is he styled merely "man"? Because he is linked to the [general class of] "men." Why is he linked to "the men"? Because he was only one of the king's men.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Shuo, Marquis of Wei, entered into Wei.

Gongyang. Why is Shuo, Marquis of Wei, named? To cut him off. Why is he cut off? Because he defied the king's command. Why does the text say "entered"? These are the words for a usurper.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived back from the attack on Wei.

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes say "arrived, having held a meeting," and sometimes "arrived, having conducted an attack"? When the aim was achieved, it records the meeting; when the aim was not achieved, it records the attack. [Since] Shuo, Marquis of Wei, [nonetheless] entered into Wei, why does the text record it as an attack? Because [Lu and its allies] did not dare to override the Son of Heaven.

Annals. There was a plague of grain-moths.

Annals. In winter, men of Qi came to return the treasures of Wei.

Gongyang. If these were the treasures of Wei, why did men of Qi come to return them? Because men of Wei had [first] given them [to Qi]. Since men of Wei had given them, why is it styled "men of Qi"? To yield the credit to us. How did [Qi] yield the credit to us? The Marquis of Qi said: "This was not achieved by my own strength — it was the strength of the Marquis of Lu."

Year 7 (莊公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, met with the Marquis of Qi at Fang (防).

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the night of the day xinmao, the fixed stars were not seen, and at midnight stars fell like rain.

Gongyang. What are the "fixed stars"? The constellations. If the constellations were not seen, how could it be known [that stars fell]? Because the stars in the middle of the night were reversed. What does "like rain" mean? "Like rain" does not mean it actually rained. If it was not rain, why call it "like rain"? The unedited Chunqiu said: "Stars rained down, but before reaching the ground, returned upward." The gentleman, in editing it, wrote: "Stars fell like rain." Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In autumn, there was a great flood. There was no wheat, no shoots.

Gongyang. If there were no shoots, why does the text first say "no wheat" and only afterward say "no shoots"? A single [instance of] calamity is not recorded; only once there was no wheat, and then afterward no shoots, was it recorded. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. In winter, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, met with the Marquis of Qi at Gu (穀).

Year 8 (莊公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the army camped at Lang, to await the men of Chen and the men of Cai.

Gongyang. Ordinarily, when [the text] says "camped," it does not say "await" — why then does it say "await" here? To claim it as something done out of necessity, not by choice.

Annals. On the day jiawu, they held the sacrifice of the troops.

Gongyang. What is the "sacrifice of the troops"? Going out, it is called "sacrifice of the troops"; coming in, it is called "the muster on return." The rite is one and the same — both are exercises in war. Why does the text speak of the "sacrifice of the troops"? Because it took so long. Why did it take so long? Because we were about to act on the day jiawu, and only then held the sacrifice of the troops on that occasion.

Annals. In summer, our army together with the army of Qi besieged Cheng (成); Cheng surrendered to the army of Qi.

Gongyang. What is Cheng? It is Sheng (盛). If it is Sheng, why is it called Cheng [in the text]? To conceal the destruction of a state of the same surname. Why does the text not say it surrendered to our army? To avoid [implicating Lu].

Annals. In autumn, the army returned.

Gongyang. What does "returned" mean? These are words of approval. Since this was the destruction of a state of the same surname, what is there to approve? It expresses distress over it, as if to say: "The army suffered!" Why express distress over it? Because it was not the army's fault.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day guiwei, Wuzhi of Qi (齊無知) assassinated his ruler, Zhu'er (諸兒).

Year 9 (莊公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, men of Qi killed Wuzhi. The duke and the grandees of Qi covenanted at Ji (暨).

Gongyang. Why did the duke covenant with mere grandees? Because Qi had no ruler [at that moment]. If so, why are they not named? To conceal the fact that he covenanted with grandees, making it seem as though it were done with the multitude.

Annals. In summer, the duke attacked Qi in order to install Jiu (糾).

Gongyang. What does "install" mean? These are the words [used when someone is] brought in from outside. Why does the text say "attacked" [together with "install"]? When an attack is spoken of together with "install," it means that in fact he could not be installed. Who is Jiu? He is Gongzi Jiu. Why is he not styled "Gongzi"? Because in the presence of the ruler, a subject is named.

Annals. Xiaobai of Qi (齊小白) entered into Qi.

Gongyang. Why is he identified by the name of the state? Because he was taking control of the state. Why does the text say "entered"? These are the words for a usurper.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day dingyou, [they] buried Duke Xiang of Qi.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day gengshen, [we] fought with the army of Qi at Ganshi (乾時); our army suffered a great defeat.

Gongyang. Ordinarily a defeat of our own is not spoken of as "defeat" — why is it spoken of as "defeat" here? Because [our forces] had attacked and been defeated. Why had they attacked? To avenge [Jiu]. This was avenging a wrong against a great state — why then were lesser men sent [to do it]? It was the duke. If it was the duke, why does the text not say "the duke"? Because it does not condone the duke['s conduct of] avenging the wrong. Why does it not condone the duke avenging the wrong? Because avenging a wrong should be carried out by an inferior.

Annals. In the ninth month, men of Qi took Zijiu [Prince Jiu] and killed him.

Gongyang. Why does the text say they "took" him? These are words spoken from within [Lu]: [Qi] coerced us and made us kill him ourselves. Why is he styled "Zijiu"? To ennoble him. In what way was he noble? Because he was one who by right ought to have been ruler.

Annals. In winter, [we] dredged the Zhu [River] (洙).

Gongyang. What is the Zhu? It is a river. What does "dredged" mean? To deepen it. Why deepen it? Out of fear of Qi. Why fear Qi? Because of what had been said about the killing of Zijiu.

Year 10 (莊公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke defeated the army of Qi at Changshao (長勺).

Annals. In the second month, the duke invaded Song.

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes say "invaded" and sometimes "attacked"? The cruder action is called "invade"; the more measured one is called "attack." When there is battle, "attack" is not said; when there is a siege, "battle" is not said; when there is entry, "siege" is not said; when there is destruction, "entry" is not said — the text records only the graver of the terms that apply.

Annals. In the third month, men of Song moved [the people of] Su (宿).

Gongyang. Why did they move them? [Su] did not maintain relations [with Song] — hence [Song] moved them by relocating their land. Master Zishen (子沈子) said: "'Did not maintain relations' means, it seems, that [Song] accordingly made them into its subjects."

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the armies of Qi and Song camped at Lang; the duke defeated the army of Song at Chengqiu (乘丘).

Gongyang. Why does the text say they "camped at Lang"? Because it amounted to an attack. If it was an attack, why call it "camped"? Qi took part in the attack but not in the battle, and so it is called an attack; we were able to defeat them, and so it is called a camp.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, Jing (荊) defeated the army of Cai at Shen (莘), and carried off Xianwu, Marquis of Cai (蔡侯獻舞), with them on their return.

Gongyang. What is "Jing"? It is the name of a region. A region ranks below a state; a state ranks below a clan name; a clan name ranks below "men"; "men" ranks below a personal name; a personal name ranks below a style-name; a style-name ranks below "Zi" [viscount]. Why is Xianwu, Marquis of Cai, named? To cut him off. Why is he cut off? Because he was captured. Why does the text not say he was "captured"? Because it does not credit a "Yi" or "Di" people with capturing a ruler of the Central Lands.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the army of Qi destroyed Tan (譚); the Viscount of Tan fled to Ju (莒).

Gongyang. Why does the text not say he "fled out"? Because his state had already been destroyed — there was no [longer any state to] "go out from."

Year 11 (莊公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day wuyin, the duke defeated the army of Song at Zi (鄑).

Annals. In autumn, Song suffered a great flood. Why is this recorded?

Gongyang. To record a calamity. Calamities abroad are not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? Because it affected us as well.

Annals. In winter, the Royal Maiden went to her new home in Qi.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? Because she passed through our territory.

Year 12 (莊公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, in the king's third month, Shuji of Ji (紀叔姬) went to her new home at Xi (酅).

Gongyang. Why does the text say she "went to her new home at Xi"? To conceal it, out of compassion. Conceal what? Her state had perished, and she was merely going to join her younger brother.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day jiawu, Song Wan (宋萬) assassinated his ruler, Jie (接), together with his grandee Qiu Mu (仇牧).

Gongyang. What does "together with" mean? It denotes an added, implicated party. Rulers have been assassinated many times — were there ever occasions with no implicated party? Kong Fu and Xun Xi were both implicated parties. Apart from Kong Fu and Xun Xi, was there ever a case with no implicated party? It is said: yes, there was. If so, why is this one recorded [with the added party named]? Because he is deemed worthy. In what way is Qiu Mu worthy? Qiu Mu may be said to have feared no show of force. How did he fear no show of force? [Song] Wan had once fought with Duke Zhuang and been captured by him; when Duke Zhuang returned, he housed him loosely within the palace, and only after several months sent him back. On his return he again became a grandee in Song. He was gaming with Duke Min [of Song], with women in attendance at his side. Wan said: "How fine is the Marquis of Lu! How handsome the Marquis of Lu! Among all the feudal lords under Heaven, the one fit to be ruler is the Marquis of Lu alone!" Duke Min, prizing these women, grew jealous of his words, and turned and said: "You are a captive! Being a captive, how could the Marquis of Lu's excellence amount to anything?" Wan grew enraged, struck Duke Min, and broke his neck. When Qiu Mu heard that his ruler had been assassinated, he hurried to the scene; he met him at the gate, drew his sword, and shouted at him. Wan turned aside and killed Qiu Mu, smashing his skull, so that his teeth were left embedded in the gate-leaf. Qiu Mu may indeed be said to have feared no show of force!

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Song Wan fled into exile to Chen.

Year 13 (莊公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi, men of Song, men of Chen, men of Cai, and men of Zhulou met at Beixing (北杏).

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, men of Qi destroyed Sui (遂).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, and they covenanted at Ke (柯).

Gongyang. Why is no day given for this covenant? Because it was treated lightly. Why treated lightly? Duke Huan's [of Qi] covenants are not dated, and his meetings are not recorded as "arrivals" — both reflecting trust in him. Why does this practice of omitting the day begin here? When Duke Zhuang was about to meet with [Duke] Huan, Cao Zi (曹子) came forward and said: "What is my lord's intent?" Duke Zhuang said: "As for my life — it would be better that I were dead!" Cao Zi said: "In that case, let my lord take the role of his lord, and let your servant take the role of his servant." Duke Zhuang said: "Very well." So they met at Ke. Duke Zhuang ascended the altar; Cao Zi, sword in hand, followed him up. Guan Zi (管子) came forward and said: "What does my lord seek?" Cao Zi said: "Our city walls have crumbled and press upon your border — has my lord considered this?" Guan Zi said: "In that case, what does my lord seek?" Cao Zi said: "I ask for the fields of Wenyang (汶陽)." Guan Zi turned and said: "My lord, grant it." Duke Huan said: "Very well." Cao Zi asked to make covenant; Duke Huan descended and covenanted with him. Once the covenant was made, Cao Zi flung aside his sword and withdrew. A covenant extracted under duress might rightly be violated, yet Duke Huan did not go back on it; Cao Zi might rightly have been treated as an enemy, yet Duke Huan bore him no resentment. Duke Huan's good faith became renowned throughout the world beginning from the covenant of Ke.

Year 14 (莊公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, men of Qi, men of Chen, and men of Cao attacked Song.

Annals. In summer, Shan Bo joined the attack on Song.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "joined the attack on Song"? Because he joined the meeting only afterward.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Jing entered into Cai.

Annals. In winter, Shan Bo met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Zheng at Juan (鄄).

Year 15 (莊公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Zheng met at Juan.

Annals. In summer, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, went to Qi.

Annals. In autumn, men of Song, men of Qi, and men of Zhulou attacked Ni (兒). Men of Zheng invaded Song.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month.

Year 16 (莊公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, men of Song, men of Qi, and men of Wei attacked Zheng.

Annals. Jing attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, the Earl of Cao, the Earl of Hua, and the Viscount of Teng, and together they covenanted at You (幽).

Gongyang. What does "covenanted together" mean? It means they shared the same desire.

Annals. Ke, Viscount of Zhulou (邾婁子克), died.

Year 17 (莊公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, men of Qi seized Zheng Zhan (鄭瞻).

Gongyang. Who is Zheng Zhan? A person of low standing in Zheng. If he is a person of low standing, why does the text speak of men of Qi seizing him? To record how extreme a flatterer he was.

Annals. In summer, men of Qi were wiped out at Sui (遂).

Gongyang. What does "wiped out" mean? "Wiped out" means "gathered up" — the multitude killed the garrison troops.

Annals. In autumn, Zheng Zhan fled back from Qi.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record how extreme a flatterer he was. It is as if to say: "A flatterer has come! A flatterer has come!"

Annals. In winter, there were many elk.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Year 18 (莊公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's third month, there was an eclipse of the sun.

Annals. In summer, the duke pursued the Rong (戎) west of the Ji [River] (濟西).

Gongyang. There had been no mention here of an attack — why then does the text speak of "pursuing"? To magnify that [Lu] was pursuing on behalf of the Central Lands. There had been no attack on the Central Lands recorded here — why then does the text speak of the pursuit as being on behalf of the Central Lands? To magnify that [Lu] warded them off in advance, before they had even arrived. Why does the text say "west of the Ji"? To magnify it further.

Annals. In autumn, there was a plague of yu (蜮).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month.

Year 19 (莊公十九年)

Annals. In the nineteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, Gongzi Jie (公子結) escorted the bride's attendant party of the woman of Chen [given in marriage] at Juan, and thereupon joined in covenant with the Marquis of Qi and the Duke of Song.

Gongyang. What is a "bride's attendant"? When a feudal lord takes a wife from one state, two [other] states send attendants to accompany her, sending along a niece and a younger sister [of the bride] to go with her. What is a "niece" here? The daughter of an elder brother. What is a "younger sister"? A younger sister [of the bride]. A feudal lord takes nine women in a single act of marriage, and does not marry again. Sending attendants is not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? Because he had "gone on to complete [another] affair," and it is for that it is recorded. A grandee is not ordinarily credited with independently "completing an affair" — why then does the text say he did so here? Under the rites governing a diplomatic mission: a grandee receives his charge but not fixed instructions; once beyond the border, if there is something that may secure the altars of the state and benefit the state and its house, he may act on his own authority.

Annals. The duke's wife, Lady Jiang, went to Ju (莒).

Annals. In winter, men of Qi, men of Song, and men of Chen attacked our western border.

Year 20 (莊公二十年)

Annals. In the twentieth year, in spring, in the king's second month, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, went to Ju.

Annals. In summer, Qi suffered a great calamity.

Gongyang. What is a "great calamity"? A great pestilence. What is a "great pestilence"? An epidemic illness. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity. Calamities abroad are not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? Because it affected us as well.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, men of Qi attacked the Rong.

Year 21 (莊公二十一年)

Annals. In the twenty-first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day xinyou, Tu, Earl of Zheng, died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day wuxu, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, passed away.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, [they] buried Duke Li of Zheng (鄭厲公).

Year 22 (莊公二十二年)

Annals. In the twenty-second year, in spring, in the king's first month, [the court] loosened the great restraint.

Gongyang. What does "loosened" mean? To relax. What does "great restraint" mean? Restraint on account of calamity. Why is the loosening of the great restraint recorded? To censure. What is censured? To censure the beginning of dread over such restraint.

Annals. On the day guichou, [they] buried our lady, Wen Jiang (文姜).

Gongyang. Who is Wen Jiang? The mother of Duke Zhuang.

Annals. Men of Chen killed their Gongzi Yukou (禦寇).

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day bingshen, [we] covenanted with Gao Xi of Qi (齊高傒) at Fang.

Gongyang. Who is Gao Xi of Qi? A noble grandee. Why did he come to covenant with a lesser figure of ours? It was the duke. If it was the duke, why does the text not say "the duke"? To conceal the fact that he covenanted with a mere grandee.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Qi to present the betrothal gifts. Ordinarily the presenting of betrothal gifts is not recorded — why is this recorded?

Gongyang. To censure. What is censured? That the duke presented the betrothal gifts in person was improper.

Year 23 (莊公二十三年)

Annals. In the twenty-third year, in spring, the duke arrived back from Qi.

Gongyang. Duke Huan's covenants are not dated, and his meetings are not recorded as "arrivals" — reflecting trust in him; why then, for this arrival from Qi, does the text record an "arrival"? To mark it as dangerous. What was dangerous about it? The duke [risked becoming] a second Chen Tuo (陳佗).

Annals. Uncle Cai (蔡叔) came on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, the duke went to Qi to observe the community sacrifice.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? For a feudal lord to cross the border to observe the community sacrifice was improper.

Annals. The duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. Men of Jing came on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Why is Jing styled "men"? Because it was only now able to conduct a diplomatic visit.

Annals. The duke and the Marquis of Qi encountered each other at Gu (穀). Uncle Xiao (蕭叔) paid court to the duke.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "paid court to the duke" [rather than the usual phrasing]? Because the duke was away from home.

Annals. In autumn, they painted red the pillars of Duke Huan's shrine.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That the pillars of Duke Huan's shrine were painted red was improper.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, Yigu, Earl of Cao (曹伯射姑), died.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jiayin, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi and covenanted at Hu (扈).

Gongyang. Duke Huan's covenants are not dated — why then is this one dated? To mark it as dangerous. What was dangerous about it? That we were of two minds. Master Lu said: "That we were of two minds was not because of how the other side behaved — it was because of how we ourselves behaved."

Year 24 (莊公二十四年)

Annals. In the twenty-fourth year, in spring, in the king's third month, they carved the rafters of Duke Huan's shrine.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That the rafters of Duke Huan's shrine were carved was improper.

Annals. [They] buried Duke Zhuang of Cao.

Annals. In summer, the duke went to Qi to meet the bride in person.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? Because meeting the bride in person is proper ritual.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived back from Qi. In the eighth month, on the day dingchou, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, entered [the capital].

Gongyang. Why does the text say she "entered"? Because it was fraught with difficulty. Why does the text give the day? Because it was fraught with difficulty. In what way was it difficult? The lady would not enter without proper deportment; only after she had made an agreement with the duke did she enter.

Annals. On the day wuyin, the grandees and the wives of the lineage presented themselves [to the new duchess], using ceremonial gifts of silk.

Gongyang. What are "wives of the lineage"? The wives of the grandees. What does "presented themselves" mean? To be received in audience. What does "using" mean? "Using" [here] means something that ought not to be used — to be received in audience using silk gifts was improper. What, then, ought to have been used? Dates and chestnuts, it is said! Cured and seasoned meats, it is said!

Annals. There was a great flood.

Annals. In winter, the Rong invaded Cao; Cao Ji (曹羈) fled into exile to Chen.

Gongyang. Who is Cao Ji? A grandee of Cao. Cao has no [recognized] grandees [in the record] — why is this one recorded? Because he is deemed worthy. In what way is Cao Ji worthy? When the Rong were about to invade Cao, Cao Ji remonstrated, saying: "The Rong are numerous and without regard for righteousness; my lord, I ask that you not personally oppose them." The Earl of Cao said: "It cannot be otherwise." Three times he remonstrated, and was not heeded; so he departed. Therefore the gentleman held that he had grasped the proper relation between ruler and subject.

Annals. Chi (赤) went to his new home at [the court of] Guo Gong of Cao (曹郭公).

Gongyang. Who is Chi? Cao has no one called Chi — this must, it seems, be Guo Gong. Who is Guo Gong? A ruler who had lost his land.

Year 25 (莊公二十五年)

Annals. In the twenty-fifth year, in spring, the Marquis of Chen sent Nüshu (女叔) on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day guichou, Shuo, Marquis of Wei, died.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the first day of the month, xinwei, there was an eclipse of the sun; [we] beat drums and used a sacrificial victim at the altar of the soil.

Gongyang. If there was an eclipse, why beat drums and use a victim at the altar of the soil? To seek [to restore] the way of yin. They encircled the altar with vermilion cord — some say to menace it, some say to darken it — fearing that [evil influence] might trespass upon it, and so they encircled it.

Annals. Boji (伯姬) went to her new home at Qi (杞).

Annals. In autumn, there was a great flood; [we] beat drums and used a sacrificial victim at the altar of the soil and at the gate.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "at the altar of the soil" and "at the gate"? [Doing so] at the altar of the soil was proper ritual; at the gate was improper.

Annals. In winter, Gongzi You (公子友) went to Chen.

Year 26 (莊公二十六年)

Annals. In the twenty-sixth year, in spring, the duke attacked the Rong.

Annals. In summer, the duke arrived back from the attack on the Rong.

Annals. Cao killed its grandee.

Gongyang. Why is he not named? Because it was the multitude [that did the killing]. Why did the multitude kill him? Because he was one who had not died at his post alongside the ruler of Cao [as he should have]. When a ruler dies at his post, it is called "extinguished" — why then does the text not say [Cao] was "extinguished"? To conceal it for the sake of Cao Ji. This was, it seems, in fact a battle — why does the text not say "battle"? To conceal it for the sake of Cao Ji.

Annals. In autumn, the duke met with men of Song and men of Qi and attacked Xu (徐).

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the first day of the month, guihai, there was an eclipse of the sun.

Year 27 (莊公二十七年)

Annals. In the twenty-seventh year, in spring, the duke met Boji of Qi (齊伯姬) at Tao (洮).

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, and the Earl of Zheng, and together they covenanted at You.

Annals. In autumn, Gongzi You went to Chen, to attend the burial of Yuanzhong (原仲).

Gongyang. Who is Yuanzhong? A grandee of Chen. The burial of a grandee [of another state] is not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? To allow for Ji Zi's (季子, Gongzi You's) private journey. Why allow for Ji Zi's private journey? To avoid an internal crisis. The gentleman avoids internal crises but does not avoid external ones. What was the internal crisis? Gongzi Qingfu, Gongzi Ya (公子牙), and Gongzi You were all Duke Zhuang's brothers by the same mother. Gongzi Qingfu and Gongzi Ya had illicit relations with the duke's wife so as to threaten the duke; Ji Zi rose up to deal with it, yet he could not [move directly] against the affairs of state — yet to sit and watch would betray kinship affection. Because he could not bear to witness it, he asked once more at this point to go to Chen, to attend the burial of Yuanzhong.

Annals. In winter, Boji of Qi (杞伯姬) came [to Lu].

Gongyang. Why does the text say "came"? A direct visit is called "came"; a permanent return is called "came home."

Annals. Ju Qing (莒慶) came to meet [and escort] Shuji (叔姬) [as bride].

Gongyang. Who is Ju Qing? A grandee of Ju. Ju has no [recognized] grandees — why is this one recorded? To censure. What is censured? That a grandee crossed the border to meet a bride in person was improper.

Annals. The Earl of Qi (杞伯) came to court.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Qi at Chengpu (城濮).

Year 28 (莊公二十八年)

Annals. In the twenty-eighth year, in spring, in the king's third month, on the day jiayin, men of Qi attacked Wei; men of Wei and men of Qi fought, and men of Wei suffered a great defeat.

Gongyang. Ordinarily an attack is not dated — why is this one dated? Because it was the day [the attackers] arrived. Ordinarily when there is battle, "attack" is not said — why does the text here say "attack"? Because it was the day they arrived. In the Chunqiu, the attacker is treated as the guest, and the one attacked as the host — hence the text makes Wei the host. Why does it make Wei the host? Because Wei had, in fact, committed no offense. The defeated party is ordinarily styled "the army" — why is Wei not styled "the army"? Because it had not yet achieved proper battle-array as an army.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day dingwei, Suo, Viscount of Zhulou (邾婁子瑣), died.

Annals. In autumn, Jing attacked Zheng; the duke met with men of Qi, men of Song, and men of Zhulou to rescue Zheng.

Annals. In winter, they built [walls at] Wei (微). There was a great [shortage]: no wheat, no grain.

Gongyang. Having already seen that there was no wheat and no grain, why does the text first speak of building at Wei, and only afterward speak of there being no wheat and no grain? To conceal the fact that a settlement was built in a year of famine.

Annals. Zangsun Chen (臧孫辰) reported [to Lu] a request to buy grain from Qi.

Gongyang. What does "reported a request to buy grain" mean? To ask to buy grain. Why does the text not say he was sent [as an official envoy]? Because it is treated as Zangsun Chen's own private undertaking. Why is it treated as his own private undertaking? The gentleman, in governing a state, must have a three years' reserve laid by; when a single year's harvest fails and [the state] must ask to buy grain, this is a matter for censure.

Year 29 (莊公二十九年)

Annals. In the twenty-ninth year, in spring, they renewed the extended stables.

Gongyang. What does "renewed the extended stables" mean? To repair what was old. Repairing what is old is not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That in a year of famine such repairs were undertaken.

Annals. In summer, men of Zheng invaded Xu.

Annals. In autumn, there was a plague of fei.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, Shuji of Ji died.

Annals. They walled Zhu (諸) and Fang (防).

Year 30 (莊公三十年)

Annals. In the thirtieth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the army camped at Cheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, men of Qi brought down Zhang (鄣).

Gongyang. What is Zhang? A remaining settlement left over from Ji. What does "brought down" mean? To seize it. If it means to seize it, why does the text not say "seized"? To conceal it for the sake of Duke Huan [of Qi]. Ordinarily the seizure of an outside settlement is not recorded — why is this recorded? Because it completed [the destruction of Ji].

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day guihai, [they] buried Shuji of Ji.

Gongyang. [Burials of] outside wives are not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? To conceal it, out of compassion. Conceal what? Her state had perished, and she was merely being buried alongside her younger brother.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the first day of the month, gengwu, there was an eclipse of the sun; [we] beat drums and used a sacrificial victim at the altar of the soil.

Annals. In winter, the duke and the Marquis of Qi encountered each other at Lu Ji (魯濟).

Annals. Men of Qi attacked the Mountain Rong (山戎).

Gongyang. This was [in fact] the Marquis of Qi — why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Master Sima Zi (子司馬子) said: "It seems that, in his conduct of the campaign, he had already grown too pressed." This was, it seems, in fact a battle — why does the text not say "battle"? In the Chunqiu, when the two sides are evenly matched, "battle" is said; as for Duke Huan's dealings with the Rong and Di, he merely drove them off.

Year 31 (莊公三十一年)

Annals. In the thirty-first year, in spring, they built a terrace at Lang.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That it overlooked the place where the people washed and rinsed [their clothes].

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the Earl of Xue (薛伯) died.

Annals. They built a terrace at Xue (薛).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That it was far away.

Annals. In the sixth month, the Marquis of Qi came in person to present the spoils of the Rong campaign.

Gongyang. Qi is a great state — why did [its ruler] come in person to present the spoils of the campaign? To overawe us. How did it overawe us? [Qi] paraded the captured banners as it passed through our territory.

Annals. In autumn, they built a terrace at Qin (秦).

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To censure. What is censured? That it overlooked a [neighboring] state.

Annals. In winter, there was no rain.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Year 32 (莊公三十二年)

Annals. In the thirty-second year, in spring, they walled Xiaogu (小穀).

Annals. In summer, the Duke of Song and the Marquis of Qi encountered each other at Liangqiu (梁丘).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day guisi, Gongzi Ya died.

Gongyang. Why is he not styled "younger brother"? Because he was put to death. If he was put to death, why does the text not say "executed"? To conceal, for Ji Zi's sake, the fact of the killing. Why conceal, for Ji Zi's sake, the fact of the killing? Because of the way Ji Zi checked this evil — he did not turn it into a matter for the state's tribunal, and out of regard for Ji Zi's own heart in the matter, [the text] conceals it for him. How did Ji Zi check this evil? When Duke Zhuang was on the verge of death, he summoned Ji Zi because of his illness. Ji Zi arrived, and [the duke] entrusted him with the governance of the state, saying: "If I should not rise from this illness, to whom shall I hand over the state of Lu?" Ji Zi said: "Ban (般) still lives — what does my lord have to worry about?" The duke said: "How could it be so simple? Ya said to me: 'In Lu, one generation gives the throne to a son, the next to a younger brother — my lord already knows this.' Qingfu, too, still lives." Ji Zi said: "How would he dare! This would be to make rebellion! How would he dare!" Shortly after, Ya's plot to assassinate [the heir] was ready. Ji Zi mixed a drug and gave it to him to drink, saying: "If you, my lord's brother, follow my words and drink this, you will surely avoid being made a laughingstock before the world, and will surely have descendants in Lu. If you do not follow my words and do not drink this, you will surely be made a laughingstock before the world, and will surely have no descendants in Lu." Thereupon he followed these words and drank it; he drank it at the house of the Lei family, and died on reaching Wangdi (王堤). As for Gongzi Ya, matters now stood thus — why then are the words [used of him] the same as for one who personally commits assassination? A ruler's close kin harbor no [designs of usurpation] — one who harbors such a design is put to death for it. If so, does [the text] approve of this? It is said: yes. When [the text] plainly names the ruler [as the killer] in the killing of an heir or a full brother, this is to intensify [the condemnation] — that Ji Zi killed his own full brother [by the same mother], why is this approved? Because in putting him to death, [Ji Zi] could not avoid [the fact that the victim was his] elder brother, and this is the proper relation between ruler and subject. If so, why does the text not plainly execute him, and instead poison him? To carry it out toward a brother, concealed, so as to spare him — making it appear as though he had died of illness — this is the way proper to kinship affection.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day guihai, the duke passed away in the Chief Chamber (路寢).

Gongyang. What is the "Chief Chamber"? The principal sleeping-hall [of the ruler].

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day yiwei, Zi Ban (子般) died.

Gongyang. When a [reigning] son dies, it is said "the son died" — why then is this styled "Zi Ban died"? While the ruler lives, [the heir] is styled "heir apparent"; when the ruler passes away, he is styled "Zi so-and-so"; once he has been buried, he is styled "Zi" [alone]; once a year has passed, he is styled "duke." Zi Ban died — why does the text not record his burial? Because he was a ruler who had not yet completed a year [on the throne]. If he has a son, then there is a temple [for him], and if there is a temple, his burial is recorded; if he has no son, there is no temple, and if there is no temple, his burial is not recorded.

Annals. Gongzi Qingfu went to Qi. The Di attacked Xing (邢).

Duke Min (閔公)

Year 1 (閔公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Gongyang. Why does [the Annals] not speak of the duke's accession? One who succeeds an assassinated ruler is not spoken of as acceding. Whom did he succeed? He succeeded Zi Ban (子般). Who assassinated Zi Ban? Qing Fu (慶父) did. He had already killed Gongzi Ya; now he was about to do this again, and Jizi (季子, also called Ji You 季友) could not prevent it. Qing Fu assassinated the ruler — why was he not executed? He was on the verge of it and could not be stopped — this was a case of curbing evil. Since afterward it could not be reached, and there was someone the case could be pinned upon, they punished him without probing the true facts — this is the way of showing kinship affection. Upon whom was the case pinned? It was pinned on the servant Deng Huyue (鄧扈樂). Why was the case pinned on the servant Deng Huyue? While Duke Zhuang was still alive, Deng Huyue had once committed licentious acts within the palace, and Zi Ban had seized him and had him flogged. When Duke Zhuang died, Qing Fu said to Huyue: "That Ban humiliated you — there is no one in the state who does not know it. Why not assassinate him?" He had Huyue assassinate Zi Ban, and afterward had Deng Huyue executed and pinned the case on him. When Jizi arrived, he did not alter this.

Annals. The people of Qi rescued Xing. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day xinyou, we buried our ruler, Duke Zhuang.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the duke and the Marquis of Qi covenanted at Luogu. Jizi came home.

Gongyang. Why is he styled "Jizi"? Because he was worthy. Why does it say "came home"? Because [the text] rejoices at it.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun of Qi came.

Gongyang. Who is "Zhongsun of Qi"? He is Gongzi Qing Fu. If he is Gongzi Qing Fu, why is he called "Zhongsun of Qi"? Because he is attached, [in the record,] to Qi. Why is he attached to Qi? Because [the text] treats him as an outsider. Why does it treat him as an outsider? The Spring and Autumn conceals for the honored, conceals for kin, conceals for the worthy. Zi Nüzi (子女子) said: "Reading 'chunqiu' as [the title] Spring and Autumn — Qi has no [officer called] Zhongsun; perhaps this means 'our own Zhongsun'?"

Year 2 (閔公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's first month, the people of Qi relocated [the people of] Yang.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day yiyou, the auspicious di-sacrifice was performed for Duke Zhuang.

Gongyang. Why does it say "auspicious"? To call it "auspicious" here means that it was not yet permissible to be auspicious. Why was it not yet permissible? Because the three-year [mourning period] was not yet complete. But it had been three years — why does it say the three years were not complete? The three-year mourning period actually runs twenty-five months. Why does it say "for Duke Zhuang" [naming him rather than his temple]? Because it was not yet permissible to speak of his ancestral hall. Why was it not yet permissible to speak of the hall? Because he was still within the three-year period. Why does it record "the auspicious di-sacrifice was performed for Duke Zhuang"? To criticize. What does it criticize? It criticizes the fact that the three years were not observed from the start.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day xinchou, the duke passed away.

Gongyang. Why does it not give the place of the duke's passing? Because [the text] is discreet about it. What does it conceal? That he was assassinated. Who assassinated him? Qing Fu. He had killed Gongzi Ya; now he was about to do it again, and Jizi could not prevent it. Qing Fu assassinated two rulers — why was he not executed? He was on the verge of it and could not be stopped — this is a case of curbing evil; since afterward he could not be reached, the pursuit of the fleeing culprit was relaxed — this is the way of showing kinship affection.

Annals. In the ninth month, the lady, née Jiang, fled to Zhulou.

Annals. Gongzi Qing Fu fled into exile to Ju.

Annals. In winter, Gaozi (高子) of Qi came to covenant.

Gongyang. Who is Gaozi? A grandee of Qi. Why is he not styled as having been "sent"? Because we [Lu] had no ruler. If so, why is he not [further] named? Because [the text] takes joy in him. What is there to rejoice at? That he set us right. How did he set us right? Duke Zhuang died; Zi Ban was assassinated; Duke Min was assassinated — in succession three rulers died, and for that span of years there was no ruler. Had Qi wished to take Lu, it would not even have needed to raise an army — mere words would have sufficed. Duke Huan sent Gaozi to lead the armored troops of Nanyang; he established Duke Xi and walled Lu — some say the wall ran from Lu Gate to Zheng Gate; others say from Zheng Gate to Li Gate. The people of Lu, to this day, speak of it as a fine tale, saying: "We still look to Gaozi."

Annals. In the twelfth month, the Di entered Wei. Zheng abandoned its army.

Gongyang. What does "Zheng abandoned its army" mean? It expresses disapproval of its commander. The Earl of Zheng detested Gao Ke; he sent him to lead the army out and then would not receive him back — this was the way of "abandoning the army."

Duke Xi (僖公)

Year 1 (僖公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Gongyang. Why does [the text] not speak of the duke's accession? A son who succeeds an assassinated ruler is not spoken of as acceding. But this [Duke Xi] was not [Duke Min's] son — why is he treated by that rule? A minister and a son follow the same rule.

Annals. The army of Qi, the army of Song, and the army of Cao encamped at Niebei, to rescue Xing.

Gongyang. When [the text speaks of] a rescue it does not [normally] mention "encamping" — why here does it mention "encamping"? Because the rescue did not reach in time. What does "did not reach in time" mean? Xing had already perished. Who destroyed it? It seems the Di extinguished it. Why does it not say "the Di extinguished it"? To conceal it for Duke Huan's sake. Why conceal it for Duke Huan's sake? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, and Duke Huan was unable to save the victim, it was a matter of shame for Duke Huan. Why does it first say "encamped" and only afterward "rescue"? Because it concerns rulers [acting in person]. If they were rulers, why does it style them "armies" [rather than naming them]? Because [the text] does not sanction the lords arbitrarily enfeoffing [states] on their own. Why does it not sanction it? In substance it sanctions it, but in wording it does not. Why does the wording not sanction it? Because by the proper duty of the lords, they may not arbitrarily enfeoff states on their own. If, by their proper duty, they may not, then how can it be said that in substance [the text] sanctions it? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, if one had the strength to save the victim, then it was permissible to save it.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Xing moved to Chenyi.

Gongyang. What does "[a state] moved" mean? It means it was its own wish. What does "[someone] moved it" mean? It means it was not its own wish.

Annals. The army of Qi, the army of Song, and the army of Cao walled Xing.

Gongyang. This was one affair — why does [the text] repeat "the army of Qi, the army of Song, the army of Cao"? If it did not repeat "the armies," there would be no way to know that it was one affair.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day wuchen, the lady, née Jiang, passed away at Yi; the people of Qi brought her home.

Gongyang. What is Yi? A place of Qi. If it is a place of Qi, why then does it say "the people of Qi brought her home"? The lady died at Yi, and so the people of Qi brought her back. The lady died at Yi — why did the people of Qi bring her back? Duke Huan had summoned her and had her strangled to death.

Annals. The people of Chu attacked Zheng. In the eighth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, and the people of Zhulou at Cheng. In the ninth month, the duke defeated the army of Zhulou at Ying.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day renwu, Gongzi You led the army and defeated the army of Ju at Li, capturing Ju Na (莒挐).

Gongyang. Who is Ju Na? A grandee of Ju. Ju has no [recorded] grandees — why then is this recorded? To magnify Jizi's capture of him. Why magnify Jizi's capture? Jizi handled the internal trouble with correctness, and resisted the external trouble with correctness. How did he resist the external trouble with correctness? When Gongzi Qing Fu assassinated Duke Min, he fled to Ju; the people of Ju drove him out. He meant to go by way of Qi, but the people of Qi would not receive him; he turned back and lodged on the banks of the Wen River, and sent Gongzi Xisi (公子奚斯) in to plead for him. Jizi said: "The prince may not be allowed to enter; if he enters, he will be put to death!" Xisi could not bear to report this back to Qing Fu; from the southern bank, facing north, he wept. Qing Fu heard it and said: "Ah! That is Xisi's voice — so be it." Then he said: "I cannot enter!" Thereupon he raised the carriage-shaft, hanged himself with a cord, and died. When the people of Ju heard of it, they said: "We already had your traitor in hand!" — and used this to demand a ransom from Lu. The people of Lu would not give it, and because of this Ju raised an army and attacked Lu; Jizi met them in a set battle.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day dingsi, the coffin of the lady arrived from Qi.

Gongyang. Why is the lady not styled "née Jiang"? To demote her. Why demote her? Because she took part in the assassination of the duke. If so, why was she not demoted at the point of recording the assassination itself? A demotion must occur at the weightiest point, and nothing is weightier than the record of her coffin's arrival.

Year 2 (僖公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's first month, [they] walled Chuqiu.

Gongyang. Who walled it? It was for walling Wei. Why does it not say "walled Wei"? Because Wei had been extinguished. Who extinguished it? It seems the Di extinguished it. Why does it not say "the Di extinguished it"? To conceal it for Duke Huan's sake. Why conceal it for Duke Huan's sake? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, and Duke Huan was unable to save the victim, it was a matter of shame for Duke Huan. Then who walled it? Duke Huan walled it. Why does it not say "Duke Huan walled it"? Because [the text] does not sanction the lords arbitrarily enfeoffing states on their own. Why does it not sanction it? In substance it sanctions it, but in wording it does not. Why does the wording not sanction it? By the proper duty of the lords, they may not arbitrarily enfeoff states. If they may not, then how can it be said that in substance [the text] sanctions it? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, if one had the strength to save the victim, then it was permissible to save it.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day xinsi, we buried our lesser lord, Ai Jiang (哀姜).

Gongyang. Who is Ai Jiang? Duke Zhuang's wife.

Annals. The army of Yu and the army of Jin extinguished Xiayang.

Gongyang. Yu is a minor state — why is it listed ahead of the great state [Jin]? To make Yu bear the primary blame. Why make Yu bear the primary blame? Yu accepted a bribe, lent passage to the one who would extinguish another state, and thereby brought about its own ruin. How did it accept the bribe? Duke Xian (獻公) of Jin held court with his grandees and asked them: "Last night I lay down but could not sleep — what might this mean?" Among the grandees who came forward to answer, one said: "Was your rest disturbed? Perhaps some of your attendants were not at your side?" Duke Xian did not respond. Xun Xi (荀息) came forward and said: "Is it Yu and Guo that appear [in your mind]?" Duke Xian bowed and drew him forward; then he went in together with him and plotted, saying: "I wish to attack Guo, but Yu would come to its rescue; if I attack Yu, Guo would come to its rescue — what is to be done? I wish to deliberate this with you." Xun Xi answered: "If my lord uses my plan, then today you will take Guo, and tomorrow you will take Yu — what is there for my lord to worry about?" Duke Xian said: "If so, then how?" Xun Xi said: "I ask that we send the team of horses from Qu and the white jade disc of Chuiji — going there, permission can certainly be obtained. As for the treasure, it will merely leave the inner treasury and be stored in an outer repository; as for the horses, they will merely leave the inner stable and be tethered in an outer stable — what loss is that to my lord?" Duke Xian said: "Very well. And yet, Gong Zhiqi (宮之奇) is there — what of him?" Xun Xi said: "Gong Zhiqi is wise indeed! And yet, the Duke of Yu is greedy and loves treasure; on seeing the treasure he will surely not follow his counsel. I ask that we go through with sending it." So in the end they sent it, and the Duke of Yu, on seeing the treasure, consented. Gong Zhiqi did indeed remonstrate: "A record says: 'When the lips are gone, the teeth grow cold.' Yu and Guo rescuing each other is not a matter of doing each other a favor — if you consent, Jin will take Guo today, and tomorrow Yu will follow it into ruin. I beg my lord not to consent." The Duke of Yu did not follow his words, and in the end lent Jin the road, by which it took Guo. On its return, four years later, Jin turned about and took Yu. The Duke of Yu, embracing the treasure and leading the horses, arrived [before Duke Xian]. Xun Xi, on seeing this, said: "How was my plan?" Duke Xian said: "Your plan has indeed been carried out. The treasure is my treasure once more — and yet, my horses' teeth have grown old!" This was, it seems, said in jest. What is Xiayang? A town of Guo. Why is it not attached to Guo [in the record]? Because it is treated as [equivalent to] the state itself. Why is it treated as the state? Because the ruler of Guo was residing there.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the people of Jiang, and the people of Huang covenanted at Guanze.

Gongyang. Who are "the people of Jiang" and "the people of Huang"? This is the manner of speaking for distant states. If distant states arrived, then why does [the text], among the central states, speak only of Qi and Song as having arrived? For the great states it names Qi and Song; for the distant states it names Jiang and Huang — thereby [implying] that all the rest dared not fail to arrive.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, it did not rain.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. The people of Chu raided Zheng.

Year 3 (僖公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, it did not rain.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, it did not rain.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. The people of Xu took Shu.

Gongyang. Why does it say "took" it? Because it was easy.

Annals. In the sixth month, it rained.

Gongyang. Why does it say "in the sixth month it rained"? Because it rained, yet not excessively.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the people of Jiang, and the people of Huang met at Yanggu.

Gongyang. This was a great meeting — why then is it spoken of so briefly? Duke Huan said: "Do not dam up valleys; do not hoard grain; do not change the established heir; do not take a concubine as your wife."

Annals. In winter, Gongzi You went to Qi to attend the covenant.

Gongyang. What is "attending a covenant"? It means going to covenant at the other's place. What does "coming to covenant" mean? It means coming to covenant at our place.

Annals. The people of Chu attacked Zheng.

Year 4 (僖公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao, and raided Cai; Cai collapsed.

Gongyang. What is "collapsed"? It is when those below rebel against those above. For a state one says "collapsed"; for a town one says "rebelled."

Annals. Thereupon they attacked Chu, and encamped at Xing.

Gongyang. Why does it say "encamped at Xing"? Because they were waiting for someone. Waiting for whom? Waiting for Qu Wan (屈完).

Annals. In summer, the Baron of Xu, Xinchen, died. Qu Wan of Chu came to covenant at the army, and covenanted at Shaoling.

Gongyang. Who is Qu Wan? A grandee of Chu. Why is he not styled "envoy"? To honor Qu Wan. Why honor Qu Wan? Because he was set to face Duke Huan as his counterpart. Why does it say both "covenanted at the army" and "covenanted at Shaoling"? Because the army was at Shaoling. If the army was at Shaoling, why does it mention the covenant twice? To express joy at Chu's submission. What is meant by expressing joy at Chu's submission? When there is a [true] king, Chu is among the last to submit; when there is no king, it is among the first to rebel. It is a Yi-Di state, and it repeatedly troubled the Central States; the southern Yi and northern Di joined [in threatening], and the Central States survived by a thread. Duke Huan rescued the Central States and repelled the Yi and Di; in the end he subdued Jing [Chu]; for this he is credited with an achievement of a true king. Why does it say Qu Wan "came"? To credit Duke Huan as the host of the occasion. Before this there were [similar] affairs, and after this there were [similar] affairs — why single out this one? To credit Duke Huan as host, and to set forth his achievements in order.

Annals. The people of Qi seized Yuan Taotu (袁濤涂) of Chen.

Gongyang. What was Taotu's crime? He proposed a way of diverting the army. How did he propose diverting the army? Taotu said to Duke Huan: "My lord has already subdued the southern Yi — why not turn the army back along the coast eastward, subdue the eastern Yi as well, and then return?" Duke Huan said: "Very well." Thereupon he turned the army back along the coast eastward, and it became badly mired in the Pei marshes. Duke Huan turned about and seized Taotu. When [the text] speaks of a seizure, why does it sometimes style [the seizer] "marquis" and sometimes "the people [of a state]"? When "marquis" is used, it is a [legitimate] chastisement by the hegemon. When "the people" is used, it is not a chastisement by the hegemon. Here the one seized was guilty — why does this not count as a chastisement by the hegemon? In antiquity, when the Duke of Zhou campaigned east, the western states resented it; when he campaigned west, the eastern states resented it. Duke Huan had borrowed passage through Chen in order to attack Chu; the people of Chen did not wish him to return by way of their state again, because his army's conduct had not been correct. Not disciplining his own army, and merely seizing Taotu — the chastisement of the ancients was not like this.

Annals. In autumn, [Lu] together with the people of Jiang and the people of Huang attacked Chen.

Annals. In the eighth month, the duke arrived back from attacking Chu.

Gongyang. Chu had already submitted — why then does it record his return as "from attacking Chu"? Because [Chen] had turned against the covenant.

Annals. [They] buried Duke Miu of Xu. In winter, in the twelfth month, Gongsun Zi led the army and met with the people of Qi, the people of Song, the people of Wei, the people of Zheng, the people of Xu, and the people of Cao, and raided Chen.

Year 5 (僖公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin killed his heir apparent, Shen Sheng (申生).

Gongyang. Why does it directly style him "the Marquis of Jin" in recording the killing? When a ruler kills his heir apparent or a full brother by the same mother, [the text] directly styles him as "the ruler," without euphemism, in order to intensify [the condemnation].

Annals. Boji of Qi came to present her son at court.

Gongyang. Why does it say she "came to present her son at court"? This is the phrasing proper to us [Lu]; she came together with her son to court.

Annals. In summer, Gongsun Zi went to Mou. The duke, together with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao, met the royal heir apparent at Shoudai.

Gongyang. Why does [the text] set apart the meeting with the royal heir apparent? Because the heir apparent is of supreme honor. "Heir apparent" is as much as to say "heir apparent for generation after generation."

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the lords covenanted at Shoudai.

Gongyang. Why are the lords not listed individually? When one affair appears twice in the record, the first mention gives the particulars and the later one gives the general summary.

Annals. The Earl of Zheng fled home without covenanting.

Gongyang. What does "fled home without covenanting" mean? It means he could not be made to covenant. If he could not be made to covenant, why then does it say "fled home"? Master Lu (魯子) said: "It seems he would not, as the few, defy the many."

Annals. The people of Chu extinguished Xian. The Viscount of Xian fled to Huang.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the new moon day wushen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In winter, the people of Jin seized the Duke of Yu.

Gongyang. Yu had already been extinguished — why does it say he was "seized"? Because [the text] does not credit it as [a full] "extinguishing." Why not credit it as extinguishing? "Extinguish" is the honorable term for a state's fall. "Extinguish" applies when superior and inferior united their strength.

Year 6 (僖公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Cao, attacked Zheng, and besieged Xincheng.

Gongyang. For a [mere] town, [the text] does not [normally] speak of "besieging" — why here does it speak of "besieging"? Because the town was strong.

Annals. In autumn, the people of Chu besieged Xu; the lords thereupon went to rescue Xu.

Annals. In winter, the duke arrived back from attacking Zheng.

Year 7 (僖公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, the people of Qi attacked Zheng.

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Xiao Zhulou came to court. Zheng killed its grandee Shen Hou.

Gongyang. Why, in recording a killing, does it style it by [attributing the act to] the state? Styling a killing by the state is the phrasing used when a ruler kills a grandee.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, Kuan the heir apparent of Chen, and Hua the heir apparent of Zheng, and covenanted at Ningmu.

Annals. The Earl of Cao, Ban, died.

Annals. Gongzi You went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, [they] buried Duke Zhao of Cao.

Year 8 (僖公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke met with the king's man, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Baron of Xu, the Earl of Cao, Kuan the heir apparent of Chen, and Hua the heir apparent of Zheng, and covenanted at Tao.

Gongyang. Who is the "king's man"? A person of low rank. Why is he listed ahead of the lords? Because he carries the king's command.

Annals. The Earl of Zheng begged to join the covenant.

Gongyang. What is "begging to join the covenant"? It means remaining in one's own place while requesting to be included. How did he remain in his own place and request to be included? It seems this was granted him as a measure of accommodation.

Annals. In summer, the Di attacked Jin.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the di-sacrifice was performed at the Grand Temple, and the lady was thereby installed.

Gongyang. What is "using" [the di-sacrifice for this]? "Using" here means something that ought not to have been done. What is "installing"? "Installing" here means something that ought not to have been done. To use the di-sacrifice to install the lady was contrary to ritual propriety. Why is the lady not styled "née Jiang"? To demote her. Why demote her? To censure [Duke Xi for] treating a concubine as a wife. How was a concubine treated as a wife? It seems he was pressured by Qi's accompanying handmaid, who had arrived first.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day dingwei, the Heavenly King passed away.

Year 9 (僖公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, in the king's third month, on the day dingchou, the Duke of Song, Yushuo, died.

Gongyang. Why is his burial not recorded? To conceal it for [his son] Duke Xiang's sake.

Annals. In summer, the duke met with Steward Zhougong, the Marquis of Qi, the [new] Viscount of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao at Kuiqiu.

Gongyang. Who is Steward Zhougong? The one who administers the government for the Son of Heaven.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day yiyou, Boji died.

Gongyang. She had not yet married — why is her death recorded [with the term for an adult]? She had already been promised in marriage. When a woman has been promised in marriage, she is given a style-name and has the hairpin ceremony of adulthood performed for her; if she dies thereafter, her mourning is conducted according to the rites for an adult.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day wuchen, the lords covenanted at Kuiqiu.

Gongyang. Duke Huan's covenants are [usually] not dated — why is this one dated? Because [the text] regards it as perilous. What is the peril? At the meeting of Guanze, Duke Huan had a heart troubled for the Central States, and those who arrived without being summoned were the people of Jiang and Huang. At the meeting of Kuiqiu, Duke Huan grew boastful and proud of himself, and nine states rebelled. What is meant by "grew boastful"? It is as much as to say "strutting, self-satisfied." What is meant by "proud of himself"? It is as much as to say "none is equal to me."

Annals. On the day jiaxu, the Marquis of Jin, Guizhu, died. In winter, Li Ke (里克) of Jin assassinated his ruler's son, Xi Qi (奚齊).

Gongyang. This one was a ruler who had not yet completed a year — why does it say he "assassinated his ruler's son, Xi Qi" [rather than "his ruler"]? This is the designation used for the killing of a ruler who has not yet completed a year.

Year 10 (僖公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke went to Qi. The Di extinguished Wen. The Viscount of Wen fled to Wei.

Annals. Li Ke of Jin assassinated his ruler, Zhuo Zi (卓子), and his grandee, Xun Xi.

Gongyang. What is "and" [joining the two victims]? It indicates that the second was implicated. Rulers have been assassinated many times — apart from this, are there no other cases of being implicated? [One] says: there are — Kong Fu and Chou Mu were both cases of implication. Apart from Kong Fu and Chou Mu, are there no other cases of implication? [One] says: there are. If there are, why is this one recorded? Because Xun Xi was worthy. In what way was he worthy? Xun Xi may be said to have not gone back on his word. How did he not go back on his word? Xi Qi and Zhuo Zi were sons of Li Ji (驪姬); Xun Xi was their tutor. Li Ji was a beauty without equal in the state. Duke Xian loved her greatly and wished to set up her son as heir; thereupon he killed the heir apparent, Shen Sheng. Shen Sheng had been tutored by Li Ke. When Duke Xian fell ill and was about to die, he said to Xun Xi: "What must an officer be, that he may be called trustworthy?" Xun Xi answered: "If the dead could return to life, and the living need feel no shame before their words, then such a person may be called trustworthy." Duke Xian died, and Xi Qi was set up. Li Ke said to Xun Xi: "Our lord killed the rightful heir and set up one not rightful; he set aside the elder and set up the younger — what is to be done? I wish to deliberate this with you." Xun Xi said: "Our lord once asked me this very matter, and I answered: 'If the dead could return to life, and the living need feel no shame before their words, then such a person may be called trustworthy.'" Li Ke, knowing that he could not be brought into the plot, withdrew, and assassinated Xi Qi. Xun Xi set up Zhuo Zi; Li Ke assassinated Zhuo Zi; Xun Xi died for it. Xun Xi may indeed be said to have not gone back on his word!

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi and the Baron of Xu attacked the Northern Rong. Jin killed its grandee Li Ke.

Gongyang. Li Ke assassinated two rulers — why then is [his execution] not spoken of in the phrasing for "punishing a traitor"? Because at the time he was a grandee of Duke Hui. If so, who set up Duke Hui? Li Ke did. Li Ke assassinated Xi Qi and Zhuo Zi, and went to meet Duke Hui and brought him in. Li Ke set up Duke Hui — why then did Duke Hui kill him? Duke Hui said: "You have already killed those two young lords — and now you would scheme against me as well. To be your ruler, is that not a wretched thing?" Thereupon he killed him. If so, why does [the text] not speak of Duke Hui's "entering"? That Jin's leavings and enterings are not recorded is, in effect, to conceal matters for Duke Wen's sake. When Xiaobai of Qi "entered" Qi, why is it not concealed for Duke Huan's sake? Duke Huan's enjoyment of his state was long, and his excellence was manifest to the whole realm; therefore [the text] does not conceal, for his sake, the original wrongdoing. Duke Wen's enjoyment of his state was short, and his excellence had not yet been manifest to the whole realm; therefore it does conceal, for his sake, the original wrongdoing.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, it hailed heavily.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Year 11 (僖公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, Jin killed its grandee Pi Zhengfu.

Annals. In summer, the duke, together with the lady, née Jiang, met the Marquis of Qi at Yanggu.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, there was a great rain-sacrifice.

Annals. In winter, the people of Chu attacked Huang.

Year 12 (僖公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, in the king's third month, on the day gengwu, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In summer, the people of Chu extinguished Huang.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day dingchou, the Marquis of Chen, Chujiu, died.

Year 13 (僖公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the Di raided Wei.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, [they] buried Duke Xuan of Chen. The duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao at Xian.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, there was a great rain-sacrifice.

Annals. In winter, Gongzi You went to Qi.

Year 14 (僖公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, the lords walled Yuanling.

Gongyang. Who walled it? It was for walling Qi. Why wall it for Qi? Because Qi had been extinguished. Who extinguished it? It seems Xu and Ju had coerced it [to its ruin]. Why does it not say "Xu and Ju coerced it"? To conceal it for Duke Huan's sake. Why conceal it for Duke Huan's sake? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, and Duke Huan was unable to save the victim, it was a matter of shame for Duke Huan. Then who walled it? Duke Huan walled it. Why does it not say "Duke Huan walled it"? Because [the text] does not sanction the lords arbitrarily enfeoffing states on their own. Why does it not sanction it? In substance it sanctions it, but in wording it does not. Why does the wording not sanction it? By the proper duty of the lords, they may not arbitrarily enfeoff states. If they may not, then how can it be said that in substance it sanctions it? Above there was no Son of Heaven, below there was no regional chief; when the lords of the realm had states destroying one another, if one had the strength to save the victim, then it was permissible to save it.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Ji Ji (季姬) and the Viscount of Zeng had a chance meeting at Fang; [she] caused the Viscount of Zeng to come to court.

Gongyang. Why was it the Viscount of Zeng who was made, through Ji Ji, to come to court? This is the phrasing proper to us [Lu]. It was not that she made him come to court — she made him come to ask for her hand.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day xinmao, Shalu collapsed.

Gongyang. What is Shalu? A town on the [Yellow] River. This was a town — why does it speak of it "collapsing"? Because [the collapse] overwhelmed the town. Why is "Shalu collapsed" recorded? To record a portent. Portents outside [Lu] are not [normally] recorded — why is this one recorded? Because it records a portent for the whole realm.

Annals. The Di raided Zheng.

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Cai, Xi, died.

Year 15 (僖公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke went to Qi.

Annals. The people of Chu attacked Xu.

Annals. In the third month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao, covenanted at Muqiu, and thereupon encamped at Kuang.

Annals. Gongsun Ao led the army, together with the grandees of the lords, to rescue Xu.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the army of Qi and the army of Cao attacked Li.

Annals. In the eighth month, there was a locust swarm.

Annals. In the ninth month, the duke arrived back from the meeting.

Gongyang. For Duke Huan's meetings, [the duke's return] is [usually] not recorded — why is it recorded here? Because it had been long.

Annals. Ji Ji went home to Zeng. On the day jimao, the last day of the month, thunder struck the shrine of Yibo (夷伯).

Gongyang. What is "the last day of the month"? It is the moon's darkness. What is "struck"? It means thunder and lightning struck the shrine of Yibo. Who was Yibo? A trusted man of the Ji clan. If he was a trusted man of the Ji clan, he was otherwise a person of low standing — why then is he styled "Yibo"? To magnify him. Why magnify him? Because Heaven gave him a warning, and therefore [the text] magnifies him. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In winter, the people of Song attacked Cao. The people of Chu defeated Xu at Loulin.

Annals. In the eleventh month, on the day renxu, the Marquis of Jin and the Earl of Qin did battle at Han; the Marquis of Jin was captured.

Gongyang. This was a set battle — why does it not say "the army suffered a great defeat"? When the ruler himself is captured, it does not also say "the army suffered a great defeat."

Year 16 (僖公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the new moon day wushen, meteorites fell in Song: five of them. In that same month, six yi-birds flew backward, passing over the capital of Song.

Gongyang. Why does it first say "fell" and only afterward say "stones"? "Meteorites" is recorded as a matter of hearing: they heard a great crashing sound, looked and saw they were stones, examined closely and found there were five. What does "in that month" mean? It means the event barely fell within that month. Why is no day given? Because it was the last day of the month. If it was the last day of the month, why does it not say "the last day of the month"? Because the Spring and Autumn does not [normally] record the last day of the month. When there is an event on the new moon, it is recorded; when there is an event on the last day of the month, even so it is not recorded [by that date]. Why does it first say "six" and only afterward say "yi-birds"? "Six yi-birds flew backward" is recorded as a matter of sight: they looked and saw six, examined closely and found they were yi-birds, and observed slowly and found they were flying backward. Why are the "five stones" and "six yi-birds" recorded? To record portents. Portents outside [Lu] are not recorded — why is this recorded? Because [Song] is the successor of a [former] king's line, [the text] records the portent [for its wider significance].

Annals. In the third month, on the day renshen, Gongzi Ji You died.

Gongyang. Why is he styled "Ji You"? Because he was worthy.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingshen, Ji Ji of Zeng died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day jiazi, Gongsun Zi died.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, the Marquis of Xing, and the Earl of Cao at Huai.

Year 17 (僖公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, the people of Qi and the people of Xu attacked the Yingshi.

Annals. In summer, [they] extinguished Xiang.

Gongyang. Who extinguished it? Qi extinguished it. Why does it not say "Qi extinguished it"? To conceal it for Duke Huan's sake. The Spring and Autumn conceals for the worthy. But this was extinguishing another's state — what worthiness is there [to justify concealment]? The gentleman's hatred of evil is quickest at its beginning; his approval of good rejoices at its completion. Duke Huan had once had the merit of continuing severed lines and preserving states on the brink of extinction; therefore the gentleman conceals this for his sake.

Annals. In autumn, the lady, née Jiang, met [envoys of] Qi at Bian.

Annals. In the ninth month, the duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day yihai, the Marquis of Qi, Xiaobai, died.

Year 18 (僖公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke of Song met with the Earl of Cao, the people of Wei, and the people of Zhulou, and attacked Qi.

Annals. In summer, [Lu's] army went to rescue Qi. In the fifth month, on the day wuyin, the army of Song and the army of Qi did battle at Yan; the army of Qi suffered a great defeat.

Gongyang. When there is a battle, [the text] does not [also] speak of "attacking" — why does this record speak of "attacking"? The Duke of Song took part in the attack but not in the battle itself; therefore it speaks of "attacking." In the Spring and Autumn, the attacker is termed "the guest"; the one attacked is termed "the host." Why does it not let Qi be "the host" here? Because it credits Duke Xiang's rectifying campaign against Qi. Why does it credit Duke Xiang's campaign against Qi? When Duke Huan died, Shu Diao and Yi Ya struggled for power and left him unburied — it was for this reason that [Song] attacked [Qi].

Annals. The Di came to rescue Qi.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day dinghai, [they] buried Duke Huan of Qi.

Annals. In winter, the people of Xing and the people of Di attacked Wei.

Year 19 (僖公十九年)

Annals. In the nineteenth year, in spring, in the king's third month, the people of Song seized the Viscount of Teng, Yingqi.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the people of Song, the people of Cao, and the people of Zhulou covenanted at Caonan. The Viscount of Zeng joined the covenant at Zhulou.

Gongyang. Why does it say he "joined the covenant"? Because he arrived at the meeting late.

Annals. On the day jiyou, the people of Zhulou seized the Viscount of Zeng and used him.

Gongyang. In what way did they "use" him? They used him as an offering at the altar of the soil. How did they use him at the altar of the soil? It seems they struck his nose and used the blood to consecrate the altar.

Annals. In autumn, the people of Song besieged Cao. The people of Wei attacked Xing.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with the people of Chen, the people of Cai, the people of Chu, and the people of Zheng, and covenanted at Qi. Liang perished.

Gongyang. No one had attacked it — why then does it say "Liang perished"? Because it perished of itself. How did it perish of itself? It rotted from within, like a fish, and so perished.

Year 20 (僖公廿年)

Annals. In the twentieth year, in spring, [they] newly built the southern gate.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To criticize. What does it criticize? That the gate had an ancient, constant [form that should not have been altered].

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Gao came to court.

Gongyang. Who is the Viscount of Gao? A ruler who had lost his land. Why is he not named? Because of the phrasing proper for a kinsman state.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day yisi, the Western Palace suffered a fire.

Gongyang. What is the Western Palace? The lesser sleeping-quarters. If it was the lesser sleeping-quarters, why is it called the "Western Palace"? If there is a "Western Palace," then there must be an "Eastern Palace" as well. Master Lu said: "From there being a Western Palace, one may also know that the lords have three palaces." Why is "the Western Palace suffered a fire" recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. The people of Zheng entered Hua.

Annals. In autumn, the people of Qi and the people of Di covenanted at Xing.

Annals. In winter, the people of Chu attacked Sui.

Year 21 (僖公廿一年)

Annals. In the twenty-first year, in spring, the Di raided Wei. The people of Song, the people of Qi, and the people of Chu covenanted at Lushang.

Annals. In summer, there was a great drought.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke of Song, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Cai, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, and the Earl of Cao met at Huo; [the Viscount of Chu] seized the Duke of Song and thereupon attacked Song.

Gongyang. Who seized him? The Viscount of Chu seized him. Why does it not say "the Viscount of Chu seized him"? Because [the text] does not sanction a Yi-Di ruler seizing [a ruler of] the Central States.

Annals. In winter, the duke attacked Zhulou.

Annals. The people of Chu sent Yishen (宜申) to come and present the spoils of victory.

Gongyang. This was [in fact sent by] the Viscount of Chu — why is it styled "the people [of Chu]"? To demote him. Why demote him? Because of his seizing the Duke of Song, he is demoted. Why does the seizing of the Duke of Song bring about the demotion? The Duke of Song had made an appointment with the Viscount of Chu for a meeting by chariots-of-peace; Gongzi Muyi (公子目夷) remonstrated, saying: "Chu is a Yi state — strong but without righteousness. I beg my lord to go by way of a meeting under arms." The Duke of Song said: "That will not do. I made the agreement with him for a peaceful meeting; if I myself made it and I myself abandon it, that would not do." In the end he went by way of the peaceful meeting, and the people of Chu did indeed have war-chariots lying in ambush; they seized the Duke of Song and thereupon attacked Song. The Duke of Song said to Gongzi Muyi: "You, go back and guard the state. The state is your state now. I did not follow your counsel, and so I have come to this." Gongzi Muyi replied: "Even if my lord had not spoken of it, the state is, in point of duty, already mine to guard." Thereupon he returned, set up defenses and weapons, and guarded the state. The people of Chu said to the people of Song: "If you do not give us the state, we will kill your ruler." The people of Song answered them: "By the grace of the spirits of our altars of soil and grain, our state already has a ruler." The people of Chu, knowing that even if they killed the Duke of Song they still would not obtain the state of Song, thereupon released the Duke of Song. The Duke of Song, once released from captivity, fled to Wei. Gongzi Muyi said again: "The state has been guarded for my lord — why does my lord not enter it?" Only then did they go to meet Duke Xiang and bring him home. Where were the spoils taken? They were taken from Song. Why does it not say "spoils taken from Song"? To conceal it for Duke Xiang's sake. This is, in substance, the phrasing for a siege — why does it not speak of a "siege"? To conceal it for Gongzi Muyi's sake.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day guichou, the duke met with the lords and covenanted at Bo. [The Duke of Song] was released.

Gongyang. In [prior] cases of seizure, there has been no mention of "releasing" — why here does it mention "releasing"? Because our duke took part in bringing it about. How did our duke take part in bringing it about? Our duke took part in the deliberation.

Year 22 (僖公廿二年)

Annals. In the twenty-second year, in spring, the duke attacked Zhulou and took Xuqu.

Annals. In summer, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Baron of Xu, and the Viscount of Teng attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day dingwei, [Lu] did battle with the people of Zhulou at Shengxing.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the new moon day jisi, the Duke of Song and the people of Chu did battle at Hong, and the army of Song suffered a great defeat.

Gongyang. For a set battle, [the record normally gives only] the day — why here does it give the new moon? When the Spring and Autumn's wording is fuller and not abbreviated, it is to affirm correctness. What does it affirm as correct? The Duke of Song had made an appointment with the people of Chu to do battle on the sunny side of the Hong. The people of Chu crossed the Hong and came on. The officer in charge reported: "I ask that we strike them while they have not yet finished crossing." The Duke of Song said: "That will not do. I have heard it said: the gentleman does not press an advantage against a man in distress. Though I am but the remnant of a ruined state, I cannot bear to do such a thing." Once they had crossed but had not yet finished forming their ranks, the officer in charge reported again: "I ask that we strike them while they have not yet finished forming their ranks." The Duke of Song said: "That will not do. I have heard it said: the gentleman does not sound the drums against a line not yet formed." Only once they had formed their ranks did Duke Xiang sound the drums, and the army of Song suffered a great defeat. Therefore the gentleman magnifies his not drumming against an unformed line — that in the presence of a great affair he did not forget the great rites; he had a ruler but no [capable] minister; and holds that even King Wen's battles surpassed this by no more.

Year 23 (僖公廿三年)

Annals. In the twenty-third year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi attacked Song and besieged Min.

Gongyang. For a [mere] town, [the text] does not [normally] speak of "besieging" — why here does it speak of "besieging"? Because [the text] hastens to stress the severity [of the affair].

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day gengyin, the Duke of Song, Cifu, died.

Gongyang. Why is his burial not recorded? Because the concealment was carried to its fullest.

Annals. In autumn, the people of Chu attacked Chen.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, the Viscount of Qi died.

Year 24 (僖公廿四年)

Annals. In the twenty-fourth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the Di attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, the Heavenly King went out and dwelt at Zheng.

Gongyang. For a [true] king there is no "outside" — why then does it speak here of him "going out"? Because he could not get along with his mother. Master Lu said: "As for this king's not getting along with his mother — is this perhaps what is meant here?"

Annals. The Marquis of Jin, Yiwu, died.

Year 25 (僖公廿五年)

Annals. In the twenty-fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day bingwu, the Marquis of Wei, Hui, extinguished Xing.

Gongyang. Why is the Marquis of Wei, Hui, named? To cut him off. Why cut him off? Because he extinguished a state of the same surname [as his own].

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day guiyou, the Marquis of Wei, Hui, died. Dang Boji of Song came to fetch a bride.

Gongyang. Who is Dang Boji of Song? The mother of the Dang clan. Why does it say she "came to fetch a bride"? Because of the phrasing proper for a kinswoman. Why is [the bride] styled "bride"? Because of the phrasing used when there is a mother-in-law [already in the household].

Annals. Song killed its grandee.

Gongyang. Why is he not named? For three generations Song had no [properly recognized] grandees, because for three generations they had married within [the clan].

Annals. In autumn, the people of Chu besieged Chen, and restored the Viscount of Dun to Dun.

Gongyang. Why does it not say "thereupon"? Because [the text] treats them as two affairs.

Annals. [They] buried Duke Wen of Wei.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day guihai, the duke met with the Viscount of Wei and Ju Qing, and covenanted at Tao.

Year 26 (僖公廿六年)

Annals. In the twenty-sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day jiwei, the duke met with the Viscount of Ju and Ning Su of Wei, and covenanted at Xiang.

Annals. The people of Qi raided our western border. The duke pursued the army of Qi to Xi, but did not catch up.

Gongyang. Why does it say "reached Xi, but did not catch up"? To exaggerate [the duke's effort].

Annals. In summer, men of Qi (齊) attacked our northern borderlands. Men of Wei (衛) attacked Qi. Ducal Son Sui (公子遂) went to Chu (楚) to beg for troops.

Gongyang. What is meant by "beg" (乞)? It is humble language. Why does the text use the same wording whether it is an outside state or our own state [that is doing the begging]? To give weight to the matter of troops. Why give weight to the matter of troops? Because when an army sets forth improperly, it [nonetheless] returns; when it fights improperly, it [nonetheless] wins.

Annals. In autumn, men of Chu extinguished Kui (隗), and returned home with the Viscount of Kui (隗子).

Annals. In winter, men of Chu attacked Song (宋), and besieged Min.

Gongyang. For a mere settlement, [the text] does not [ordinarily] say "besieged" — why here does it say "besieged"? It censures the manner in which the troops were used.

Annals. The duke, with Chu's troops, attacked Qi and took Gu. The duke arrived back from attacking Qi.

Gongyang. Here Gu had already been taken — why does [the record of] his arrival speak of it as "from attacking"? Because [the text] does not approve of the taking of Gu. Why does it not approve of the taking of Gu? It is said: the rising of calamity will surely begin from this.

Year 27 (僖公廿七年)

Annals. In the twenty-seventh year, in spring, the Viscount of Qi (杞) came to court.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day gengyin, the Marquis of Qi (齊), Zhao, died.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day yiwei, [we] buried Duke Xiao of Qi.

Annals. On the day yisi, Ducal Son Sui led troops and entered Qi (杞).

Annals. In winter, men of Chu, the Marquis of Chen (陳), the Marquis of Cai (蔡), the Earl of Zheng (鄭), and the Baron of Xu (許) besieged Song.

Gongyang. This was [in fact] the Viscount of Chu — why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because of his seizing of the Duke of Song he is demeaned, and so, to the end of Duke Xi's record, [Chu] is [consistently] demeaned.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jiaxu, the duke met with the other lords and covenanted at Song.

Year 28 (僖公廿八年)

Annals. In the twenty-eighth year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin (晉) raided Cao (曹); the Marquis of Jin attacked Wei.

Gongyang. Why does the text name the Marquis of Jin twice? It is not treating them as two [separate] affairs. If so, then why does it not say "thereupon" (遂)? Because he had not yet raided Cao. If he had not yet raided Cao, then why does the text say he "raided Cao"? To convey his intention. His intention was to raid Cao — why then did he attack Wei? The Marquis of Jin, about to raid Cao, sought passage through Wei; Wei said this could not be granted, and so he resolved to attack it.

Annals. Ducal Son Mai garrisoned Wei; he did not complete the garrison duty, and was put to death.

Gongyang. What is meant by "did not complete the garrison duty"? It is language [used] for our own state — [it means] he could not properly have been sent there [at all]. If he could not properly have been sent, then why does the text say he "garrisoned Wei"? To follow through on the duke's intention. What is meant by "put to death"? It means he was killed. If he was killed, why does the text call it "put to death"? Within our own state, [the text] avoids [saying outright that we] killed a grandee, and so calls it "put to death."

Annals. Men of Chu rescued Wei. In the third month, on the day bingwu, the Marquis of Jin entered Cao, seized the Earl of Cao, and handed him over to the men of Song.

Gongyang. What is meant by "handed over" (畀)? It means "gave." Why does the text say he was given to the men of Song? To let them deal with him as they saw fit. What was the Earl of Cao's crime? It was extremely wicked. How was it extremely wicked? It cannot be spoken of as a single crime.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day jisi, the Marquis of Jin, the army of Qi, the army of Song, the army of Qin (秦), and the men of Chu fought at Chengpu; the army of Chu suffered a great defeat.

Gongyang. This was a great battle — why does the text make it [appear as if fought by] a minor figure? Because [on Chu's side it was] Ziyu Dechen. If it was Ziyu Dechen, then why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because a grandee is no match for a ruler.

Annals. Chu killed its grandee Dechen.

Annals. The Marquis of Wei fled into exile in Chu.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day guichou, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Cai, the Earl of Zheng, the Viscount of Wei, and the Viscount of Ju (莒), and covenanted at Jiantu. The Marquis of Chen went to the meeting.

Gongyang. What is meant by "went to the meeting"? He arrived after the meeting [had already begun].

Annals. The duke paid court at the king's place.

Gongyang. Why does the text not say the duke "went to the royal capital"? Because the Son of Heaven was present there. If the Son of Heaven was there, then why does it not say the Son of Heaven was there? It does not sanction the summoning of the Son of Heaven [to a meeting of lords].

Annals. In the sixth month, the Marquis of Wei, Zheng, returned once more from Chu to Wei.

Annals. Yuan Xuan of Wei fled into exile in Jin.

Annals. The Marquis of Chen, Kuan, died.

Annals. In autumn, Boji of Qi (杞) came [to Lu].

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Cai, the Earl of Zheng, the Viscount of Chen, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou (邾婁), and the men of Qin at Wen. The Heavenly King went hunting at Heyang.

Gongyang. A hunt is not [ordinarily] recorded — why is this one recorded? [The text] does not sanction a second summoning of the Son of Heaven. Master Lu said: "Wen is near, but Jiantu is far."

Annals. On the day renshen, the duke paid court at the king's place.

Gongyang. Why does the text give the day? To record [what concerns] our own state.

Annals. Men of Jin seized the Marquis of Wei and returned him to the royal capital.

Gongyang. What is meant by "returned him to" (歸之于)? What is meant by [simply] "returned to" (歸于)? [When the text says] "returned him to," the crime has already been determined; [when it says] "returned to," the crime has not yet been determined. If the crime has not yet been determined, then how can this be reported as a hegemon's seizure? "Returned him to" means he was seized at the very side of the Son of Heaven — whether the crime is determined can already be known. "Returned to" means he was not seized at the Son of Heaven's side — whether the crime is determined cannot yet be known. What was the Marquis of Wei's crime? He killed Shu Wu. Why is this not recorded? For Shu Wu's sake, it is concealed. The Chunqiu conceals things for the sake of the worthy. In what way was Shu Wu worthy? He yielded the state. How did he yield the state? Duke Wen of Jin had expelled the Marquis of Wei and set up Shu Wu; Shu Wu declined to be established, [fearing that] if another were established, the Marquis of Wei would be unable to return — and so, only after he himself had been established, did he hold the meeting at Jiantu and arrange for the Marquis of Wei's return. When the Marquis of Wei was able to return, he said, "Shu Wu usurped my place." Yuan Xuan disputed this, saying, "Shu Wu was guiltless." In the end [the Marquis] killed Shu Wu, and Yuan Xuan fled and went out of the state. This was [really] the Marquis of Jin — why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because the calamity of Wei was brought about by Duke Wen [of Jin]. How did Duke Wen bring it about? Duke Wen expelled the Marquis of Wei and set up Shu Wu, causing brothers to suspect one another, even to the point of the killing of a brother by the same mother — it was Duke Wen who brought this about.

Annals. Yuan Xuan of Wei returned once more from Jin to Wei.

Gongyang. What is meant by "from" (自)? It marks one who had [exerted] power there. Here [Jin] had seized his own ruler — why then does the text say "from Jin"? Because he had contended on Shu Wu's behalf.

Annals. The other lords thereupon besieged Xu. The Earl of Cao, Xiang, returned once more to Cao, and thereupon joined the other lords in besieging Xu.

Year 29 (僖公廿九年)

Annals. In the twenty-ninth year, in spring, Gelu of Jie came [to Lu].

Gongyang. Who is Gelu of Jie? He is a ruler among the Yi and Di [barbarian peoples]. Why does the text not say he came "to court"? Because he was not capable of [the forms of] a court visit.

Annals. The duke arrived back from besieging Xu.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the duke met with the king's man, the men of Jin, the men of Song, the men of Qi, the men of Chen, the men of Cai, and the men of Qin, and covenanted at Diquan.

Annals. In autumn, it rained hail heavily.

Annals. In winter, Gelu of Jie came again.

Year 30 (僖公卅年)

Annals. In the thirtieth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the Di raided Qi.

Annals. In autumn, Wei killed its grandee Yuan Xuan, along with Ducal Son Xia.

Gongyang. The Marquis of Wei had not yet arrived back — why does the text name the state as the agent of the killing? Because it happened along the way.

Annals. The Marquis of Wei, Zheng, returned to Wei.

Gongyang. Here [his men] had just killed his grandee — why then does the text speak of his "return"? To lay the blame on Yuan Xuan. Why lay the blame on Yuan Xuan? In serving his ruler, when the ruler went out Yuan Xuan came in, and when the ruler came in Yuan Xuan went out — this was reckoned as not [behaving as] a subject.

Annals. Men of Jin and men of Qin besieged Zheng.

Annals. Men of Jie raided Xiao.

Annals. In winter, the Heavenly King sent the Steward, the Duke of Zhou, to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to the royal capital, and thereupon went on to Jin.

Gongyang. A grandee has no [warrant for the word] "thereupon" to describe undertaking further business on his own initiative — why then does the text say "thereupon" here? Because the duke was unable to conduct government himself.

Year 31 (僖公卅一年)

Annals. In the thirty-first year, in spring, [we] took the fields west of the Ji.

Gongyang. From whom was it taken? It was taken from Cao. Why does the text not say it was "taken from Cao"? It conceals the taking of fields from a state of the same clan-surname. Here there had been no one who attacked Cao — so why do we say it was taken from Cao? The Marquis of Jin had seized the Earl of Cao, and distributed the lands he had taken and encroached upon to the other lords. If the Marquis of Jin seized the Earl of Cao and distributed the lands he had taken to the other lords, then why conceal the taking of fields from a state of the same surname [in our own case]? Because [enough] time had passed.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Jin. In summer, in the fourth month, the suburban sacrifice was divined four times and [the omens] were not favorable, so the sacrificial victim was set free, yet the Three Distant Sacrifices were still held.

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes say "three divinations" and sometimes "four divinations"? Three divinations accord with ritual propriety; four do not. Why do three accord with propriety, and four not? The way of seeking an auspicious sign allows three [attempts, no more]. The Di and Chang sacrifices are not divined for — why then is the suburban sacrifice divined for? Divining for the suburban sacrifice does not accord with ritual propriety. Why does divining for the suburban sacrifice not accord with propriety? Because Lu's [performing] the suburban sacrifice [at all] does not accord with propriety. Why does Lu's suburban sacrifice not accord with propriety? The Son of Heaven sacrifices to Heaven; the other lords sacrifice to the [local] earth. The Son of Heaven holds the rite of the Distant Sacrifices toward the four quarters, reaching everywhere without exception. Among the other lords, mountains and rivers not located within their own enfeoffed territory are not sacrificed to. Why does the text sometimes say "the victim was set free" and sometimes "the ox was set free"? Setting free the victim accords with propriety; setting free the ox does not. Why does setting free the ox not accord with propriety? Because once injured, [the sacrificial animal] is demoted and simply called "ox." What are the Three Distant Sacrifices? Sacrifices performed by gazing from afar. To what, then, are they sacrificed? To Mount Tai and to the rivers and seas. Why are Mount Tai and the rivers and seas sacrificed to? Mountains and rivers able to send moisture over a hundred li are, in due order, sacrificed to by the Son of Heaven. That which touches the rock and issues forth, gathers within the breadth of an inch, and before the morning is out has rained upon the whole world — only Mount Tai can do this. The rivers and seas send moisture over a thousand li. What is meant by "yet" (猶)? It indicates that, though [the rite] could properly have been stopped, it was carried through nonetheless. Why is this recorded? To criticize [Lu] for not holding the suburban sacrifice, yet still holding the Distant Sacrifices.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, Boji of Qi came to seek a wife [for her son].

Gongyang. Why does the text say she "came to seek a wife"? It is the language [used among] siblings. Why does it style her as "wife"? It is language [used when] there is [already] a mother-in-law [in the household].

Annals. The Di besieged Wei.

Annals. In the twelfth month, Wei moved [its capital] to Diqiu.

Year 32 (僖公卅二年)

Annals. In the thirty-second year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day jichou, the Earl of Zheng, Jie, died.

Annals. Men of Wei raided the Di.

Annals. In autumn, men of Wei covenanted with the Di.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day jimao, the Marquis of Jin, Chong'er, died.

Year 33 (僖公卅三年)

Annals. In the thirty-third year, in spring, in the king's second month, men of Qin entered Hua (滑). The Marquis of Qi sent Guo Guifu to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day xinsi, men of Jin, together with the Jiang Rong (姜戎), defeated Qin at Yao.

Gongyang. Why does the text call it "Qin" [naming the whole state]? To treat it as a Yi-Di [barbarian state]. Why treat it as a Yi-Di state? The Earl of Qin was about to make a surprise attack on Zheng. Baili Zi and Jianshu Zi remonstrated with him, saying: "To make a surprise attack on people a thousand li away — there has never been one who did not perish [doing so]." The Earl of Qin, enraged, said: "A man of your years — the trees over your burial mound would already be a full armspan around [before this is done] — what do you know?" The army went forth. Baili Zi and Jianshu Zi saw off their sons and warned them, saying: "When you are about to die, it will surely be among the steep crags of Yao — that is the place where King Wen once sheltered from wind and rain — I will go there to find your bones." Their sons saluted the army and set out. Baili Zi and Jianshu Zi followed after their sons and wept for them. The Earl of Qin, enraged, said: "Why do you weep for my army?" They answered: "Your servants would not dare weep for our lord's army — we weep for our own sons." Xian Gao was a merchant of Zheng. He met [the Qin army] at Yao, and, falsely claiming the command of the Earl of Zheng, presented provisions to reward the troops. Some [in the Qin camp] said [Zheng] must now be prepared, [so they should turn back]; others said they should press on regardless. In the end, however, the men of Jin together with the Jiang Rong intercepted them at Yao and struck them, so that not a single horse or wheel returned. Why does the text mention the Jiang Rong alongside [Jin]? Because the Jiang Rong were of little account, and to be styled "men" is likewise [the mark of] one of little account. Why call the Jiang Rong "of little account"? Because [in truth the commander] was Xian Zhen — though some say it was Duke Xiang [of Jin] in person. If Duke Xiang was there in person, then why does the text style him as "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because while his father still lay in the funeral hall unburied, he raised troops — this was perilous, and [the elder duke] had not yet been buried. A deceitful battle is not [ordinarily] dated by day — why then is this one dated? To make the record complete.

Annals. On the day guisi, [we] buried Duke Wen of Jin.

Annals. The Di raided Qi.

Annals. The duke attacked Zhulou, and took Cong.

Annals. In autumn, Ducal Son Sui led troops and attacked Zhulou.

Annals. Men of Jin defeated the Di at Ji.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the duke went to Qi.

Annals. In the twelfth month, the duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. On the day yisi, the duke passed away in the Small Chamber.

Annals. Frost fell but did not kill the grasses; plum and apricot trees bore fruit.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly. In what way was it anomalous? It was out of season.

Annals. Men of Jin, men of Chen, and men of Zheng attacked Xu.

Duke Wen (文公)

Year 1 (文公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke ascended the throne.

Annals. In the second month, on the day guihai, the first day of the month, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. The Heavenly King sent Shu Fu to come and join in the funeral rites.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "came to join in the funeral"? Because joining in the funeral is [proper] ritual.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day dingsi, [we] buried our ruler, Duke Xi. The Heavenly King sent Elder Mao to come and confer the [ducal] mandate on [our new] duke.

Gongyang. What is meant by "confer" (錫)? It means "bestow." What is meant by "mandate" (命)? It means to grant us [ceremonial] vestments.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin attacked Wei.

Annals. Shusun Dechen went to the royal capital.

Annals. Men of Wei attacked Jin.

Annals. In autumn, Gongsun Ao met with the Marquis of Jin at Qi (戚).

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day dingwei, the heir apparent of Chu, Shangchen, assassinated his ruler Kun.

Annals. Gongsun Ao went to Qi.

Year 2 (文公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day jiazi, the Marquis of Jin fought with the army of Qin at Pengya; the army of Qin suffered a great defeat.

Annals. On the day dingchou, [we] made the spirit tablet for Duke Xi.

Gongyang. What is meant by "made the spirit tablet for Duke Xi"? It means the spirit tablet was made for Duke Xi. What [wood] is used for the tablet? The Yu-sacrifice tablet uses mulberry wood; the tablet used at the Lian offering uses chestnut wood. Using chestnut wood means it is the tablet to be permanently stored. Why is the making of Duke Xi's tablet recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? That it was untimely. How was it untimely? [The mourner] wished to prolong the mourning, but afterward was unable to.

Annals. In the third month, on the day yisi, [we] covenanted with Chufu of Jin.

Gongyang. This was Yang Chufu of Jin — why does the text omit his lineage surname? To conceal [the impropriety of] covenanting with a mere grandee.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Gongsun Ao met with the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Earl of Zheng, and Shi Hu of Jin, and covenanted at Chuilian.

Annals. From the twelfth month there was no rain, until the seventh month of autumn.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly. A great drought is recorded as a calamity — this too was a drought — why then is it recorded as an anomaly? A great drought's span is short yet is called a calamity; here the span without rain was long, yet no calamity resulted, and so it is recorded as an anomaly.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day dingmao, [we] held the great rite in the Grand Ancestral Temple, and advanced [the tablet of] Duke Xi.

Gongyang. What is the "great rite"? It is the Great Xia sacrifice. What is the Great Xia sacrifice? It is the joint sacrifice [to all ancestors together]. How is the joint sacrifice performed? The tablets of [ancestors whose] temples have already been dismantled are set out before the Grand Ancestor; the tablets of [ancestors whose] temples have not been dismantled are all brought up, and all partake of the offering together before the Grand Ancestor — once every five years there are two such grand sacrifices. What is meant by "advanced" (躋)? It means "raised in precedence." Why does the text speak of "raising [the precedence of] Duke Xi"? To criticize. What is criticized? A sacrifice performed in reverse order. How was it in reverse order? [The tablet of] the nearer father was placed ahead of [that of] the [more senior] ancestor.

Annals. In winter, men of Jin, men of Song, men of Chen, and men of Zheng attacked Qin.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Qi to present the betrothal gifts.

Gongyang. The presenting of betrothal gifts is not [ordinarily] recorded — why is it recorded here? To criticize. What is criticized? It criticizes marrying while [still properly] in mourning. [But] the marriage itself took place beyond the three years [of mourning] — so why criticize a marriage [contracted] during mourning? Within the three years, one does not so much as plan a marriage. The auspicious Di-sacrifice held for Duke Zhuang [too soon after mourning] is likewise criticized. If so, then why is it not at the sacrifice itself that [the text] voices its criticism [of this practice]? Because the grief owed during the three years is not imposed as an empty formality — it rests on the belief that every human heart possesses this feeling naturally. If every human heart is held to possess this feeling naturally, then why is it only at the marriage that [the text] singles out its criticism? Because marrying is a great joy, no ordinary joy. Its being a joy centers on oneself — and if one is held still to carry [proper mourning] feeling in the heart, then it is exactly here, [at such a moment of personal joy,] that this feeling ought most to assert itself!

Year 3 (文公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, Shusun Dechen met with men of Jin, men of Song, men of Chen, men of Wei, and men of Zheng, and attacked Shen (沈); Shen collapsed in rout.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the king's son, Hu, died.

Gongyang. Who is the king's son Hu? He is a grandee of the Son of Heaven. Grandees of outside states are not [ordinarily recorded as] dying — why is his death recorded here? Because he had newly been sent [as envoy] to us.

Annals. Men of Qin attacked Jin.

Annals. In autumn, men of Chu besieged Jiang (江).

Annals. It rained locusts at Song.

Gongyang. What is meant by "rained locusts"? They died and fell [from the sky]. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly. Anomalies of outside states are not [ordinarily] recorded — why is this recorded? Because Song, as the successor of the [former] kings, has its anomalies recorded for that reason.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jisi, the duke covenanted with the Marquis of Jin.

Annals. Yang Chufu of Jin led troops, attacked Chu, and rescued Jiang.

Gongyang. This was in fact an attack on Chu — why does the text speak of "rescuing Jiang"? Because it was a deceptive pretext. How was it a deceptive pretext? The attack on Chu was presented as if for the sake of rescuing Jiang.

Year 4 (文公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, the duke arrived back from Jin.

Annals. In summer, [we] went to receive Lady Jiang, [our new] wife, from Qi.

Gongyang. Why does the text call her "wife Jiang, received from Qi"? To abbreviate [the account]. Master Gao said: "When one takes a wife from [the house of] a grandee, [the record] abbreviates it."

Annals. The Di raided Qi.

Annals. In autumn, men of Chu extinguished Jiang.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin attacked Qin.

Annals. The Marquis of Wei sent Ning Yu to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day renyin, the duke's wife, Lady Feng, passed away.

Year 5 (文公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the king sent Rong Shu to bring the mouth-jade offering together with funerary gifts.

Gongyang. What is the mouth-jade offering (含)? It is what fills the mouth [of the deceased]. Why does the text say he "brought the mouth-jade offering together with funerary gifts"? Because the two were combined into a single mission. Combining them does not accord with ritual propriety.

Annals. In the third month, on the day xinhai, [we] buried our lesser lord, Cheng Feng.

Gongyang. Who is Cheng Feng? She is Duke Xi's mother.

Annals. The king sent Elder Shao to come and join in the funeral rites.

Annals. In summer, Gongsun Ao went to Jin.

Annals. Men of Qin entered Ruo.

Annals. In autumn, men of Chu extinguished Liu.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day jiashen, the Baron of Xu, Ye, died.

Year 6 (文公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, [we] buried Duke Xi of Xu.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Hangfu went to Chen.

Annals. In autumn, Jisun Hangfu went to Jin.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day yihai, the Marquis of Jin, Huan, died.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Ducal Son Sui went to Jin.

Annals. [We] buried Duke Xiang of Jin.

Annals. Jin killed its grandee Yang Chufu; Hu Yigu of Jin fled into exile among the Di.

Gongyang. If Jin killed its grandee Yang Chufu, then why did Hu Yigu flee into exile? Because it was Yigu who did the killing. If it was Yigu who did the killing, then why does the text name the state as the agent of the killing? Because the ruler let slip words [he should have kept secret]. How did he let slip the words? The ruler had been about to make Yigu a commander. Yang Chufu remonstrated, saying: "The people are not pleased with Yigu — he cannot be made a commander." Thereupon [Yigu's] command was set aside; Yang Chufu went out to take the post, and Yigu was passed over. The ruler said to Yigu: "Yang Chufu said, 'The people are not pleased with Yigu — he cannot be made a commander.'" Yigu, enraged, went out and stabbed Yang Chufu to death at court, and fled.

Annals. In the intercalary month, [the duke] did not announce the [new] month, yet still paid court at the [ancestral] temple.

Gongyang. What is meant by "did not announce the month"? He did not announce the new moon. Why did he not announce the new moon? Because Heaven has no such month. [But] it was an intercalary month all the same — why then say Heaven has no such month? Because this month is not a regular month. What is meant by "yet" (猶)? It indicates that, though [the rite] could properly have been stopped, it was carried through nonetheless.

Year 7 (文公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, the duke attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In the third month, on the day jiaxu, [we] took Xuqu.

Gongyang. The taking of a settlement is not [ordinarily] dated by day — why is this one dated? It is language [used] for our own state, making it seem as if [done by] someone else.

Annals. [We] thereupon walled Wu.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the Duke of Song, Wangchen, died.

Annals. Men of Song killed their grandee.

Gongyang. Why is he not named? Because for three generations Song had no [properly recognized] grandees — for three generations [its rulers] had married within [their own state].

Annals. On the day wuzi, men of Jin fought with men of Qin at Linghu; Xian Mei of Jin fled with his troops to Qin.

Gongyang. This was a formally arrayed battle — why does the text not say the army "suffered a great defeat"? Because the two sides were equally matched. This was Xian Mei of Jin — why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because he had gone outside [his allegiance]. How had he gone outside? Because he took his troops outside [Jin, to Qin]. Why does the text not say he "went out [into exile]"? Because he was already outside [Jin] when this happened.

Annals. The Di raided our western borderlands.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the duke met with the other lords and a grandee of Jin, and covenanted at Hu.

Gongyang. Why are the other lords not listed in order? Why is the grandee not named? Because the duke lost his [proper] precedence. How did the duke lose his precedence? The other lords could not be made to covenant with the duke [directly], and instead signaled the grandee of Jin to covenant with the duke in their place.

Annals. In winter, Xu attacked Ju. Gongsun Ao went to Ju to attend a covenant.

Year 8 (文公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day wushen, the Heavenly King died.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day renwu, Ducal Son Sui met with Zhao Dun of Jin, and covenanted at Hengyong.

Annals. On the day yiyou, Ducal Son Sui met with the Yi-Luo Rong, and covenanted at Bao.

Annals. Gongsun Ao went to the royal capital but did not arrive and return; on the day bingxu, he fled to Ju.

Gongyang. What is meant by "did not arrive and return"? It is language [used] for our own state — [meaning] he could not properly have been sent. If he could not properly have been sent, then why does the text say he "went to the royal capital"? To follow through on the duke's intention. Why does it not say he "went out [into exile]"? Because he was already outside [Lu] when this happened.

Annals. There was a plague of locusts.

Annals. Men of Song killed their grandee the Marshal; the Minister of Works of Song fled here for refuge.

Gongyang. What is "Marshal"? What is "Minister of Works"? Both are designations by office. Why are both designated by office [rather than by name]? Because for three generations Song had no [properly recognized] grandees — for three generations [its rulers] had married within [their own state].

Year 9 (文公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, Elder Mao came to seek gold.

Gongyang. Who is Elder Mao? He is a grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why does the text not say he was "sent" [by the king]? Because [the new king] was still in mourning and had not yet properly become ruler. [But] a year had already passed — why then say he had not yet become ruler? He had ascended the throne, but had not yet been styled "king." If he had not yet been styled king, how do we know he had already ascended the throne? Because just as the other lords ascend their thrones once a year has passed [after the old ruler's death], so we know the Son of Heaven ascends his throne once a year has passed. Because the Son of Heaven, [waiting] three years, is only then styled "king," so we know that the other lords, within their own enfeoffed territories, are for three years styled [merely] "zi" (子 — the mourning-heir style, not the rank of viscount). [Yet] once a year has passed [outsiders already] call the new ruler "duke" — why then, within his own territory, is he for three years called "zi"? By the sentiment of the people and the ministers, there cannot be a single day without a ruler; by the principle governing beginnings and endings, within one year there are not two rulers, [yet] there cannot be a whole year with no ruler [recognized] either; by the feeling of a filial son, for three years he cannot bear to take up [the title in full]. Why is it recorded that Elder Mao came to seek gold? To criticize. What is criticized? A king seeks nothing [from his vassals] — seeking gold does not accord with ritual propriety. If so, then was this truly [the act of] a king? It is said: no. If he was not [yet properly] a king, then why does the text treat this as a king's mission? A king seeks nothing — [yet the text implies] this was [still] the king's son. Continuing the person of King Wen, upholding King Wen's laws and statutes — [but] King Wen's law was to seek nothing, and yet here there was a seeking, and so it is criticized.

Annals. The duke's wife, Lady Jiang, went to Qi.

Annals. In the second month, Shusun Dechen went to the royal capital.

Annals. On the day xinchou, [we] buried King Xiang.

Gongyang. The burial of a king is not [ordinarily] recorded — why is it recorded here? [Burials] not on time are recorded; [burials] overdue are recorded; [burials] to which we sent someone are recorded.

Annals. Men of Jin killed their grandee Xian Du.

Annals. In the third month, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, arrived back from Qi.

Annals. Men of Jin killed their grandees Shi Mei and Ji Zhengfu.

Annals. Men of Chu attacked Zheng.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui met with men of Jin, men of Song, men of Wei, and men of Xu, and rescued Zheng.

Annals. In summer, the Di raided Qi.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the Earl of Cao, Xiang, died.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day guiyou, there was an earthquake.

Gongyang. What is an "earthquake"? It is the earth moving [of itself]. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly.

Annals. In winter, the Viscount of Chu sent Jiao to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Who is Jiao? He is a grandee of Chu. Chu has no [recognized] grandees — why then is this recorded? Because it was the first time [Chu] had a grandee [so recognized]. If it was the first time, then why does the text omit his lineage surname? Because in granting recognition to a Yi-Di state, it is not done all at once and in full measure.

Annals. Men of Qin came to bring shroud-gifts for Duke Xi and Cheng Feng.

Gongyang. Why does the text name Duke Xi and Cheng Feng [together]? Because the two [gifts] were combined into one mission. Combining them does not accord with ritual propriety. Why does the text not say "[Duke Xi] and Cheng Feng"? Because Cheng Feng is too honored [to be joined by the word "and"].

Annals. [We] buried Duke Gong of Cao.

Year 10 (文公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's third month, on the day xinmao, Zangsun Chen died.

Annals. In summer, Qin attacked Jin.

Annals. Chu killed its grandee Yishen.

Annals. From the first month there was no rain, until the seventh month of autumn.

Annals. [We] covenanted with the Viscount of Su at Nüli.

Annals. In winter, the Di raided Song.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu and the Marquis of Cai encamped at Qumo.

Year 11 (文公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, the Viscount of Chu attacked Juan.

Annals. In summer, Shu Pengsheng met with Xi Que of Jin at Chengkuang.

Annals. In autumn, the Earl of Cao came to court.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Song.

Annals. The Di raided Qi.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day jiawu, Shusun Dechen defeated the Di at Xian.

Gongyang. Who were "the Di"? They were the Long Di (giant Di). There were three brothers: one went to Qi, one went to Lu, and one went to Jin. The one who went to Qi was killed by Wangzi Chengfu; the one who went to Lu was killed by Shusun Dechen; what became of the one who went to Jin is not known. Why does the text say [Shusun] "defeated" [them]? To magnify it. Why does it give the day? To magnify it. Why does it give the place? To magnify it. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly.

Year 12 (文公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Earl of Sheng came here for refuge.

Gongyang. Who is the Earl of Sheng? A ruler who had lost his territory. Why is he not named? It is the language [used among] siblings.

Annals. The Earl of Qi (杞) came to court.

Annals. In the second month, on the day gengzi, Zi Shuji died.

Gongyang. She had not yet married — why is her death recorded [as an adult's would be]? Because she had already been promised in marriage. When a woman has been promised in marriage, she is given a style-name and has her hair pinned up [in the adult manner]; if she dies, she is treated with the mourning rites of an adult. Why is she styled "Zi"? To honor her. Why was she honored? Because she was a sister by the same mother [as the duke].

Annals. In summer, men of Chu besieged Chao.

Annals. In autumn, the Viscount of Teng came to court.

Annals. The Earl of Qin sent Sui to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Who is Sui? A grandee of Qin. Qin has no [recognized] grandees — why then is this recorded? To honor Duke Mu [of Qin] as worthy. In what way was Duke Mu worthy? Because he was held capable of changing his ways. How was he capable of changing? [He came to see:] "There are only those glib, plausible speakers, skilled at specious words, who make a noble man grow careless and remiss — how much more so when we have many of them! [Better instead is] the single, sincere, single-minded man, without other skills, whose heart is generous and magnanimous, able to show tolerance — that is the hard [and valuable] thing."

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day wuwu, men of Jin and men of Qin fought at Hequ.

Gongyang. This was a formally arrayed battle — why does the text not say the army "suffered a great defeat"? Because the two sides were equally matched. Why is the place given by [reference to] a body of water? Because Hequ [the River Bend] lies far and scattered — the River runs a thousand li for each single bend.

Annals. Jisun Hangfu led troops and walled Zhu and Yun.

Year 13 (文公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day renwu, the Marquis of Chen, Shuo, died.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou, Quchu, died.

Annals. From the first month there was no rain, until the seventh month of autumn.

Annals. The roof of the Hereditary Chamber collapsed.

Gongyang. What is the "Hereditary Chamber" (世室)? It is the temple of the Duke of Lu. The Duke of Zhou's [temple] is called the Grand Ancestral Temple; the Duke of Lu's is called the Hereditary Chamber; the [temples of] the several later dukes are called [merely] "halls." This was the temple of the Duke of Lu — why is it called the Hereditary Chamber? Hereditary Chamber means precisely that — a chamber that, generation after generation, is not dismantled. Why is the Duke of Zhou's [temple], though in Lu, called the Grand Ancestral Temple? Because the Duke of Lu [Bo Qin] was enfeoffed there on the Duke of Zhou's behalf. The Duke of Zhou [is imagined to] bow in front, and the Duke of Lu bows behind him. It is said: in life, [Bo Qin] served to support the Duke of Zhou; in death, he serves as host [of sacrifices] for the Duke of Zhou. If so, then did the Duke of Zhou himself ever go to Lu? It is said: he did not go to Lu; [Bo Qin] was enfeoffed there to be, in effect, the Duke of Zhou's host. If so, then why did the Duke of Zhou not go to Lu himself? Because [the royal house] wished the whole world to be united under Zhou. When Lu sacrifices to the Duke of Zhou, what victim is used? For the Duke of Zhou a white bull-calf is used; for the Duke of Lu a red bull-calf; for the several [later] dukes, [victims] of no single specified color. When Lu sacrifices to the Duke of Zhou, how lavish is the provision? For the Duke of Zhou, [the finest] abundance; for the Duke of Lu, a covered [lesser] provision; for the several dukes, [plain] stored grain only. Why is the collapse of the Hereditary Chamber's roof recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? That it had long gone unrepaired.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin.

Annals. The Marquis of Wei held a meeting at Ta.

Annals. The Di raided Wei.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jichou, the duke covenanted with the Marquis of Jin, and returned from Jin.

Annals. The Earl of Zheng met with the duke at Fei.

Gongyang. What is meant by "returned" (還)? It is language of approval. Why approve? On the outward journey, the Marquis of Wei met with the duke at Ta, [enabling him] to reach [Jin] and covenant with the Marquis of Jin; on the return journey, the Earl of Zheng met with the duke at Fei — and so [the text] approves of it.

Year 14 (文公十有四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke arrived back from Jin.

Annals. Men of Zhulou attacked our southern borderlands.

Annals. Shu Pengsheng led troops and attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day yihai, the Marquis of Qi, Pan, died.

Annals. In the sixth month, the duke met with the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu, the Earl of Cao, and Zhao Dun of Jin.

Annals. On the day guiyou, [they] covenanted together at Xincheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, a comet-star entered the Northern Dipper.

Gongyang. What is a "bo-star"? It is a comet. Why does the text say it "entered" the Northern Dipper? Because the Northern Dipper has a center [into which it passed]. Why is this recorded? To record an anomaly.

Annals. The duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. Men of Jin brought Jiezi into Zhulou [to install him as ruler], but were unable to install him.

Gongyang. What is meant by "brought in" (納)? It is language for entering. Why does the text say they "were unable to install him"? To magnify their being unable to install him. Why magnify it? Xi Que of Jin led an army of eight hundred war-chariots to bring Jiezi into Zhulou, with force so abundant it seemed more than sufficient to install him. But the men of Zhulou said: "Jiezi is the son of a Jin [mother]; Jue Qie is the son of a Qi [mother]. Reckoned by [the ritual counting of] degrees of kinship, Jiezi stands at the fourth degree, and Jue Qie at the sixth. If you would press us with your great state's might, we do not yet know whether Qi or Jin would in the end have the better of it — as for their being honored, both are honored equally. Nonetheless, Jue Qie is the elder." Xi Que said: "It is not that my strength cannot install him — it is that, in righteousness, I truly cannot overcome this." He then withdrew his troops and departed — and so the noble man magnifies [his] being unable to install him. This was in fact Xi Que of Jin — why is he styled "men"? To demean him. Why demean him? Because [the text] does not sanction a grandee's taking sole charge of deposing and installing a ruler. Why does it not sanction this? In substance it does sanction it, but in its wording it does not. Why does the wording not sanction it? Because by the principle governing grandees, they must not take sole charge of deposing and installing a ruler.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day jiashen, Gongsun Ao died in Qi.

Annals. Ducal Son Shangren of Qi assassinated his ruler, She.

Gongyang. This was a ruler who had not yet completed a year [on the throne] — why does the text still say he "assassinated his ruler She"? [Shangren] himself had installed him, and he himself killed him — [the text] gives full status to the dead man and demeans the living [murderer].

Annals. Zi'ai of Song came here for refuge.

Gongyang. Who is Zi'ai of Song? Nothing further is known of him.

Annals. In winter, Elder Shan went to Qi.

Annals. Men of Qi seized Elder Shan; men of Qi seized Zi Shuji.

Gongyang. When [the text records] a seizure, why does it sometimes style [the seized man] as an "envoy," and sometimes not? When it styles him an envoy and he is seized, it is because he was seized in the course of his mission; when it does not style him an envoy and he is seized, it is because he was seized on his own account. What was Elder Shan's crime? Illicit relations along the way. With whom? With Zi Shuji. If so, then why does the text not say "men of Qi seized Elder Shan and Zi Shuji"? It is language [used] for our own state, making it appear as though [the two were seized for] separate crimes.

Year 15 (文公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, Jisun Hangfu went to Jin.

Annals. In the third month, the Marshal of Song, Huasun, came to covenant.

Annals. In summer, the Earl of Cao came to court.

Annals. Men of Qi returned Gongsun Ao's body for burial.

Gongyang. Why does the text not say [the body] "came" [to us]? It is language [used] for our own state — in truth they coerced us, and it was returned to us borne and brought under duress.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day xinchou, the first day of the month, the sun was eclipsed; [we] drummed and used a victim at the altar of soil.

Annals. Elder Shan arrived back from Qi.

Annals. Xi Que of Jin led troops and attacked Cai; on the day wushen, [they] entered Cai.

Gongyang. When [troops] "enter" [a state], the text does not [also] say "attack" — why here does it say "attack"? Because it was the very day of arrival. Why does it give the day? Because it was the very day of arrival.

Annals. In autumn, men of Qi raided our western borderlands.

Annals. Jisun Hangfu went to Jin.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, the other lords covenanted at Hu.

Annals. In the twelfth month, men of Qi came and returned Zi Shuji [to us].

Gongyang. Why does the text say "came"? To pity her. Here she had committed a crime — why pity her? A father and mother, toward their child, even when the child has committed a crime, still act as though unwilling to see the child submit to punishment.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi raided our western borderlands, and thereupon attacked Cao, entering its outer walls.

Gongyang. What is the "outer wall"? It is the extended outer rampart. Is entering the outer wall [ordinarily] recorded? It is said: it is not recorded. If entering the outer wall is not ordinarily recorded, why is it recorded here? Because it stirred us [to alarm]. What is meant by "stirred us"? It is language [used] for our own state — in truth, it was we who were stirred.

Year 16 (文公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, Jisun Hangfu met with the Marquis of Qi at Yanggu; the Marquis of Qi did not [in the end] join in a covenant.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "did not join in a covenant"? Because he was not permitted to covenant with him.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the duke four times did not observe the new-moon rite.

Gongyang. Why did the duke four times not observe the new-moon rite? The duke was ill. Why does the text say the duke, being ill, did not observe the new-moon rite? Because from this point on the duke, even when not ill, [ceased to] observe the new-moon rite. If so, then why does it not say, "the duke, not being ill, did not observe the new-moon rite"? Because [that he did not observe it while] ill can still be spoken of; [that he did not observe it while] not ill cannot properly be spoken of.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day wuchen, Ducal Son Sui covenanted with the Marquis of Qi at Xiqiu.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day xinwei, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, passed away.

Annals. [We] tore down the Spring Terrace.

Gongyang. What is the "Spring Terrace"? It is the Lang Terrace. If it is the Lang Terrace, then why is it called the Spring Terrace? Before its completion it was called the Lang Terrace; once completed, it was called the Spring Terrace. Why is the tearing down of the Spring Terrace recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? Both the building of it and the tearing down of it are criticized. [If] the ancestors built it, and [now their descendant] himself tears it down — better simply not to have occupied it at all!

Annals. Men of Chu, men of Qin, and men of Ba (巴) extinguished Yong.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, men of Song assassinated their ruler, Chujiu.

Gongyang. When a ruler is assassinated, why does the text sometimes name and give the surname [of the assassin], and sometimes not? When a grandee assassinates a ruler, he is named and given his surname; a man of low standing is [simply] classed to the fullest extent among "men." When grandees kill one another, [the killer] is styled "men"; a man of low standing is classed to the fullest extent among "bandits."

Year 17 (文公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, men of Jin, men of Wei, men of Chen, and men of Zheng attacked Song.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day guihai, [we] buried our lesser lord, Sheng Jiang.

Gongyang. Who is Sheng Jiang? She is Duke Wen's mother.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi attacked our western borderlands.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day guiwei, the duke covenanted with the Marquis of Qi at Gu.

Annals. The other lords met at Hu.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived back from Gu.

Annals. In winter, Ducal Son Sui went to Qi.

Year 18 (文公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day dingchou, the duke passed away below the Terrace.

Annals. The Earl of Qin, Ying, died.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day wuxu, men of Qi assassinated their ruler, Shangren.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day guiyou, [we] buried our ruler, Duke Wen.

Annals. In autumn, Ducal Son Sui and Shusun Dechen went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the [young] ruler died.

Gongyang. Who is meant by "the [young] ruler died"? It refers to Zi Chi. Why does the text not give the day? To conceal it out of compassion. Why conceal it? Because he was assassinated. If he was assassinated, why does the text not give the day? Because it cannot bear to speak [the matter fully].

Annals. The duke's wife, Lady Jiang, returned to Qi.

Annals. Jisun Hangfu went to Qi. Ju assassinated its ruler, Shuqi.

Gongyang. When a state [as a whole] is named as the agent of an assassination, what is meant? Naming the state as the agent is the language [used] when the multitude together assassinated the ruler.

Duke Xuan (宣公)

Year 1 (宣公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke ascended the throne.

Gongyang. When a ruler succeeds one who was assassinated, [the text] does not [ordinarily] say he "ascended the throne" — why does it say so here? Because it was [in fact] his own intention [to succeed by this very means].

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Qi to receive [a bride for] the ruler. In the third month, Sui, with the duke's wife, wife Jiang, arrived back from Qi.

Gongyang. Why is Sui here not styled "Ducal Son"? When one man appears twice in a single affair, [the second mention] uses his name alone. Why is the duke's wife not styled "Lady Jiang"? To demean her. Why demean her? To criticize the marrying while [still properly] in mourning. [But] it was the duke who married while in mourning — why then demean the wife? Because within our own state, regarding our ruler, there is no way to demean the duke. If within our own state there is no way to demean the duke, then why demean the wife instead? Because the wife and the duke are one body. Why does the text style her "wife" (婦)? It is language [used when] there is [already] a mother-in-law [in the household].

Annals. In summer, Jisun Hangfu went to Qi.

Annals. Jin banished its grandee Xu Jiafu to Wei.

Gongyang. What is meant by "banished" (放)? It is much as saying, "do not leave this place." If so, then why does the text speak [approvingly] of it? Because it comes close to being correct. In what way does this come close to being correct? In antiquity, when a grandee had [already] departed [from office in disgrace], for three years he awaited [formal] banishment. For the ruler [himself] to banish him would be wrong; for the grandee to await banishment is correct. In antiquity, when a subject had a great mourning [to observe], the ruler for three years would not summon him to his gate. Once the mourning was complete he might wear the ceremonial cap, and take up affairs of metal and leather [military and state service]. For the ruler to send for him [before that] would be wrong; for the subject himself to undertake it [voluntarily] accords with ritual propriety. Min Zi [Min Sun, i.e. Min Ziqian, a disciple of Confucius (孔子)] once bound on the mourning sash and took up his duties; afterward he said: "Is it to be like this? The ways of antiquity do not [always] match the human heart" — and he withdrew and resigned his office. Confucius, it seems, approved of him for this.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Qi at Pingzhou.

Annals. Ducal Son Sui went to Qi.

Annals. In the sixth month, men of Qi took the fields west of the Ji.

Gongyang. When an outside state takes a settlement [from us], it is not [ordinarily] recorded — why is it recorded here? Because it was in fact a bribe given to Qi. Why was Qi bribed? As the bribe [paid] for [Qi's acquiescence in] the assassination of Zi Chi.

Annals. In autumn, the Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu and men of Zheng raided Chen, and thereupon raided Song.

Annals. Zhao Dun of Jin led troops and rescued Chen. The Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Cao met the army of Jin at Feilin, and attacked Zheng.

Gongyang. This was in fact Zhao Dun of Jin's army — why does the text not say "Zhao Dun's army"? It is language that avoids saying [other states'] rulers met with a mere grandee.

Annals. In winter, Zhao Chuan of Jin led troops and raided Liu.

Gongyang. What is Liu? It is a settlement of the Son of Heaven. Why does the text not attach it to [the name] Zhou? Because it does not sanction [treating this as] an attack upon the Son of Heaven.

Annals. Men of Jin and men of Song attacked Zheng.

Year 2 (宣公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day renzi, Hua Yuan of Song led an army, and Gongzi Guisheng of Zheng led an army, and they fought at Daji. The army of Song was utterly defeated, and Hua Yuan of Song was captured.

Annals. The army of Qin attacked Jin.

Annals. In summer, men of Jin, men of Song, men of Wei, and men of Chen raided Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, on the day yichou, Zhao Dun (趙盾) of Jin assassinated his ruler Yigao.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day yihai, the Heavenly King passed away.

Year 3 (宣公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, the mouth of the sacrificial ox for the suburban sacrifice was injured; a new ox was divined for. The ox died, and so the suburban sacrifice was not held; yet the Three Vistas were still offered.

Gongyang. Why does it say this? Because the matter dragged on slowly. Why did they not divine again? In raising the sacrificial oxen, two were always kept ready by divination. If the ox meant for the High Sovereign proved inauspicious, then the ox meant for Lord Millet (稷) was drawn upon and divined for in its place. The ox for the High Sovereign was kept penned for three months, being purified; for the ox meant for Millet, only its physical completeness was examined. In the suburban sacrifice, why must Millet also be sacrificed to? Because the true king must pair his offering with his own ancestor. Why must the king pair it with his ancestor? What proceeds from within has no companion and so cannot go forward; what arrives from without has no host and so cannot come to rest.

Annals. King Kuang was buried.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked the Rong of Benhun.

Annals. In summer, men of Chu raided Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, the Red Di raided Qi.

Annals. The army of Song besieged Cao.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day bingxu, the Earl of Zheng, Lan, died. Duke Mu of Zheng was buried.

Year 4 (宣公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke and the Marquis of Qi made peace between Ju and Tan. The men of Ju would not consent; the Duke attacked Ju and took Xiang.

Gongyang. This was a peacemaking with Ju — why then does it say "would not consent"? It is the wording by which the taking of Xiang is accounted for.

Annals. The Earl of Qin, Dao, died.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day yiyou, Gongzi Guisheng of Zheng assassinated his ruler Yi.

Annals. The Red Di raided Qi.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke went to Qi. The Duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. In winter, the Viscount of Chu attacked Zheng.

Year 5 (宣公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, the Duke went to Qi. In summer, the Duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, Gao Gu of Qi came to receive Zishu Ji (子叔姬), a daughter of the Lu ducal house, in marriage.

Annals. Shusun Dechen died.

Annals. In winter, Gao Gu of Qi and Zishu Ji came to Lu.

Gongyang. Why does it mention Gao Gu's coming? To speak of Shu Ji's coming without speaking of Gao Gu's coming would not do. Master Gongyang said: "Is it not because the two came together, paired, arriving as one!"

Annals. Men of Chu attacked Zheng.

Year 6 (宣公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, Zhao Dun of Jin and Sun Mian of Wei raided Chen.

Gongyang. Zhao Dun assassinated his ruler — why does he appear again here? The one who with his own hand assassinated the ruler was Zhao Chuan (趙穿). If the one who with his own hand assassinated the ruler was Zhao Chuan, then why is the deed laid upon Zhao Dun? Because he did not punish the culprit. How do we know he did not punish the culprit? The scribe of Jin recorded the deed, saying: "Zhao Dun of Jin assassinated his ruler Yigao." Zhao Dun said: "Heaven! I am innocent! I did not assassinate my ruler — who is it that says I assassinated my ruler?" The scribe said: "You play the part of the humane and the righteous, yet another assassinated your ruler, and when you returned to the state you did not punish the culprit — if this is not assassinating the ruler, what is it?"

How did Zhao Dun come to return to the state? Duke Ling behaved without the Way: he made all the grandees assemble within the court, and then, taking his place atop a tower, drew his pellet-bow and shot pellets down among them, while they scurried about dodging the pellets — this being for his amusement, nothing more. Zhao Dun, having attended court, went out and stood with the other grandees, when a man carrying a basket came out from a side gate. Zhao Dun said: "What is that? Why does that basket come out from the side gate?" He called to the man, who would not come; someone said: "You are a grandee — if you wish to see, go and look for yourself." Zhao Dun went and looked, and there, plain to see, was a dead man. Zhao Dun said: "What is this?" [Someone] said: "It is the chief cook. The bear's paw was not cooked through; the Duke, enraged, struck him with a ladle and killed him, and dismembered him, and has ordered me to carry him out." Zhao Dun said: "Alas!" and hurried inside.

Duke Ling, seeing Zhao Dun approach, took fright, and bowed to him twice. Zhao Dun withdrew hesitantly, faced north, bowed twice with his head to the ground, and hurried out. Duke Ling's heart was troubled with shame, and he wished to kill him. Thereupon he sent a certain brave warrior to go and kill him. The warrior entered the great gate, and there was no one guarding the gate; he entered the side gate, and there was no one guarding it; he went up to the hall, and there was no one there. He bent down and peered through the doorway, and saw Zhao Dun just then eating a meal of fish and gruel. The warrior said: "Alas! You are truly a humane man! I entered your great gate, and there was no one there; I entered your side gate, and there was no one there; I went up to your hall, and there was no one there — this is your openness of trust. You are a chief minister of the state of Jin, and yet you eat fish and gruel — this is your frugality. My lord sent me to kill you; I cannot bear to kill you. Yet even so, I can never again face my lord." And he cut his own throat and died.

When Duke Ling heard of this he was enraged, and his wish to kill Zhao Dun grew still more urgent; but there was no one among his men he could send. Thereupon he hid armed men within the palace, and summoned Zhao Dun to a meal. Zhao Dun's chariot-guard, Qi Miming, a strongman of the state, boldly followed Zhao Dun in, and took his stand below the hall. When Zhao Dun had finished eating, Duke Ling said to him: "I have heard that your sword is indeed a fine blade; show it to me, that I may look at it." Zhao Dun rose and was about to draw out his sword, when Qi Miming called up from below: "Dun, once you have eaten your fill you should withdraw — why draw a sword in the ruler's presence?" Zhao Dun understood, and bounded down the steps and fled. Duke Ling had a dog from Zhou, called an ao; he called the ao and set it after him, and the ao too bounded down the steps in pursuit. Qi Miming met it and trampled it, breaking its jaw. Zhao Dun, looking back, said: "My lord's dog is no match for my own dog!"

But then the armed men within the palace rose up, drumming; yet one of them arose from among the armed ranks, took hold of Zhao Dun, and lifted him onto his own chariot. Zhao Dun, looking back, said: "How is it that I receive this from you?" He said: "I am the one you once fed and kept alive beneath the mulberry at Baosang." Zhao Dun said: "What is your name?" He said: "Among my lord's men, who is there to be singled out? You are already riding away — what need to ask my name?" Zhao Dun drove out, and none of the crowd detained him.

Zhao Chuan, taking advantage of the people's discontent, rose up and assassinated Duke Ling, and only then welcomed Zhao Dun back in, stood with him at court, and set up Duke Cheng, Heitun.

Annals. In summer, the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, there was a locust swarm.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 7 (宣公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, the Marquis of Wei sent Sun Liangfu to come and make covenant.

Annals. In summer, the Duke met with the Marquis of Qi and attacked Lai.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke arrived back from attacking Lai.

Annals. There was a great drought.

Annals. In winter, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, and the Earl of Cao at Heirang.

Year 8 (宣公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, the Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Gongzi Sui went to Qi; on reaching Huang he turned back.

Gongyang. Why does it say that on reaching Huang he turned back? Because he had fallen ill. Why mention that, being ill, he turned back? To criticize him. What is criticized in this? A grandee who goes out on his ruler's command should, even on hearing of a death at home, proceed slowly and not turn back.

Annals. On the day xinsi, rites were held at the Great Temple.

Annals. Zhong Sui died at Chui.

Gongyang. Who is Zhong Sui? He is Gongzi Sui. Why is he not styled "Gongzi"? To demote him. Why demote him? Because he assassinated Zichi, he is demoted. If so, why is he not demoted at the point of the assassination itself? In the record of that time he bore no blame for it; but with respect to Zichi, no [regnal] year is counted for him at all.

Annals. On the day renwu, yet the yi-sacrifice was held.

Annals. The Wan-dancers entered, and the Yue-dance was omitted.

Gongyang. What is the yi-sacrifice? It is the sacrifice held on the day following the main sacrifice. What is the Wan-dance? It is the shield-dance. What is the Yue? It is the flute-dance. Why does it say the Wan-dancers entered but the Yue was omitted? Because they dispensed with the dance that had sound, and set aside the one that had none, in order to preserve their true feeling — nothing more. What does "preserve their true feeling" mean? Knowing that it was not proper, and yet doing it. What does "yet" mean here? It signifies that in principle it could have been stopped.

Annals. On the day wuzi, the Duke's wife, of the Xiong clan, passed away.

Annals. The army of Jin, together with the White Di, attacked Qin.

Annals. Men of Chu extinguished Shuliao.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day jiazi, the sun was eclipsed — totally.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day jichou, our Junior Lady, Qingxiong, was buried. It rained, and they could not complete the burial. On the day gengyin, at midday, they were able to complete the burial.

Gongyang. Who is Qingxiong? She is Duke Xuan's mother. What does "and" mean here? It denotes difficulty. What does "then" mean here? It denotes difficulty. Why does it sometimes say "and," and sometimes say "then"? "Then" denotes still greater difficulty than "and."

Annals. The wall of Pingyang was built.

Annals. The army of Chu attacked Chen.

Year 9 (宣公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke went to Qi. The Duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. In summer, Zhongsun Mie went to the royal capital.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi attacked Lai.

Annals. In autumn, Lu took Genmou.

Gongyang. What is Genmou? It is a city of Zhulou. Why is it not linked to the name Zhulou? To avoid recording how often this happened.

Annals. In the eighth month, the Viscount of Teng died.

Annals. In the ninth month, the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, and the Earl of Cao met at Hu.

Annals. Xun Linfu of Jin led an army and attacked Chen.

Annals. On the day xinyou, the Marquis of Jin, Heitun, died at Hu.

Gongyang. What is Hu? It is a city of Jin. When a feudal lord dies within his own domain, the place is not recorded — why then is the place recorded here? He died while at a meeting of lords, and so the place is recorded; but since he had not yet left his own territory, the meeting itself is not mentioned.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day guiyou, the Marquis of Wei, Zheng, died.

Annals. Men of Song besieged Teng.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked Zheng; Xi Que of Jin led an army to rescue Zheng.

Annals. Chen killed its grandee Xie Ye.

Year 10 (宣公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, the Duke went to Qi. The Duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. The men of Qi returned to us the fields west of the Ji.

Gongyang. Qi had already taken them — why then does it say "to us"? To say "to us" means that they had not truly been severed from us. Why had they not been severed from us? Qi had already announced that it had taken them, but in fact they had not yet become Qi's.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingchen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. On the day jisi, the Marquis of Qi, Yuan, died.

Annals. The Cui clan of Qi fled to Wei.

Gongyang. Who are the Cui clan? They are grandees of Qi. Why are they styled "the Cui clan"? To demote them. Why demote them? To criticize hereditary ministers — hereditary ministership is contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. The Duke went to Qi. In the fifth month, the Duke arrived back from Qi.

Annals. On the day guisi, Xia Zhengshu of Chen assassinated his ruler Pingguo.

Annals. In the sixth month, the army of Song attacked Teng.

Annals. Gongsun Guifu went to Qi, for the burial of Duke Hui of Qi.

Annals. Men of Jin, men of Song, men of Wei, and men of Cao attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, the Heavenly King sent Wang Jizi to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Who is Wang Jizi? He is a grandee of the Son of Heaven. Why is he styled "Wang Jizi"? To honor him. In what way is he honored? He is a full brother of the king, born of the same mother.

Annals. Gongsun Guifu led an army, attacked Zhulou, and took Lei.

Annals. There was a great flood.

Annals. Jisun Xingfu went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, Gongsun Guifu went to Qi.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi sent Guo Zuo to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. There was famine.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? Because of its gravity, it is recorded.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked Zheng.

Year 11 (宣公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the king's first month —

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Chen, and the Earl of Zheng made covenant at Chenling.

Annals. Gongsun Guifu met with men of Qi and attacked Ju.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Jin met with the Di at Zanhan.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, men of Chu killed Xia Zhengshu of Chen.

Gongyang. This was in fact the Viscount of Chu — why is he styled "men"? To demote him. Why demote him? Because the text does not sanction the punishing of a wrong by an outsider. Not sanctioning punishment by an outsider means: because he carried out this punishment in another state, the text withholds its sanction; even punishment carried out within one's own state is, in this respect, likewise not sanctioned. Why does it not sanction it? In substance it sanctions it, but in the wording it does not. Why does the wording withhold sanction? By the principle governing the feudal lords, none may take such punishment wholly into his own hands. If, by that principle, none may take it wholly into his own hands, then why does it sanction it in substance? Because above there was no Son of Heaven, and below there was no regional chief; and when, among the feudal lords of the realm, there was one who behaved without the Way — a subject assassinating his ruler, a son murdering his father — then if another lord had the strength to punish it, it was permissible for him to do so.

Annals. On the day dinghai, the Viscount of Chu entered Chen, and restored Gongsun Ning and Yi Xingfu to Chen.

Gongyang. These were both grandees — why does it speak of "restoring" them? It restored the partisans of the former ruler.

Year 12 (宣公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, Duke Ling of Chen was buried.

Gongyang. The one who punished this culprit was not a subject or son of Chen — why then does the text record the burial as proper? It is the wording of a noble-minded generosity. Chu had already punished the culprit; even had Chen's own subjects and sons wished to punish him, there was nothing left for them to punish.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu besieged Zheng.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day yimao, Xun Linfu of Jin led an army and fought with the Viscount of Chu at Bi; the army of Jin was utterly defeated.

Gongyang. A grandee is not the equal of a ruler — why then, here, is Xun Linfu styled by his name and clan, as though the equal of the Viscount of Chu? Because the text does not side with Jin, but sides with the Viscount of Chu as acting in accordance with propriety. Why does it not side with Jin, but side with the Viscount of Chu as acting in accordance with propriety?

King Zhuang (莊王) attacked Zheng; he was victorious at the Huang Gate, and pressed on to the great thoroughfare. The Earl of Zheng, baring his upper body, holding a rush pennant in his left hand and a bell-knife in his right, went out to meet King Zhuang, saying: "This unworthy one, a lowly minister of the borderlands, brought down Heaven's calamity upon himself, and so caused Your Majesty to come in full might, condescending to reach this humble city. If Your Majesty would take pity on this ruined man, and grant him a barren patch of land, that he might lead a few aged elders and settle there in peace — I ask only to await Your Majesty's command." King Zhuang said: "It was your unworthy ministers who exchanged provocations and brought on this affair, and so caused me to be able to see Your Lordship's noble countenance, and to come, in this small way, to this place." King Zhuang, with his own hand, took hold of Zheng's pennant, and, waving his officers to left and right, ordered the army to withdraw and encamp seven li away.

His general Zi Zhong remonstrated, saying: "Southern Ying and Zheng lie several thousand li apart; several of our grandees have died, and several hundred of our servants and grooms have died. Now that my lord has conquered Zheng and yet does not take possession of it, is this not to squander the strength given by the people and the ministers?" King Zhuang said: "In ancient times, rulers did not march out to the four quarters so long as their wine-vessels were not yet worn through and their leather armor not yet moth-eaten. Therefore the noble man is generous in ritual propriety and sparing in the pursuit of profit; he seeks the submission of the people, not their land. Zheng has announced its submission — not to pardon it would be inauspicious. Were I to lead the people by what is inauspicious, calamity would reach my own person — how could such a day ever come?"

When this was done, the army of Jin that had come to relieve Zheng arrived, saying: "We ask to give battle." King Zhuang consented. His general Zi Zhong remonstrated, saying: "Jin is a great state; Your Majesty's army has long been in the field and is worn out — I beg my lord not to consent." King Zhuang said: "If I awe the weak but avoid the strong, then I shall have no way to make myself stand before the whole realm!" He ordered the army to turn back and meet the invaders from Jin. King Zhuang sounded the drums, and the army of Jin was utterly routed; among the fleeing host of Jin, so many clutched at the boats that the severed fingers left in the boats could be gathered up by the handful. King Zhuang said: "Alas! Our two rulers are not on good terms with one another — what crime have the common people committed?" And he ordered the army to withdraw and let the invaders from Jin go free.

Annals. In autumn, the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day wuyin, the Viscount of Chu extinguished Xiao.

Annals. Men of Jin, men of Song, men of Wei, and men of Cao made covenant together at Qingqiu.

Annals. The army of Song attacked Chen.

Annals. Men of Wei went to relieve Chen.

Year 13 (宣公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the army of Qi attacked Wei.

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Chu attacked Song.

Annals. In autumn, there was a locust swarm.

Annals. In winter, Jin killed its grandee Xian Hu.

Year 14 (宣公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, Wei killed its grandee Kong Da.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day renshen, the Earl of Cao, Shou, died.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, the Viscount of Chu besieged Song.

Annals. Duke Wen of Cao was buried.

Annals. In winter, Gongsun Guifu met with the Marquis of Qi at Gu.

Year 15 (宣公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, Gongsun Guifu met with the Viscount of Chu at Song.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the men of Song and the men of Chu made peace.

Gongyang. Peace made between outside states is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? Because the text magnifies that they made peace on their own initiative. Why does it magnify their making peace on their own initiative?

King Zhuang besieged Song; his army had rations for only seven days. If, when these were exhausted, he had still not won, he would withdraw and go home. Thereupon he sent his marshal Zi Fan to climb the siege-ramp and spy on the walls of Song; Hua Yuan (華元) of Song likewise climbed his own ramp and came out to meet him. The Marshal Zi Fan said: "How fares your state?" Hua Yuan said: "We are utterly worn out." He said: "In what way?" [Hua Yuan] said: "We exchange children with one another and eat them; we break apart bones and burn them for cooking." The Marshal Zi Fan said: "Alas! How very worn out! And yet, I have heard it said: when besieged, one muzzles one's horses while still feeding them, and lets the fattest be shown to visitors — why then do you tell me the plain truth?" Hua Yuan said: "I have heard it said: the noble man, seeing another in distress, pities him; the small man, seeing another in distress, rejoices at it. I see that you are a noble man, and so I have told you the truth." The Marshal Zi Fan said: "Very well — take heart! Our own army, too, has rations for only seven days; if these are exhausted and we have not yet won, we too shall withdraw and go home." He bowed and took his leave, and returned to report to King Zhuang.

King Zhuang said: "How is it there?" The Marshal Zi Fan said: "They are utterly worn out!" He said: "In what way?" [Zi Fan] said: "They exchange children with one another and eat them; they break apart bones and burn them for cooking." King Zhuang said: "Alas! How very worn out! And yet, I shall now take this city, and only then go home." The Marshal Zi Fan said: "That cannot be. Your servant has already told them that our own army has rations for only seven days." King Zhuang, angered, said: "I sent you to go and observe them — why did you tell them of our own state?" The Marshal Zi Fan said: "Even so small a state as Song still has a minister who will not deceive another — how could Chu be without one? That is why I told them." King Zhuang said: "Very well. Let it rest there. And yet, I shall still take this city before I go home." The Marshal Zi Fan said: "If that is so, then I beg my lord to remain here; your servant asks leave to go home." King Zhuang said: "If you leave me and go home, with whom shall I remain here? I too shall follow you and go home." He led the army away and departed. This is why the noble man magnifies their making peace on their own initiative.

These were both grandees — why does it style them "men"? To demote them. Why demote them? Because the peace was made by those below.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day guimao, the army of Jin extinguished the Lu clan of the Red Di, and took the Viscount of Lu, Ying'er, back with them.

Gongyang. Why is Lu styled "viscount"? Because the Viscount of Lu did good — in this he himself was sufficient to bring about his own ruin. And yet the noble man could not but record it. He had separated from the Yi and Di, yet had not been able to unite with the Central States; the army of Jin attacked him, the Central States did not come to his rescue, and the Di people did not support him — and so he was ruined.

Annals. Men of Qin attacked Jin.

Annals. Wang Zhazi killed Shao Bo and Mao Bo.

Gongyang. Who is Wang Zhazi? "Wang Zhazi" is a title for the eldest son of a consort of lesser rank, not the principal wife.

Annals. In autumn, there was a locust swarm.

Annals. Zhongsun Mie met with Gao Gu of Qi at Moulou.

Annals. For the first time, Lu taxed by the mu.

Gongyang. What does "for the first time" mean? It means "began." What does "taxed by the mu" mean? It means measuring the fields by the mu and taxing accordingly. Why is it recorded that, for the first time, Lu taxed by the mu? To criticize. What is criticized? The beginning of taxing by measured fields is criticized. Why criticize the beginning of taxing by measured fields? In ancient times one taxed a tenth, through the mutual-aid system. Why did the ancients tax a tenth, through mutual aid? A tenth is the correct mean for all under Heaven. More than a tenth, and one is a great or lesser tyrant, a Jie; less than a tenth, and one is a great or lesser Mo barbarian. A tenth is the correct mean for all under Heaven; when the tenth rate is practiced, songs of praise arise.

Annals. In winter, locust larvae appeared.

Gongyang. There has never before been mention of locust larvae appearing — why then does it mention it here? The appearance of locust larvae is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To take relief in it. What does "take relief in it" mean? It is as if to say "we accept it," nothing more. What does "we accept it" mean? Those above had altered the ancient ways and changed the constant norms, and in response to this a disaster from Heaven occurred; it was surely fitting that, faced with this, a change should be made.

Annals. There was famine.

Year 16 (宣公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, men of Jin extinguished the Jiashi and Liuxu of the Red Di.

Annals. In summer, there was a fire at the Xuan Pavilion of Chengzhou.

Gongyang. What is Chengzhou? It is the Eastern Zhou capital. What is the Xuan Pavilion? It is the pavilion of the Xuan Palace. Why does it mention the fire at the Xuan Pavilion of Chengzhou? Because the ritual instruments were stored there. Why is the fire at the Xuan Pavilion of Chengzhou recorded? To record the disaster. Disasters of outside states are not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? Because this Zhou is treated as the New Zhou.

Annals. In autumn, Bo Ji of Tan came back to Lu.

Annals. In winter, there was a great abundant harvest.

Year 17 (宣公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day gengzi, the Baron of Xu, Xiwo, died.

Annals. On the day dingwei, the Marquis of Cai, Shen, died.

Annals. In summer, Duke Zhao of Xu was buried.

Annals. Duke Wen of Cai was buried.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day guimao, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. On the day jiwei, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, and the Viscount of Zhulou, and made covenant together at Duandao. In autumn, the Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day renwu, the Duke's younger brother Shu Xi died.

Year 18 (宣公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin and the heir apparent of Wei, Zang, attacked Qi.

Annals. The Duke attacked Qi (杞).

Annals. In summer, the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, men of Zhulou brutally killed the Viscount of Zeng at Zeng.

Gongyang. What does "brutally killed the Viscount of Zeng at Zeng" mean? It means they maimed and injured him before killing him.

Annals. On the day jiaxu, the Viscount of Chu, Lü, died.

Gongyang. Why is his burial not recorded? The burials of the rulers of Wu and Chu are not recorded, to avoid acknowledging their assumed title.

Annals. Gongsun Guifu went to Jin.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day renxu, the Duke passed away in the state bedchamber.

Annals. Guifu, returning from Jin, reached Cheng, and then fled to Qi.

Gongyang. What does "returning" mean here? It is a term of approval. Why approve of him? Guifu had been sent on a mission to Jin; returning from Jin, he reached Cheng, and heard that his ruler had passed away and that his household had been driven out. He cleared a space and set up a curtained shrine, wailed for his ruler and completed the mourning stamping-rite, reported back the results of his mission to his deputy, and only then fled onward to Qi.

Duke Cheng (成公)

Year 1 (成公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke ascended the throne.

Annals. In the second month, on the day xinyou, our ruler, Duke Xuan, was buried.

Annals. There was no ice.

Annals. In the third month, Lu instituted the qiu-levy.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? The beginning of conscripting by the qiu-unit is criticized.

Annals. In summer, Zangsun Xu and the Marquis of Jin made covenant at Chiji.

Annals. In autumn, the royal army was utterly defeated at Maorong.

Gongyang. Who defeated it? Presumably Jin defeated it; some say Maorong defeated it. If so, why does it not say that Jin defeated it? A true king has no enemies — none dares to stand against him.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 2 (成公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi attacked our northern borderlands.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingxu, Sun Liangfu of Wei led an army and fought with the army of Qi at Xinzhu; the army of Wei was utterly defeated.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day guiyou, Jisun Xingfu, Zangsun Xu, Shusun Qiaoru, and Gongsun Yingqi led an army, met with Xi Ke of Jin, Sun Liangfu of Wei, and Gongzi Shou of Cao, and fought with the Marquis of Qi at An; the army of Qi was utterly defeated.

Gongyang. Cao has no grandees in the Chunqiu's usage — why then is Gongzi Shou recorded here? Out of concern for the gravity of the crisis at home.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Marquis of Qi sent Guo Zuo to go to the army. On the day jiyou, covenant was made with Guo Zuo at Yuanlou.

Gongyang. A ruler does not conduct diplomacy through a grandee — why then here is diplomacy conducted through a grandee? Because the Marquis of Qi narrowly escaped capture. How did he narrowly escape capture?

As the allied army closed around the Marquis of Qi, Xi Ke of Jin cast down his halberd, drew back a few steps, and bowed twice, his head to the ground, before the horse. Feng Choufu (逢醜父) was the right-hand guard of Duke Qing's chariot. His face and features resembled Duke Qing's, and his clothing resembled Duke Qing's; he took Duke Qing's place standing on the left, the ruler's own position. He sent Duke Qing to fetch a drink; Duke Qing, holding the drink, returned, and Feng Choufu said: "Go back and fetch a clearer one." By this means Duke Qing made his escape and did not return. Feng Choufu said: "By the grace of the spirits of the altars of soil and grain, my lord has now escaped." Xi Ke said: "One who deceives the Three Armies — what is the penalty for that?" Someone said: "The penalty is to be cut down." And so they cut Feng Choufu down.

On the day jiyou, covenant was made with Guo Zuo of Qi — why was it not made at the army camp, but at Yuanlou? Before this, Xi Ke of Jin and Zangsun Xu had, at the same time, gone on diplomatic visits to Qi. Xiaotong Zhizi was the mother of the ruler of Qi; she leapt up onto a railing to peer at the visitors, and saw that one was lame and one was one-eyed. So she had a lame man sent to receive the lame visitor, and a one-eyed man sent to receive the one-eyed visitor. The two grandees, on going out, stood together leaning at the gate and talked, and only after much time had passed did they part. The people of Qi all said: "The rise of calamity will surely begin from this!" The two grandees returned home, and together led armies to fight the battle of An; the army of Qi was utterly defeated.

The Marquis of Qi sent Guo Zuo to the army. Xi Ke said: "Give us the ceremonial vessel of the Marquis of Ji, return the lands taken from Lu and Wei, make your plowmen turn their furrows eastward, and moreover give Xiaotong Zhizi as a hostage — then I shall let your state be." Guo Zuo said: "As to giving the vessel of the Marquis of Ji — I agree. As to returning the lands taken from Lu and Wei — I agree. As to making our plowmen turn their furrows eastward — this would be to treat the soil of Qi as your own. As for Xiaotong Zhizi, she is the mother of the ruler of Qi; the mother of the ruler of Qi is as the mother of the ruler of Jin — this cannot be done. I ask instead for battle: if we fight once and do not prevail, let us fight a second time; if a second time and do not prevail, a third; if a third time and do not prevail, then the whole state of Qi shall be entirely yours — why must you have Xiaotong Zhizi as hostage?" He bowed and took his leave. Xi Ke deferred to the envoys of Lu and Wei, and had them state the matter on Guo Zuo's behalf and plead for him; only then did he consent. And so, at Yuanlou, he made covenant with him.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day renwu, the Duke of Song, Bao, died.

Annals. On the day gengyin, the Marquis of Wei, Su, died.

Annals. Lu took the fields of Wenyang.

Gongyang. What are the fields of Wenyang? They were the price paid over the battle of An.

Annals. In winter, the army of Chu and the army of Zheng raided Wei.

Annals. In the eleventh month, the Duke met with Gongzi Yingqi of Chu at Shu. On the day bingshen, the Duke, together with men of Chu, men of Qin, men of Song, men of Chen, men of Wei, men of Zheng, men of Qi, men of Cao, men of Zhulou, men of Xue, and men of Zeng, made covenant at Shu.

Gongyang. This was Gongzi Yingqi of Chu — why is he styled "men"? He incurred a single demotion, nothing more.

Year 3 (成公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Cao, and attacked Zheng.

Annals. On the day xinhai, Duke Mu of Wei was buried.

Annals. In the second month, the Duke arrived back from attacking Zheng.

Annals. On the day jiazi, there was a fire at the New Temple; for three days there was wailing.

Gongyang. What is the New Temple? It is the temple of Duke Xuan. If it is Xuan's temple, why call it the "New" Temple? Because they could not bear to name it directly. What does "for three days there was wailing" mean? When fire strikes an ancestral temple, wailing for three days is the proper rite. Why is the fire at the New Temple recorded? To record the disaster.

Annals. On the day yihai, Duke Wen of Song was buried.

Annals. In summer, the Duke went to Jin.

Annals. Gongzi Quji of Zheng led an army and attacked Xu.

Annals. The Duke arrived back from Jin.

Annals. In autumn, Shusun Qiaoru led an army and besieged Ji.

Gongyang. What is Ji? It is a city of Wenyang that would not submit. Why does it say he besieged it? Because it would not obey.

Annals. There was a great rain-sacrifice.

Annals. Xi Ke of Jin and Sun Liangfu of Wei attacked the Qiangjiuru.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, the Marquis of Jin sent Xun Geng to come on a diplomatic visit. The Marquis of Wei sent Sun Liangfu to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. On the day bingwu, covenant was made with Xun Geng. On the day dingwei, covenant was made with Sun Liangfu.

Gongyang. These were diplomatic visits — why does it speak of covenant? When a visit is spoken of together with covenant, it means the renewal of an old covenant.

Annals. Zheng attacked Xu.

Year 4 (成公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, the Duke of Song sent Hua Yuan to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In the third month, on the day renshen, the Earl of Zheng, Jian, died.

Annals. The Earl of Qi (杞) came to court.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day jiayin, Zangsun Xu died.

Annals. The Duke went to Jin.

Annals. Duke Xiang of Zheng was buried.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke arrived back from Jin.

Annals. In winter, the wall of Yun was built.

Annals. The Earl of Zheng attacked Xu.

Year 5 (成公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Shu Ji of Qi (杞) came back to Lu.

Annals. Zhongsun Mie went to Song.

Annals. In summer, Shusun Qiaoru met with Xun Xiu of Jin at Gu.

Annals. Mount Liang collapsed.

Gongyang. What is Mount Liang? It is a mountain on the Yellow River. Why is the collapse of Mount Liang recorded? To record a portent. In what way was it a portent? In its magnitude. In what way was it great? When Mount Liang collapsed, it dammed the River, which did not flow for three days. Portents of outside states are not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To record a portent on behalf of the whole realm.

Annals. In autumn, there was a great flood.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day jiyou, the Heavenly King passed away.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jichou, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Zhulou, and the Earl of Qi (杞), and made covenant together at Chonglao.

Year 6 (成公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. On the day xinsi, the temple of Duke Wu was established.

Gongyang. What is the Wu temple? It is the temple of Duke Wu. What does "established" mean here? It means it ought not to have been established. To establish the Wu temple was contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. Lu took Zhuan.

Gongyang. What is Zhuan? It is a city of Zhulou. Why is it not linked to the name Zhulou? To avoid recording how often this happened.

Annals. Sun Liangfu of Wei led an army and raided Song.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. Gongsun Yingqi went to Jin.

Annals. On the day renshen, the Earl of Zheng, Fei, died.

Annals. In autumn, Zhongsun Mie and Shusun Qiaoru led an army and raided Song.

Annals. Gongzi Yingqi of Chu led an army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, Jisun Xingfu went to Jin.

Annals. Luan Shu of Jin led an army and raided Zheng.

Year 7 (成公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, in the king's first month, a field-mouse gnawed the horn of the ox for the suburban sacrifice. A new ox was divined for; the field-mouse again gnawed its horn, and so the ox was excused.

Annals. Wu attacked Tan.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the Earl of Cao came to court.

Annals. The suburban sacrifice was not held, yet the Three Vistas were still offered.

Annals. In autumn, Gongzi Yingqi of Chu led an army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. The Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, and the Earl of Qi (杞), to relieve Zheng.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day wuchen, they made covenant together at Maling.

Annals. The Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. Wu entered Zhoulai.

Annals. In winter, there was a great rain-sacrifice.

Annals. Sun Linfu of Wei fled to Jin.

Year 8 (成公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin sent Han Chuan to come and speak concerning the fields of Wenyang, that they be returned to Qi.

Gongyang. What does "came to speak" mean here? It is a phrase framed from our own side — it means Jin coerced us and forced us to return them. Why did they make us return them? At the battle of An, the army of Qi was utterly defeated; when the Marquis of Qi returned home, he mourned the dead and visited the sick, and for seven years drank no wine and ate no meat. When the Marquis of Jin heard of this, he said: "Alas! How can I let another ruler go seven years without wine or meat! I ask that all the lands taken and invaded be returned."

Annals. Luan Shu of Jin led an army and raided Cai.

Annals. Gongsun Yingqi went to Ju.

Annals. The Duke of Song sent Hua Yuan to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, the Duke of Song sent Gongsun Shou to come and present the betrothal gifts.

Gongyang. The presenting of betrothal gifts is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To take note of Bo Ji.

Annals. Jin killed its grandees Zhao Tong and Zhao Kuo.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Son of Heaven sent Shao Bo to come and confer the mandate upon the Duke.

Gongyang. Why is he styled "the Son of Heaven"? In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the term used is the correct, proper one; for all the rest thereafter, the terms are used interchangeably.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day guimao, Shu Ji of Qi (杞) died.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Shi Xie to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. Shusun Qiaoru met with Shi Xie of Jin, men of Qi, and men of Zhulou, and attacked Tan.

Annals. Men of Wei came as escort-brides.

Gongyang. The sending of escort-brides is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To take note of Bo Ji.

Year 9 (成公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Earl of Qi (杞) came to receive Shu Ji's coffin, to take it back.

Gongyang. Why did the Earl of Qi come to receive Shu Ji's coffin and take it back? This is a phrase framed from our own side — in fact he was coerced and forced to take it back.

Annals. The Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, and the Earl of Qi (杞), and made covenant together at Pu. The Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. In the second month, Bo Ji was married into Song.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Xingfu went to Song to deliver the bride.

Gongyang. There has never before been mention of "delivering the bride" — why then does it mention it here? To take note of Bo Ji.

Annals. Men of Jin came as escort-brides.

Gongyang. The sending of escort-brides is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To take note of Bo Ji.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day bingzi, the Marquis of Qi, Wuye, died.

Annals. Men of Jin seized the Earl of Zheng.

Annals. Luan Shu of Jin led an army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, Duke Qing of Qi was buried.

Annals. Gongzi Yingqi of Chu led an army and attacked Ju; on the day gengshen, Ju was routed.

Annals. Men of Chu entered Yun.

Annals. Men of Qin and the White Di attacked Jin.

Annals. Men of Zheng besieged Xu.

Annals. The wall of Zhongcheng was built.

Year 10 (成公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Wei's younger brother Heibei led an army and raided Zheng.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, they divined five times for the suburban sacrifice; the omens did not comply, and so the suburban sacrifice was not held.

Gongyang. Why does it say "and so the suburban sacrifice was not held"? Because the sacrificial animal had not been excused from service, and so it says "and so the suburban sacrifice was not held."

Annals. In the fifth month, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, and the Earl of Cao, and attacked Zheng.

Annals. Men of Qi came as escort-brides.

Gongyang. The sending of escort-brides is not ordinarily recorded — why then is it recorded here? To take note of Bo Ji. For three states to send escort-brides is contrary to ritual propriety — why then does the text speak of all three in the wording used to take note of Bo Ji? Because, for a woman, a great multitude of escorts is accounted splendor.

Annals. On the day bingwu, the Marquis of Jin, Nou, died.

Annals. In autumn, the seventh month.

Annals. The Duke went to Jin.

Year 11 (成公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the king's third month, the Duke arrived back from Jin.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Xi Zhou to come on a diplomatic visit. On the day jichou, covenant was made with Xi Zhou.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Xingfu went to Jin.

Annals. In autumn, Shusun Qiaoru went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 12 (成公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, the Duke of Zhou fled to Jin.

Gongyang. Who is the Duke of Zhou? He is one of the Three Dukes of the Son of Heaven. A true king has no "outside" — why then does it speak of his "going forth"? Because he went forth from his own private domain.

Annals. In summer, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin and the Marquis of Wei at Shaze.

Annals. In autumn, men of Jin defeated the Di at Jiaogang.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 13 (成公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin sent Xi Qi to come and request troops.

Annals. In the third month, the Duke went to the royal capital.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the Duke, from the royal capital, thereupon met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, men of Zhulou, and men of Teng, and attacked Qin.

Gongyang. Why does it say "from the royal capital"? Because the Duke made a special detour in his journey. What does it mean that the Duke made a special detour? He dared not simply pass by the Son of Heaven without paying court.

Annals. The Earl of Cao, Lu, died while on campaign.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Duke arrived back from attacking Qin.

Annals. In winter, Duke Xuan of Cao was buried.

Year 14 (成公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Viscount of Ju, Zhu, died.

Annals. In summer, Sun Linfu of Wei returned from Jin to Wei.

Annals. In autumn, Shusun Qiaoru went to Qi to receive a bride.

Annals. Gongzi Xi of Zheng led an army and attacked Xu.

Annals. In the ninth month, Qiaoru, together with the Duke's wife, the lady Jiang, arrived back from Qi.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day gengyin, the Marquis of Wei, Zang, died.

Annals. The Earl of Qin died.

Year 15 (成公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, in the king's second month, Duke Ding of Wei was buried.

Annals. In the third month, on the day yisi, Zhong Yingqi died.

Annals. On the day guichou, the Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the heir apparent of Song, Cheng, Guo Zuo of Qi, and men of Zhulou, and made covenant together at Qi.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin seized the Earl of Cao and took him back to the royal capital.

Annals. The Duke arrived back from the meeting.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, the Duke of Song, Gu, died.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day gengchen, Duke Gong of Song was buried.

Annals. Hua Yuan of Song fled to Jin.

Annals. Hua Yuan of Song returned from Jin to Song.

Annals. Song killed its grandee Shan.

Annals. Yu Shi of Song fled to Chu.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, Shusun Qiaoru met with Shi Xie of Jin, Gao Wujiu of Qi, Hua Yuan of Song, Sun Linfu of Wei, Gongzi Qiu of Zheng, and men of Zhulou, and separately met with Wu at Zhongli.

Gongyang. Why does it set the meeting with Wu apart? Because Wu is treated as "outside." Why is it treated as outside? The Chunqiu treats its own state as "inner" and the various Xia states as "outer"; and elsewhere treats the various Xia states as "inner" and the Yi and Di as "outer." A true king desires to unify the whole realm as one — why then does the text speak in terms of "outer" and "inner"? To say that unification must begin from what is near at hand.

Annals. Xu moved its capital to She.

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, it rained and ice formed on the trees.

Gongyang. What does "it rained and ice formed on the trees" mean? It rained, and the rain, freezing, formed ice upon the trees. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day xinwei, the Viscount of Teng died.

Annals. Gongzi Xi of Zheng led an army and raided Song.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day bingyin, the first day of the month, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Luan Yan to come and request troops.

Annals. On the day jiawu, the last day of the month —

Gongyang. What does "the last day of the month" mean, stated bare like this? It denotes darkness. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin, together with the Viscount of Chu and the Earl of Zheng, fought at Yanling; the Viscount of Chu and the army of Zheng were utterly defeated.

Gongyang. The defeated side is ordinarily styled by its army — why then is Chu not styled by its army? Because the king of Chu was wounded. What does "the king was wounded" mean? He was wounded by an arrow. If so, then why does it not say Chu's "army was utterly defeated"? Because that is simply left unsaid.

Annals. Chu killed its grandee Gongzi Ce.

Annals. In autumn, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Marquis of Wei, Hua Yuan of Song, and the men of Zhulou, at Shasui.

Gongyang. The duke was not received in audience at this meeting, and yet the record states that "the duke arrived from the meeting." What is meant by "the duke was not received"? It means the duke was not received in audience. When the duke is not received in audience, [it is because] a grandee has been seized [in his place]. Why then does the text word his return as "arrived from the meeting" [without remark]? Because there is nothing shameful in it. Why is there nothing shameful in it? Because the duke was still young.

Annals. The duke met with Viscount Yin, the Marquis of Jin, Guo Zuo of Qi, and the men of Zhulou, and attacked Zheng.

Annals. The Earl of Cao arrived home from the royal capital.

Gongyang. When one who was seized and now returns home is ordinarily named in the record, why is the Earl of Cao not named? And why does the text not say he "returned again to Cao"? Because it was easy. How was it easy? Because Gongzi Xishi was within the state, holding it steady. If Gongzi Xishi was within the state, then how does that make it easy? Gongzi Xishi was a benevolent man. Within Cao he pacified the state and awaited his lord's return; without, he worked things out at the royal capital and secured his release. Why does the text say he came "from the royal capital"? To say how very easy it all was — apart from this, there would have been no difficulty at all!

Annals. In the ninth month, men of Jin seized Jisun Hangfu, and lodged him at Zhaoqiu.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day yihai, Shusun Qiaoru fled into exile to Qi.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day yichou, Jisun Hangfu and Xi Zhou of Jin covenanted at Hu.

Annals. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. On the day yiyou, Gongzi Yan was stabbed to death.

Year 17 (成公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, Beigong Jie of Wei led an army and raided Zheng.

Annals. In summer, the duke met with Viscount Yin, Viscount Shan, the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, and the men of Zhulou, and attacked Zheng. In the sixth month, on the day yiyou, they covenanted together at Keling.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Gao Wujiu of Qi fled into exile to Ju.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day xinchou, the suburban sacrifice was performed.

Gongyang. What is meant by "performed" (用)? "Performed" is the wording used when something was not proper to perform. The ninth month is not the time proper for the suburban sacrifice. When, then, is the suburban sacrifice properly performed? The suburban sacrifice is properly performed on the first xin day of the first month. Some say: only once it was in fact performed does the text then call it the suburban sacrifice at all.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Xun Ying to come and beg for troops.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with Viscount Shan, the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, men of Qi, and the men of Zhulou, and attacked Zheng. In the eleventh month, the duke arrived from attacking Zheng.

Annals. On the day renshen, Gongsun Yingqi died at Lizhen.

Gongyang. This was not truly the month and day of his death — why then does the text record his death under this month and day? Because a grandee's death is properly recorded only after the ruler's command confirming it has been received. Why must a grandee's death await the ruler's command before it is recorded? Earlier than this, Yingqi had fled to Jin. The duke had met with the Marquis of Jin, who was about to seize the duke. Yingqi pleaded on the duke's behalf, and the duke, in gratitude, permitted him to return and resume the rank of grandee. He went home, and on reaching Lizhen he died. Without the ruler's command, the text dares not record a grandee's death; only when the duke arrived home and said, "I did indeed permit him to return and be a grandee," was his death then recorded.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the new moon day dingsi, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou, Jueqie, died.

Annals. Jin put to death its grandees Xi Qi, Xi Zhou, and Xi Zhi.

Annals. Men of Chu extinguished Shuyong.

Year 18 (成公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Jin put to death its grandee Xu Tong. On the day gengshen, Jin assassinated its ruler, Zhoupu.

Annals. Qi put to death its grandee Guo Zuo.

Annals. The duke went to Jin.

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Chu and the Earl of Zheng attacked Song.

Annals. Yu Shi of Song entered again into Pengcheng.

Annals. The duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Shi Gai to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In autumn, the Earl of Qi (杞) came to court. In the eighth month, the Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. [We] built the Deer Park.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? Lu already had a park, and yet built another.

Annals. On the day jichou, the duke passed away in the Chief Chamber.

Annals. In winter, men of Chu and men of Zheng raided Song.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Shi Peng to come and beg for troops.

Annals. In the twelfth month, Zhongsun Mie met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Viscount of Zhulou, and Cui Zhu of Qi, and they covenanted together at Xuting.

Annals. On the day dingwei, we buried our lord, Duke Cheng.

Duke Xiang (襄公)

Year 1 (襄公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke assumed his position.

Annals. Zhongsun Mie met with Luan Yan of Jin, Hua Yuan of Song, Ning Zhi of Wei, and men of Cao, Ju, Zhulou, Teng, and Xue, and besieged Pengcheng in Song.

Gongyang. Why did Hua Yuan of Song join the other lords in besieging Pengcheng, itself a city of Song? It was carried out as a punitive act on Song's behalf. How was it a punitive act on Song's behalf? Yu Shi had fled to Chu; Chu, on his behalf, attacked Song, took Pengcheng, and enfeoffed Yu Shi with it. What was Yu Shi's crime? His entering into this place was itself his crime. Chu had already taken it — why then does the text attach it to Song, as though it were still Song's? Because the text does not sanction the lords taking sole charge of enfeoffment.

Annals. In summer, Han Qu of Jin led an army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. Zhongsun Mie met with Cui Zhu of Qi and men of Cao, Zhulou, and Qi (杞), and halted at He.

Annals. In autumn, Prince Renfu of Chu led an army and raided Song.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day xinyou, the Heavenly King died.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Wei sent Gongsun Piao to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Xun Ying to come on a diplomatic visit.

Year 2 (襄公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's first month, King Jian was buried.

Annals. The army of Zheng attacked Song.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day gengyin, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, passed away.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day gengchen, Gun, Earl of Zheng, died.

Annals. The armies of Jin and Song, and Ning Zhi of Wei, raided Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Zhongsun Mie met with Xun Ying of Jin, Hua Yuan of Song, Sun Linfu of Wei, and men of Cao and Zhulou, at Qi.

Annals. On the day jichou, we buried our lesser lady, Qi Jiang.

Gongyang. Who was Qi Jiang? Between Qi Jiang and Miu Jiang, it is not known for certain whether she was Duke Xuan's wife, or Duke Cheng's wife.

Annals. Shusun Bao went to Song.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Mie met with Xun Ying of Jin, Cui Zhu of Qi, Hua Yuan of Song, Sun Linfu of Wei, and men of Cao, Zhulou, Teng, Xue, and Xiaozhulou, at Qi, and thereupon walled Hulao.

Gongyang. What is Hulao? A settlement of Zheng. Why does the text speak of "walling" it? Because in fact they took it. If they took it, why does the text not say they "took" it? Because it avoids naming it so, for the Central States' sake. Why avoid naming it for the Central States' sake? To avoid naming an attack made upon a state in mourning. Why does it not attach the place to Zheng? Because it avoids naming it, for the Central States' sake. A grandee properly has no independent authority to act "thereupon," on his own initiative — why then does the text say "thereupon" here? To lay the blame upon the grandee.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Prince Shen.

Year 3 (襄公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, Prince Yingqi of Chu led an army and attacked Wu.

Annals. The duke went to Jin.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day renxu, the duke and the Marquis of Jin covenanted at Changchu.

Annals. The duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. In the sixth month, the duke met with Viscount Shan, the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, and Guang, heir apparent of Qi; on the day jiwei, they covenanted together at Jize. The Marquis of Chen sent Yuan Qiao to go to the meeting.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "went to the meeting"? Because he arrived after the meeting had already begun.

Annals. On the day wuyin, Shusun Bao, together with the grandees of the other lords, and separately with Yuan Qiao of Chen, covenanted.

Gongyang. Why does the text single out "and" Yuan Qiao of Chen, as a separate party? Because Shusun Bao covenanted with Yuan Qiao separately, after the others.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. In winter, Xun Ying of Jin led an army and attacked Xu.

Year 4 (襄公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the third month, on the day jiyou, Wu, Marquis of Chen, died.

Annals. In summer, Shusun Bao went to Jin.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day wuzi, the duke's wife, Lady Yi, passed away.

Annals. Duke Cheng of Chen was buried.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day xinhai, we buried our lesser lady, Ding Yi.

Gongyang. Ding Yi was Duke Xiang's mother.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin.

Annals. Men of Chen besieged Dun.

Year 5 (襄公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, the duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. In summer, the Earl of Zheng sent Gongzi Fa to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. Shusun Bao and Wu, heir apparent of Zeng, went to Jin.

Gongyang. When outside states go to one another, it is not ordinarily recorded — why then is this recorded? Because Shusun Bao led him and went together with him. Why did Shusun Bao lead him and go together with him? Because Wu was, it seems, his sister's son, going into exile. Ju was about to extinguish Zeng, and so together they went, in peril, to Jin. If Ju was about to extinguish Zeng, why then did they go together, in peril, to Jin? To secure a succession through Ju. How did they seek to secure a succession through Ju? Among the women of Ju there was one who had become the wife of the ruler of Zeng, and it seems they wished to install her own son as heir.

Annals. Zhongsun Mie and Sun Linfu of Wei met with Wu at Shandao.

Annals. In autumn, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Prince Renfu.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, Guang, heir apparent of Qi, men of Wu, and men of Zeng, at Qi.

Gongyang. Why is Wu styled "men"? Because to say "Wu," by title, together with "the men of Zeng" would not read as proper wording.

Annals. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. In winter, [we] garrisoned Chen.

Gongyang. Who garrisoned it? The lords garrisoned it. Why does the text not say "the lords garrisoned it"? Because they arrived separately and could not be set down in proper order, and so the text says "we."

Annals. Prince Zhen of Chu led an army and attacked Chen.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, and Guang, heir apparent of Qi, and went to the relief of Chen. In the twelfth month, the duke arrived from relieving Chen.

Annals. On the day xinwei, Jisun Hangfu died.

Year 6 (襄公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the third month, on the day renwu, Gurong, Earl of Qi (杞), died.

Annals. In summer, Hua Ruo of Song fled here into exile.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Huan of Qi (杞) was buried.

Annals. The Viscount of Teng came to court.

Annals. Men of Ju extinguished Zeng.

Annals. In winter, Shusun Bao went to Zhulou.

Annals. Jisun Su went to Jin.

Annals. In the twelfth month, the Marquis of Qi extinguished Lai.

Gongyang. Why does the text not say the ruler of Lai fled into exile? When a state is extinguished, that its ruler dies for it is the proper course.

Year 7 (襄公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, the Viscount of Tan came to court.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the suburban sacrifice was divined three times, and the omens were not favorable, so the sacrificial victim was set free.

Annals. The Viscount of Xiaozhulou came to court.

Annals. [We] walled Bi.

Annals. In autumn, Jisun Su went to Wei.

Annals. In the eighth month, there were locusts.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the Marquis of Wei sent Sun Linfu to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. On the day renxu, [we] covenanted with Sun Linfu.

Annals. Prince Zhen of Chu led an army and besieged Chen.

Annals. In the twelfth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, and the Viscount of Zhulou, at Wei. Kunyuan, Earl of Zheng, went to the meeting, but did not live to see the assembled lords; on the day bingxu, he died at Cao (操).

Gongyang. What is Cao? A settlement of Zheng. When a lord dies within his own enfeoffed territory, the place is not ordinarily recorded — why is the place recorded here? To conceal what happened. What is concealed? That he was assassinated. Who assassinated him? His own grandees assassinated him. Why does the text not say his grandees assassinated him? Because it avoids naming it, for the Central States' sake. Why avoid naming it for the Central States' sake? The Earl of Zheng was about to meet with the assembled lords at Wei; his grandees remonstrated with him, saying: "The Central States are not worth turning to — better to side with Chu." The Earl of Zheng said: "It cannot be done." His grandees said: "If we hold the Central States to righteousness, we find they attack us in our mourning; if we hold them to strength, they are no match for Chu." Thereupon they assassinated him. Why is Kunyuan, Earl of Zheng, named? Because, wounded, he turned back, and died before reaching his lodging. He did not live to see the assembled lords — why then does the text say he "went to the meeting"? To convey his intention to attend.

Annals. The Marquis of Chen fled home.

Year 8 (襄公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke went to Jin.

Annals. In summer, Duke Xi of Zheng was buried.

Gongyang. The bandit who killed him had not yet been brought to justice — why then does the text record the burial? Because it avoids naming the matter, for the Central States' sake.

Annals. Men of Zheng raided Cai, and captured Prince Xie of Cai.

Gongyang. This was a raid — why then does the text say "captured"? When a raid is described as achieving a capture, it means they simply happened to get him.

Annals. Jisun Su met with the Marquis of Jin, the Earl of Zheng, men of Qi, men of Song, men of Wei, and men of Zhulou, at Xingqiu. The duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. Men of Ju attacked our eastern borderlands.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. In winter, Prince Zhen of Chu led an army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Shi Gai to come on a diplomatic visit.

Year 9 (襄公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, there was a fire in Song.

Gongyang. Why does the text sometimes say "calamity" and sometimes say "fire"? A great one is called a calamity; a small one is called a fire. If so, then why, when the fire is within our own state, does the text never say "fire"? Because not saying "fire" of our own state is a way of intensifying the description. Why is this recorded? To record a calamity. Calamities of outside states are not ordinarily recorded — why is this one recorded? Because Song, as the successor of the former kings, has its calamities recorded for that reason.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Su went to Jin.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day xinyou, the duke's wife, Lady Jiang, passed away.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day guiwei, we buried our lesser lady, Miu Jiang.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and Guang, heir apparent of Qi, and attacked Zheng. In the twelfth month, on the day jihai, they covenanted together at Xi.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked Zheng.

Year 10 (襄公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and Guang, heir apparent of Qi, and met with Wu at Zha.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day jiawu, they thereupon extinguished Biyang. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Prince Zhen of Chu and Gongsun Zhe of Zheng led armies and attacked Song.

Annals. The army of Jin attacked Qin.

Annals. In autumn, men of Ju attacked our eastern borderlands. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, Guang, heir apparent of Qi, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, bandits killed Prince Fei, Prince Fa, and Gongsun Zhe of Zheng.

Annals. [We] garrisoned Hulao in Zheng.

Gongyang. Who garrisoned it? The lords garrisoned it. Why does the text not say "the lords garrisoned it"? Because they arrived separately and could not be set down in proper order, and so the text says "we." The lords had already taken it — why then does the text attach it to Zheng? Because none among the lords could claim it as sole master, and so it is attached back to Zheng.

Annals. Prince Zhen of Chu led an army to the relief of Zheng.

Annals. The duke arrived from attacking Zheng.

Year 11 (襄公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the king's first month, [Lu] created three armies.

Gongyang. What are "three armies"? Three ranking ministers, to command them. Why is the creation of three armies recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? In antiquity there was a senior minister and a junior minister, a senior officer and a junior officer.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, the suburban sacrifice was divined four times, and the omens were not favorable, so the suburban sacrifice was not performed.

Annals. Gongsun Shezhi of Zheng led an army and raided Song.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, Guang, heir apparent of Qi, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and attacked Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day jiwei, they covenanted together at the north of the capital wall.

Annals. The duke arrived from attacking Zheng.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu and the Earl of Zheng attacked Song.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Cao, Guang, heir apparent of Qi, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and attacked Zheng, and met at Xiaoyu.

Gongyang. This was an attack on Zheng — why then does the text say they "met at Xiaoyu"? It seems that Zheng, now submitting, joined the meeting.

Annals. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Men of Chu seized the Zheng envoy Liang Xiao.

Annals. In winter, men of Qin attacked Jin.

Year 12 (襄公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, in the third month, men of Ju attacked our eastern borderlands, and besieged Tai.

Gongyang. Of a settlement, "besieged" is not ordinarily said — why then does the text say "besieged" here? When an attack is described as including a siege, it is the wording used to indicate that the settlement was taken; when an attack does not go on to say "besieged," it is not the wording used for taking the settlement.

Annals. Jisun Su led an army to the relief of Tai, and thereupon entered Yun.

Gongyang. A grandee properly has no independent authority to act "thereupon" — why then does the text say "thereupon" here? Because the duke was unable to hold the reins of government.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Jin sent Shi Peng to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, Cheng, Viscount of Wu, died.

Annals. In winter, Prince Zhen of Chu led an army and raided Song.

Annals. The duke went to Jin.

Year 13 (襄公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. In summer, [we] took Shi.

Gongyang. What is Shi? A settlement of Zhulou. Why does the text not attach it to Zhulou? To avoid naming how frequent such takings had become.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, on the day gengchen, Shen, Viscount of Chu, died.

Annals. In winter, [we] walled Fang.

Year 14 (襄公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Jisun Su and Shu Lao met with Shi Gai of Jin, men of Qi, men of Song, men of Wei, Gongsun Chai of Zheng, men of Cao, men of Ju, men of Zhulou, men of Teng, men of Xue, men of Qi (杞), and men of Xiaozhulou, and met with Wu at Xiang.

Annals. In the second month, on the new moon day yiwei, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, Shusun Bao met with Xun Yan of Jin, men of Qi, men of Song, Beigong Jie of Wei, Gongsun Chai of Zheng, men of Cao, men of Ju, men of Zhulou, men of Teng, men of Xue, men of Qi (杞), and men of Xiaozhulou, and attacked Qin.

Annals. On the day jiwei, Kan, Marquis of Wei, fled into exile to Qi.

Annals. Men of Ju raided our eastern borderlands.

Annals. In autumn, Prince Zhen of Chu led an army and attacked Wu.

Annals. In winter, Jisun Su met with Shi Gai of Jin, Hua Yue of Song, Sun Linfu of Wei, Gongsun Chai of Zheng, men of Ju, and men of Zhulou, at Qi.

Year 15 (襄公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, the Duke of Song sent Xiang Xu to come on a diplomatic visit. In the second month, on the day jihai, [we] covenanted with Xiang Xu at Liu.

Annals. Liu Xia went to Qi to meet the royal queen.

Gongyang. Who was Liu Xia? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. What is Liu? A settlement. Why is he styled by the name Liu? Because he takes his clan-name from his settlement. When an outside state meets a bride for its ruler, it is not ordinarily recorded — why is this recorded? Because he passed through our territory.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi attacked our northern borderlands, and besieged Cheng. The duke went to the relief of Cheng, and got as far as Yu.

Gongyang. Why does the text say he "got as far as Yu"? Because he did not dare advance further.

Annals. Jisun Su and Shusun Bao led an army and walled the outer wall of Cheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day dingsi, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. Men of Zhulou attacked our southern borderlands.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day guihai, Zhou, Marquis of Jin, died.

Year 16 (襄公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Duke Dao of Jin was buried.

Annals. In the third month, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, at Jiliang; on the day wuyin, the grandees covenanted.

Gongyang. The assembled lords were all present there — why then does the text say "the grandees covenanted"? Because good faith rested with the grandees. Why say that good faith rested with the grandees? To censure, all at once, every grandee under Heaven. Why censure, all at once, every grandee under Heaven? Because the rulers had become like the dangling tassel of a curtain — no more than an ornament.

Annals. Men of Jin seized the Viscount of Ju and the Viscount of Zhulou and returned home with them.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi attacked our northern borderlands.

Annals. In summer, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day jiazi, there was an earthquake.

Annals. Shu Lao met with the Earl of Zheng, Xun Yan of Jin, Ning Zhi of Wei, and men of Song, and attacked Xu.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi attacked our northern borderlands, and besieged Cheng.

Annals. The great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. In winter, Shusun Bao went to Jin.

Year 17 (襄公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, in the second month, on the day gengwu, Jian, Viscount of Zhulou, died.

Annals. Men of Song attacked Chen.

Annals. In summer, Shi Mai of Wei led an army and attacked Cao.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi attacked our northern borderlands, and besieged Tao. Gao Hou of Qi led an army and attacked our northern borderlands, and besieged Fang.

Annals. In the ninth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. Hua Chen of Song fled into exile to Chen.

Annals. In winter, men of Zhulou attacked our southern borderlands.

Year 18 (襄公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, the White Di came.

Gongyang. Who are the White Di? A ruler of the Yi and Di peoples. Why does the text not say he "came to court"? Because he was unable to perform the rites of a court visit.

Annals. In summer, men of Jin seized the Wei envoy Shi Mai.

Annals. In autumn, the army of Qi attacked our northern borderlands.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and together besieged Qi; Fuchu, Earl of Cao, died at the army camp.

Annals. Prince Wu of Chu led an army and attacked Zheng.

Year 19 (襄公十九年)

Annals. In the nineteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the lords covenanted at Zhu'e.

Annals. Men of Jin seized the Viscount of Zhulou.

Annals. The duke arrived from attacking Qi.

Gongyang. This was the joint siege of Qi — why then does the text register the return as "from attacking," rather than "from besieging"? Because Qi was in fact never besieged. If Qi was never besieged, then why did the earlier text say "besieged" Qi? To restrain Qi. Why restrain Qi? Because of how often Qi attacked others; or some say, because of Qi's arrogance and insolence, in having placed its heir apparent above the other assembled lords.

Annals. [We] took land from Zhulou, with the new boundary from the Guo River.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "from the Guo River"? Because the Guo was made the boundary. Why say the Guo was made the boundary? Because the Guo had shifted its course.

Annals. Jisun Su went to Jin.

Annals. Duke Cheng of Cao was buried.

Annals. In summer, Sun Linfu of Wei led an army and attacked Qi.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day xinmao, Yuan, Marquis of Qi, died.

Annals. Shi Gai of Jin led an army and raided Qi; on reaching Gu, he heard that the Marquis of Qi had died, and thereupon turned back.

Gongyang. What is meant by "turned back"? It is a term of praise. What is praised in it? The text magnifies his not attacking a state in mourning. Since he had received his ruler's command to attack Qi, what then is so great about his not attacking it in mourning? When a grandee goes out under his ruler's command, whether to advance or withdraw rests with the grandee.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day bingchen, Zhongsun Mie died.

Annals. Qi put to death its grandee Gao Hou.

Annals. Zheng put to death its grandee Prince Xi.

Annals. In winter, Duke Ling of Qi was buried.

Annals. [We] walled the western outer wall.

Annals. Shusun Bao met with Shi Gai of Jin at Ke.

Annals. [We] walled Wucheng.

Year 20 (襄公廿年)

Annals. In the twentieth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day xinhai, Zhongsun Su met with men of Ju and covenanted at Xiang.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day gengshen, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and covenanted at Chanyuan.

Annals. In autumn, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Zhongsun Su led an army and attacked Zhulou.

Annals. Cai put to death its grandee Prince Xie.

Annals. Prince Lü of Cai fled into exile to Chu.

Annals. Guang, younger brother of the Marquis of Chen, fled into exile to Chu.

Annals. Shu Lao went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the new moon day bingchen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. Jisun Su went to Song.

Year 21 (襄公廿一年)

Annals. In the twenty-first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke went to Jin.

Annals. Shuqi of Zhulou fled here into exile, bringing with him Qi and Lüqiu.

Gongyang. Who was Shuqi of Zhulou? A grandee of Zhulou. Zhulou has no recorded grandees — why then is this recorded? Because the land he brought mattered greatly.

Annals. In summer, the duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. In autumn, Luan Ying of Jin fled into exile to Chu.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the new moon day gengxu, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the new moon day gengchen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. The Earl of Cao came to court.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, and the Viscount of Zhulou, at Shangren.

Annals. In the eleventh month, on the day gengzi, Confucius was born.

Year 22 (襄公廿二年)

Annals. In the twenty-second year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day xinyou, Shu Lao died.

Annals. In winter, the duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, at Shasui. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Prince Zhuishu.

Year 23 (襄公廿三年)

Annals. In the twenty-third year, in spring, in the second month, on the new moon day guiyou, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In the third month, on the day jisi, Gai, Earl of Qi (杞), died.

Annals. In summer, Biwo of Zhulou fled here into exile.

Gongyang. Who was Biwo of Zhulou? A grandee of Zhulou. Zhulou has no recorded grandees — why then is this recorded? Because Zhulou lies so near that it is recorded.

Annals. Duke Xiao of Qi (杞) was buried.

Annals. Chen put to death its grandees Qing Hu and Qing Yin.

Annals. Guang, younger brother of the Marquis of Chen, returned from Chu to Chen.

Annals. Luan Ying of Jin entered again into Jin, entering by way of Quwo.

Gongyang. What is Quwo? A settlement of Jin. Why does the text say he "entered into Jin, entering into Quwo"? Luan Ying was about to enter Jin; the men of Jin would not admit him, so he entered by way of Quwo.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi attacked Wei, and thereupon attacked Jin. In the eighth month, Shusun Bao led an army to the relief of Jin, and halted at Yongyu.

Gongyang. Why does the text say "went to the relief of" Jin before it says "halted"? To convey the ruler's command first.

Annals. On the day jimao, Zhongsun Su died.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day yihai, Zangsun He fled into exile to Zhulou.

Annals. Men of Jin killed Luan Ying.

Gongyang. Why does the text not say they "put to death their grandee"? Because he was no longer their grandee.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi made a surprise attack on Ju.

Year 24 (襄公廿四年)

Annals. In the twenty-fourth year, in spring, Shusun Bao went to Jin. Zhongsun Jie led an army and raided Qi. In summer, the Viscount of Chu attacked Wu.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the new moon day jiazi, the sun was eclipsed, totally.

Annals. Cui Zhu of Qi led an army and attacked Ju.

Annals. There was a great flood.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the new moon day guisi, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, at Chenyi.

Annals. In winter, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Cai, the Marquis of Chen, and the Baron of Xu attacked Zheng. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Xian Yijiu of Chen fled into exile to Chu.

Annals. Shusun Bao went to the royal capital.

Annals. There was a great famine.

Year 25 (襄公廿五年)

Annals. In the twenty-fifth year, in spring, Cui Zhu of Qi led an army and attacked our northern borderlands.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day yihai, Cui Zhu of Qi assassinated his ruler, Guang.

Annals. The duke met with the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, at Chenyi.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day renzi, Gongsun Shezhi of Zheng led an army and entered Chen.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day jisi, the lords covenanted together at Chongqiu. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. The Marquis of Wei entered into Chenyi.

Gongyang. What is Chenyi? A settlement of Wei. Why does the text not say he "entered into Wei"? Because he had deceived his ruler by means of assassination.

Annals. Qu Jian of Chu led an army and extinguished Shujiu.

Annals. In winter, Gongsun Chai of Zheng led an army and attacked Chen.

Annals. In the twelfth month, Ye, Viscount of Wu, attacked Chu, and died at the gate of Chao.

Gongyang. What is meant by "died at the gate of Chao"? It means he entered the gate of Chao and there died. What is meant by "entered the gate of Chao and died"? It means he entered into Chao's gate and died. Why is Ye, Viscount of Wu, named? Because, wounded, he turned back, and died before reaching his lodging.

Year 26 (襄公廿六年)

Annals. In the twenty-sixth year, in spring, in the second month, on the day xinmao, Ning Xi of Wei assassinated his ruler, Piao. Sun Linfu of Wei entered into Qi in rebellion. On the day jiawu, Kan, Marquis of Wei, returned again to Wei.

Gongyang. This was Ning Xi deceiving his ruler by means of assassination — why then does the text say the Marquis "returned again"? To express contempt for Piao. Why express contempt for Piao? Because there was, at this point, no proper account given for Piao's installation as ruler. If so, then why does the text not elsewhere say that Piao was installed? Not saying that Piao was installed is also a way of expressing contempt for the Marquis of Wei.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Jin sent Xun Wu to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. The duke met with men of Jin, Liang Xiao of Zheng, men of Song, and men of Cao, at Chanyuan.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke of Song assassinated his heir apparent, Cuo.

Annals. Men of Jin seized Ning Xi of Wei.

Gongyang. This was the seizure of a guilty man — why then does it not count as a punitive action on behalf of the hegemon? Because he was not seized for his actual crime.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day renwu, Ning, Baron of Xu, died in Chu.

Annals. In winter, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Cai, and the Marquis of Chen attacked Zheng.

Annals. Duke Ling of Xu was buried.

Year 27 (襄公廿七年)

Annals. In the twenty-seventh year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi sent Qing Feng to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, Shusun Bao met with Zhao Wu of Jin, Qu Jian of Chu, Gongsun Guisheng of Cai, Shi E of Wei, Kong Yuan of Chen, Liang Xiao of Zheng, men of Xu, and men of Cao, at Song.

Annals. Wei put to death its grandee Ning Xi. Zhuan, younger brother of the Marquis of Wei, fled into exile to Jin.

Gongyang. Wei put to death its grandee Ning Xi — why then did Zhuan, younger brother of the Marquis of Wei, flee into exile to Jin? Because of his part in the killing of Ning Xi, he fled into exile. Why did he flee into exile because of the killing of Ning Xi? Earlier, Ning Zhi of Wei, together with Sun Linfu, had driven out the Marquis of Wei and installed Gongsun Piao. When Ning Zhi fell ill and was near death, he said to his son Xi: "That the duke was cast out was not my own intent — it was the Sun clan's doing. Once I am dead, can you be relied upon to bring the duke firmly back in?" Xi said: "I will." After Ning Zhi died, Xi took up his place as grandee. He sent a man to say to Duke Xian: "That you were cast out was not the Ning clan's doing — it was the Sun clan's doing. I wish to bring you back in — what do you say?" Duke Xian said: "If you truly wish to bring me back in, I ask that you and I make a covenant." Xi said: "There is no need to make use of a covenant — allow Prince Zhuan to bind the agreement." Duke Xian said to Prince Zhuan: "The Ning clan is about to bring me back in, and I wish to make a covenant with them. Their words were: 'There is no need to make use of a covenant — allow Prince Zhuan to bind the agreement.' You must, on my behalf, bind this agreement with them." Prince Zhuan declined, saying: "As for bearing the halter and tether, taking up the axe and block, and following my lord east and west, south and north — that is the business of a bondservant or a son by a concubine. But as for binding an agreement by pledged word to serve as good faith — that is not something a bondservant or a son by a concubine would presume to take part in." Duke Xian, angered, said: "Those who cast me out were none other than the Ning clan and the Sun clan — the matter rests entirely with you." Prince Zhuan, having no choice, bound the agreement with them. Once it was bound, he returned home, and upon arriving, killed Ning Xi. Prince Zhuan gathered up his wife and children and departed; as he was about to cross the [Yellow] River, taking his wife and children with him, he swore an oath with them, saying: "Should I ever again set foot on Wei soil, or eat of Wei's grain, may the pheasant of this oath bear witness against me."

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day xinsi, Bao, together with the grandees of the other lords, covenanted at Song.

Gongyang. Why does the text repeat the name "Bao"? Because it regarded the lords with unease. Why regard the lords with unease? Because Shi E of Wei was present there, and the text means: the followers of a wicked man were present there.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the new moon day yihai, the sun was eclipsed.

Year 28 (襄公廿八年)

Annals. In the twenty-eighth year, in spring, there was no ice.

Annals. In summer, Shi E of Wei fled into exile to Jin.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. Zhongsun Jie went to Jin.

Annals. In winter, Qing Feng of Qi fled here into exile.

Annals. In the eleventh month, the duke went to Chu.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jiayin, the Heavenly King died.

Annals. On the day yiwei, Zhao, Viscount of Chu, died.

Year 29 (襄公廿九年)

Annals. In the twenty-ninth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke was in Chu.

Gongyang. Why does the text say the duke "was in Chu"? Marking the first month is a way of preserving the record of the ruler's whereabouts.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, the duke arrived from Chu.

Annals. On the day gengwu, Kan, Marquis of Wei, died.

Annals. A gate-keeper assassinated Yuji, Viscount of Wu.

Gongyang. What is a "gate-keeper"? A man who tends a gate — a mutilated man. If he was a mutilated man, why then does the text call him a "gate-keeper"? Because a mutilated man is not regarded as a proper person. The gentleman does not keep close to mutilated men; to keep close to a mutilated man is a way of treating one's own death lightly.

Annals. Zhongsun Jie met with Xun Ying of Jin, Gao Zhi of Qi, Hua Ding of Song, Shishu Qi of Wei, Gongsun Duan of Zheng, men of Cao, men of Ju, men of Zhulou, men of Teng, men of Xue, and men of Xiaozhulou, and walled Qi (杞).

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Shi Yang to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. The Viscount of Qi (杞) came and covenanted.

Annals. The Viscount of Wu sent Zha to come on a diplomatic visit.

Gongyang. Wu has no recognized ruler and no recognized grandees — how then does this text have both a ruler and a grandee named, in this entry? Because it honors Ji Zi as worthy. Why does it honor Ji Zi as worthy? Because he declined the state. How did he decline the state? Ye, Yuji, and Yimei, together with Ji Zi, were four sons of the same mother; Ji Zi, though the youngest, had ability, and his brothers all loved him and together wished to install him as ruler. Ye said: "If we simply, in this pressed way, hand the state to Ji Zi now, Ji Zi will still not accept it. Let us instead not give it to a son, but to a younger brother — brother succeeding brother in turn as ruler — until in the end the state reaches Ji Zi." They all said, "Agreed." And so, from then on, each of those who became ruler treated death lightly as a mark of courage, and at every meal would pray, saying: "If Heaven indeed grants there to be a state of Wu, may it hasten to visit its regret upon my own person." And so, when Ye died, Yuji was installed. When Yuji died, Yimei was installed. When Yimei died, the state should rightly have gone to Ji Zi. But Ji Zi was away on a mission and not present. Liao was the eldest son by a concubine, and so he took the throne in his place. Ji Zi, his mission done, returned, arrived home, and treated him as ruler nonetheless. Helü said: "The reason our late lord did not give the state to a son but to a younger brother was entirely for Ji Zi's sake. If we are to follow our late lord's command, then the state should rightly belong to Ji Zi; if we are not to follow our late lord's command, then I am the one who should rightly have been installed — how then could Liao properly be ruler?" Thereupon he had Zhuan Zhu stab Liao to death, meaning to hand the state over to Ji Zi. Ji Zi would not accept it, saying: "You assassinated my ruler; if I accept the state from you, then I would be conspiring with you in usurpation. You killed my elder brother; if I in turn kill you, then it would be father and son, elder and younger brother killing one another without end, all our lives long." He departed to Yanling, and to the end of his life never again entered the state of Wu. And so the gentleman, on account of his refusing the state, accounted it righteousness in him, and on account of his not killing Helü in return, accounted it benevolence in him. If Ji Zi is honored as worthy, then why does this entry give Wu both a ruler and a grandee? Because, Ji Zi being reckoned a subject, Wu ought properly to have a ruler for him to serve. Who is "Zha"? He is Ji Zi of Wu, by personal name. The Chunqiu does not name a worthy man — why then is he named here? Because in sanctioning any degree of civilized conduct in the Yi and Di peoples, a single honor granted is not enough on its own. Ji Zi is one whom the text honors as worthy — why then is even this not enough for Ji Zi? Because to sanction a man as a subject, the text must make him properly a subject, and to sanction a man as a son, it must make him properly a son.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, Duke Xian of Wei was buried.

Annals. Gao Zhi of Qi fled into exile to Beiyan.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Jie went to Jin.

Year 30 (襄公卅年)

Annals. In the thirtieth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Viscount of Chu sent Wei Po to come on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, Ban, heir apparent of Cai, assassinated his ruler, Gu.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day jiawu, there was a fire in Song, and Boji died.

Annals. The Heavenly King put to death his younger brother Nianfu.

Annals. Prince Xia fled into exile to Jin.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Shu Gong went to Song, for the burial of Gong Ji of Song.

Gongyang. The burial of an outside state's duke's wife is not ordinarily recorded — why then is this recorded? To grieve for her. Why grieve for her? There was a fire in Song, and Boji died in it. Why is she styled by her posthumous title? Because she is honored as worthy. Why is she honored as worthy? There was a fire in Song, and Boji was still within her chambers. The officer in charge came again and said: "The fire has reached us — I beg you to come out." Boji said: "It cannot be. I have heard it said: a woman going out at night does not descend from the hall unless she has seen her governess and her nurse present. The governess has arrived, but the nurse has not yet come." She was overtaken by the fire and died.

Annals. Liang Xiao of Zheng fled into exile to Xu, then entered from Xu into Zheng; men of Zheng killed Liang Xiao.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Duke Jing of Cai was buried. The bandit who killed him had not yet been brought to justice.

Gongyang. Why then does the text record the burial? It is the wording of the gentleman, choosing restraint.

Annals. Men of Jin, men of Qi, men of Song, men of Wei, men of Zheng, men of Cao, men of Ju, men of Zhulou, men of Teng, men of Xue, men of Qi (杞), and men of Xiaozhulou met at Chanyuan, on account of the fire in Song.

Gongyang. What is meant by "on account of the fire in Song"? The lords met at Chanyuan entirely on account of the fire in Song. In recording a meeting, the text has never before stated the purpose for which it was held — why does it state the purpose here? To register what was done for Boji. The lords gathered together and made good what Song had lost, saying: "The dead cannot be brought back to life, but your goods shall be restored to you!" This was a great matter — why then does the text send men of low standing to represent the states? Because in fact it was their ministers who attended. If it was their ministers, why then does the text style them "men"? To demote them. Why demote them? Because it is not for ministers to take upon themselves concern for the affairs of the other lords.

Year 31 (襄公卅一年)

Annals. In the thirty-first year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day xinsi, the duke passed away in the Chu Palace.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, on the day guisi, Ziye died. On the day jihai, Zhongsun Jie died.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the Viscount of Teng came to attend the burial. On the day guiyou, we buried our lord, Duke Xiang.

Annals. In the eleventh month, men of Ju assassinated their ruler, Mizhou.

Duke Zhao (昭公)

Year 1 (昭公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke assumed his position.

Annals. Shusun Bao met with Zhao Wu of Jin, Prince Wei of Chu, Guo Zhuo of Qi, Xiang Xu of Song, Shi E of Wei, Prince Zhao of Chen, Gongsun Guisheng of Cai, Xuan Hu of Zheng, men of Xu, and men of Cao, at Guo.

Gongyang. This was Zhao, younger brother of the Marquis of Chen — why then does the text not style him "younger brother"? To demote him. Why demote him? He is demoted for killing the heir apparent, Yanshi; elsewhere the text says: "Zhao, younger brother of the Marquis of Chen, killed Yanshi, heir apparent of Chen." When one grandee kills another, the killer is styled "man" — why then, in this case, does the text style him by name and clan? To say that from this point on he would go on to assassinate his ruler outright. Since at the time of this meeting it was still only something he "would" do, why then does the wording match that used for one who has already personally carried out an assassination? Toward a ruler or a parent, one may harbor no such intention at all — to harbor the intention is itself a capital offense, without exception. If so, then why does the text not demote him only at the point of the actual assassination, later on? Because when it is a kinsman who assassinates, the crime and evil involved are graver still, and the Chunqiu, in cases where the crime and evil are made manifest without needing to wait for demotion and severance, does not resort to demotion and severance in order to make the crime and evil manifest; but in cases where the crime and evil are made manifest precisely by demotion and severance, it does resort to demotion and severance in order to make the crime and evil manifest. Here, Zhao's crime was already grave — why then does the text demote him again, here? To make manifest that Zhao indeed had this further guilt. How does it make manifest that Zhao had this guilt? By saying that Chu made a pretext of chastising Zhao in order to extinguish Chen.

Annals. In the third month, [we] took Yun.

Gongyang. What is Yun? A city of ours. Why does it speak of "taking" it? Because [its people] would not submit.

Annals. In summer, Zhen, younger brother of the Earl of Qin, fled into exile to Jin.

Gongyang. Qin has no [recorded] grandees — why then is this recorded? Because he took office in Jin. Why did he take office in Jin? [Qin] possessed a state of a thousand chariots, and yet could not tolerate its ruler's own maternal brother — and so a gentleman calls this "fleeing into exile."

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day dingsi, Hua, Viscount of Zhulou (邾婁), died.

Annals. Xun Wu (荀吳) of Jin led the army and defeated the Di at Dayuan.

Gongyang. This is [the place otherwise called] Dalu — why then does [the text] call it Dayuan? A place's physical features follow the naming of the Middle States; a settlement's name follows its local possessor. What is a "yuan"? Level ground on high ground is called "yuan"; level ground on low ground is called "xi."

Annals. In autumn, Quji of Ju entered Ju from Qi. Zhan of Ju fled into exile to Wu. Shu Gong (叔弓) led the army and marked the boundary of the fields of Yun.

Gongyang. What does "marked the boundary of the fields of Yun" mean? It means fixing a border with Ju. If it was fixing a border with Ju, then why did he lead an army when he went? Because [Lu] feared Ju.

Annals. Duke Dao of Zhulou was buried.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day jiyou, Juan, Viscount of Chu, died.

Annals. Gongzi Bi of Chu fled into exile to Jin.

Year 2 (昭公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, the Marquis of Jin sent Han Qi (韓起) on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. In summer, Shu Gong went to Jin.

Annals. In autumn, Zheng put to death its grandee Gongsun Hei.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin, reached the [Yellow] River, and turned back.

Gongyang. Why does it say "reached the river and turned back"? He dared not advance.

Annals. Jisun Su (季孫宿) went to Jin.

Year 3 (昭公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day dingwei, Quan, Viscount of Teng, died.

Annals. In summer, Shu Gong went to Teng.

Annals. In the fifth month, Duke Cheng of Teng was buried.

Annals. In autumn, the Viscount of Xiaozhulou (小邾婁) came to court.

Annals. In the eighth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. In winter, great hail fell.

Annals. Kuan, Earl of Beiyan, fled into exile to Qi.

Year 4 (昭公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's first month, great snow fell.

Annals. In summer, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Cai, the Marquis of Chen, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu (許), the Viscount of Xu (徐), the Viscount of Teng, the Viscount of Dun, the Viscount of Hu, the Viscount of Shen (沈), the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, Zuo, heir apparent of Song, and the Huai Yi met at Shen (申).

Annals. The people of Chu seized the Viscount of Xu.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Cai, the Marquis of Chen, the Baron of Xu, the Viscount of Dun, the Viscount of Hu, the Viscount of Shen, and the Huai Yi attacked Wu; they seized Qing Feng (慶封) of Qi and killed him.

Gongyang. This was an attack on Wu — why does it speak of seizing Qing Feng of Qi? Because it was an execution on Qi's behalf. How was it an execution on Qi's behalf? Qing Feng had fled to Wu, and Wu had enfeoffed him at Fang. If so, why does the text not say "attacked Fang"? Because [the text] does not sanction the feudal lords arbitrarily enfeoffing on their own authority. What was Qing Feng's crime? He had coerced the ruler of Qi and thrown the state of Qi into disorder. [Chu] then extinguished Li.

Annals. In the ninth month, [we] took Zeng.

Gongyang. Why does it speak of "taking" it? Because [Lu] extinguished it. If it extinguished it, why does the text speak of "taking" it? [The text] conceals grave evils on our own side — this is a case of discretion.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day yimao, Shusun Bao (叔孫豹) died.

Year 5 (昭公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month, [Lu] disbanded the central army.

Gongyang. What does "disbanded the central army" mean? A return to the ancient way. If so, why then does it not speak of "the three ministers"? With five [armies] there was also a middle one; with three there is also a middle one.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Qu Shen (屈申).

Annals. The duke went to Jin.

Annals. In summer, Mouyi (牟夷) of Ju came to us as a fugitive, bringing Moulou and Fang and Zi.

Gongyang. Who is Mouyi of Ju? A grandee of Ju. Ju has no [recorded] grandees — why then is he recorded here? Because the territory was weighty. Why does it say "and Fang and Zi, came as a fugitive"? So as not to let private estates be conflated with a public territory.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. On the day wuchen, Shu Gong led the army and defeated the army of Ju at Fenquan.

Gongyang. What is Fenquan? A "straight spring." What is a straight spring? A gushing spring.

Annals. The Earl of Qin died.

Gongyang. Why is he not named? Qin counts as a Yi state, and this hides whether it was the rightful heir who took power. When is he named? When the rightful heir has secured it.

Annals. In winter, the Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Cai, the Marquis of Chen, the Baron of Xu, the Viscount of Dun, the Viscount of Shen, the people of Xu, and the people of Yue attacked Wu.

Year 6 (昭公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Yigu, Earl of Qi (杞), died.

Annals. Duke Jing of Qin was buried.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Su went to Jin.

Annals. Duke Wen of Qi (杞) was buried.

Annals. Hua Hebi (華合比) of Song fled into exile to Wei.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. Wei Po (薳頗) of Chu led the army and attacked Wu.

Annals. In winter, Shu Gong went to Chu.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi attacked Beiyan.

Year 7 (昭公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, in the king's first month, [we] made peace with Qi.

Annals. In the third month, the duke went to Chu.

Annals. Shusun She (叔孫舍) went to Qi to attend a covenant.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the new moon day jiachen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day wuchen, E, Marquis of Wei, died.

Annals. In the ninth month, the duke arrived from Chu.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day guiwei, Jisun Su died.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day guihai, Duke Xiang of Wei was buried.

Year 8 (昭公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, Zhao, younger brother of the Marquis of Chen, killed Yanshi, heir apparent of Chen.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day xinchou, Ni, Marquis of Chen, died.

Annals. Shu Gong went to Jin.

Annals. The people of Chu seized Yu Zhengshi, envoy of Chen, and killed him.

Annals. Gongzi Liu of Chen fled into exile to Zheng.

Annals. In autumn, there was a muster at Hong.

Gongyang. What is a "muster"? A mustering and inspection of chariots and foot-soldiers. Why is it recorded? Because it was rare, and so it is recorded.

Annals. The people of Chen put to death their grandee Gongzi Guo.

Annals. The great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day renwu, the army of Chu extinguished Chen, seized Gongzi Zhao of Chen, banished him to Yue, and killed Kong Yuan of Chen.

Annals. Duke Ai of Chen was buried.

Year 9 (昭公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, Shu Gong met the Viscount of Chu at Chen.

Annals. Xu (許) moved its capital to Yi.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, there was a fire in Chen.

Gongyang. Chen had already been extinguished — why then does it speak of "a fire in Chen"? To preserve Chen [in the record] — one might say that in preserving Chen, [the text's compassion] is poignant indeed! Why preserve Chen? [Chu] extinguished a man's state, seized a man's criminal, killed a man's assassin, and buried a man's ruler — if it is so, then the preservation of Chen here is indeed a poignant thing!

Annals. In autumn, Zhongsun Jue (仲孫貜) went to Qi.

Annals. In winter, [Lu] built the park at Lang.

Year 10 (昭公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, Luan Shi (欒施) of Jin came to us as a fugitive.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Jisun Yinru (季孫隱如), Shu Gong, and Zhongsun Jue led the army and attacked Ju.

Annals. On the day wuzi, Biao, Marquis of Jin, died.

Annals. In the ninth month, Shusun She went to Jin.

Annals. Duke Ping of Jin was buried.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jiazi, Xu, Duke of Song, died.

Year 11 (昭公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, in the king's first month, Shu Gong went to Song.

Annals. Duke Ping of Song was buried.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day dingsi, Qian, Viscount of Chu, lured Ban, Marquis of Cai, and killed him at Shen.

Gongyang. Why is Qian, Viscount of Chu, named? To cut him off. Why cut him off? Because he lured him under the pretext of confirming his enfeoffment. This was a punishment of a criminal — even so, why cut him off for it? Because to harbor ill will and yet punish unrighteousness — a gentleman does not sanction that.

Annals. Gongzi Qiji (棄疾) of Chu led the army and besieged Cai.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day jiashen, the duke's wife, of the Gui lineage, passed away.

Annals. There was a great muster at Bipu.

Gongyang. What is a "great muster"? A mustering and inspection of chariots and foot-soldiers. Why is it recorded? Because it was rare, and so it is recorded.

Annals. Zhongsun Jue met the Viscount of Zhulou, and they covenanted at Qinyang.

Annals. In autumn, Jisun Yinru met Han Qi of Jin, Guo Zhuo (國酌) of Qi, Hua Hai (華亥) of Song, Beigong Tuo (北宮佗) of Wei, Xuan Hu (軒虎) of Zheng, the men of Cao, and the men of Qi (杞), at Quyin.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day jihai, we buried our lesser lord, Qigui.

Gongyang. Who is Qigui? Duke Zhao's mother.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day dingyou, the army of Chu extinguished Cai, seized You, heir apparent of Cai, took him home, and used him [in sacrifice].

Gongyang. This was a ruler who had not yet completed a full year on the throne — why then is he styled "heir apparent"? Because [the text] does not treat Duke Ling, his father, as a legitimate ruler, and so does not recognize him as having completed succession as his son. If it does not treat Duke Ling as a legitimate ruler, then why does it not recognize him as having completed succession as his son? The son of an executed ruler is not established as ruler — not out of anger at him, but because there was to be no continuation of that line. Where was he used? He was used at Fang. How was he used at Fang? It seems he was used in the building of the wall there.

Year 12 (昭公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, Gao Yan (髙偃) of Qi led an army and admitted the Earl of Beiyan into Yang.

Gongyang. What is "the earl, at Yang"? [It refers to] Gongzi Yangsheng. The Master said, "Now I understand it." Those beside him said, "Master, if you understand it, why not correct it?" He said, "What is to be done about what you yourselves do not know? The Spring and Autumn is a trustworthy history. Its sequence [of models] is Duke Huan of Qi and Duke Wen of Jin; its records of meetings are made by whoever presided over the meeting; but as for its wording here — I, Qiu, am at fault for it!"

Annals. In the third month, on the day renshen, Jia, Earl of Zheng, died.

Annals. In summer, the Duke of Song sent Hua Ding (華定) on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. The duke went to Jin, reached the [Yellow] River, and turned back.

Annals. In the fifth month, Duke Jian of Zheng was buried.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Cheng Ran (成然).

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Gongzi Zheng (公子整) fled into exile to Qi.

Annals. The Viscount of Chu attacked Xu (徐).

Annals. Jin attacked Xianyu.

Year 13 (昭公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, Shu Gong led the army and besieged Fei.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, Gongzi Bi (公子比) of Chu returned from Jin to Chu, and assassinated his ruler Qian at Ganxi.

Gongyang. This was an assassination of his ruler — why then does it speak of "returning"? Because in his returning there was no wrongdoing attached to the assassination-and-establishment. What does it mean that there was no wrongdoing in the assassination-and-establishment? King Ling had been without the Way: he built the terrace at Ganxi, and after three years it was still unfinished. Gongzi Qiji of Chu coerced Bi and set him up as ruler. Then he issued an order to the laborers on the Ganxi works, saying: "Bi has already been established. Those who return late will not recover their fields and dwellings." The multitude then dispersed and left, and King Ling hanged himself and died. Gongzi Qiji of Chu [afterward] assassinated Gongzi Bi. Bi had already been established as ruler — why then does the text still style him "Gongzi"? Because his intent was not proper. If his intent was not proper, then why does the text still attach the charge of "assassination" to him [for Qian's death]? By the righteousness proper to Bi, he ought to have died rather than accept the throne. When one grandee kills another, [the killer] is styled merely "a man" — why then is [Bi] here styled by name and clan in an act of "assassination"? To say that he was, from this, on the verge of making himself ruler by his own initiative.

Annals. In autumn, the duke met with Viscount Liu, the Marquis of Jin, the Marquis of Qi, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Wei, the Earl of Zheng, the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), and the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, at Pingqiu. In the eighth month, on the day jiaxu, they covenanted together at Pingqiu; the duke did not take part in the covenant, and the men of Jin seized Jisun Yinru and took him home. The duke arrived from the meeting.

Gongyang. What does it mean that "the duke did not take part in the covenant"? The duke was not permitted to take part in the covenant. If the duke was not permitted to take part in the covenant, and a grandee was seized, why does it record the arrival from the meeting? Because it was not a matter of shame. Why was it not a matter of shame? The feudal lords had thrown things into disorder, restoring Chen and Cai — a gentleman does not count it shameful not to have taken part in that.

Annals. Lu, Marquis of Cai, returned to Cai. Wu, Marquis of Chen, returned to Chen.

Gongyang. These were both states that had been extinguished — why then does it speak of "returning"? Because [the text] does not sanction the feudal lords arbitrarily enfeoffing on their own authority.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Duke Ling of Cai was buried.

Annals. The duke went to Jin, reached the river, and turned back.

Annals. Wu extinguished Zhoulai.

Year 14 (昭公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, [Jisun] Yinru arrived from Jin.

Annals. In the third month, Teng, Earl of Cao, died.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Wu of Cao was buried.

Annals. In the eighth month, Quji (去疾), Viscount of Ju, died.

Annals. In winter, Ju put to death its Gongzi Yihui (意恢).

Year 15 (昭公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Yimei, Viscount of Wu, died.

Annals. In the second month, on the day guiyou, sacrifice was offered at the Temple of the Martial.

Annals. The yue-dancers had entered [to perform], [when word came that] Shu Gong had died; [the rite] set aside the music and completed the service.

Gongyang. Why does it say "set aside the music and completed the service"? Because this was proper ritual. When the ruler has a service under way at the ancestral temple and hears of the death of a grandee, he sets aside the music but completes the service. When a grandee hears of the death of the ruler, he leaves the officiant and goes at once. When a grandee hears of the death of another grandee, he finishes the duties of the impersonator-of-the-dead and then goes.

Annals. In summer, Zhao Wu (昭吳) of Cai fled to Zheng.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the new moon day dingsi, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In autumn, Xun Wu of Jin led the army and attacked Xianyu.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin.

Year 16 (昭公十六年)

Annals. In the sixteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi attacked Xu (徐).

Annals. The Viscount of Chu lured the Viscount of Rongman, and killed him.

Gongyang. Why is the Viscount of Chu not named? When one Yi/Di lures another, a gentleman does not condemn it. Why does he not condemn it? To withhold condemnation here is in fact the very form the condemnation takes.

Annals. In summer, the duke arrived from Jin.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day jihai, Yi, Marquis of Jin, died.

Annals. In the ninth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. Jisun Yinru went to Jin.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Duke Zhao of Jin was buried.

Year 17 (昭公十七年)

Annals. In the seventeenth year, in spring, the Viscount of Xiaozhulou came to court.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the new moon day jiaxu, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In autumn, the Viscount of Tan (郯) came to court.

Annals. In the eighth month, Xun Wu of Jin led the army and extinguished the Benhun Rong.

Annals. In winter, a comet-star appeared at Dachen.

Gongyang. What is a "bo"? A comet. Why does it say "at Dachen"? Because it was located at Dachen. What is Dachen? [The star] Dahuo. Dahuo is [called] Dachen; Fa [the Punishment constellation] is also called Dachen; the North Pole star is likewise called Dachen. Why is it recorded? To note a portent.

Annals. The people of Chu and Wu fought at Chang'an.

Gongyang. A treacherous battle is not [normally] spoken of as a "battle" — why then does it here speak of "battle"? Because the two sides were evenly matched.

Year 18 (昭公十八年)

Annals. In the eighteenth year, in spring, in the king's third month, Xu, Earl of Cao, died.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day renwu, there were fires in Song, Wei, Chen, and Zheng.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To note a portent. What was portentous about it? It was portentous that they all suffered fire on the same day. Portents outside [our own state] are not normally recorded — why then is this recorded? Because it was recorded on behalf of the whole world.

Annals. In the sixth month, the people of Zhulou entered Yu.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Ping of Cao was buried.

Annals. In winter, Xu moved its capital to Baiyu.

Year 19 (昭公十九年)

Annals. In the nineteenth year, in spring, the Duke of Song attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day wuchen, Zhi, heir apparent of Xu, assassinated his ruler Mai.

Annals. On the day jimao, there was an earthquake.

Annals. In autumn, Gao Fa (髙發) of Qi led the army and attacked Ju.

Annals. In winter, Duke Dao of Xu was buried.

Gongyang. The assassin had not yet been punished — why then does it record the burial? Because [the text] does not treat this as a completed act of assassination. Why does it not treat it as completed? Zhi presented medicine and the medicine killed his father. If Zhi merely presented medicine and the medicine killed him, why then does the text attach the charge of "assassination" to him at all? To censure his falling short in the way of a son. How does it censure his falling short in the way of a son? It is said: when Yuezheng Zichun tended a sick man, adding one more portion of food would bring a clear recovery, and withholding one portion would likewise bring a clear recovery; adding one more garment would bring a clear recovery, and removing one garment would likewise bring a clear recovery. Zhi presented medicine and the medicine killed him — and it is for this that a gentleman attaches the charge of "assassination" to him, saying, "Zhi, heir apparent of Xu, assassinated his ruler Mai." This is the gentleman's way of holding Zhi to account. Yet "Duke Dao of Xu was buried" is the gentleman's way of pardoning Zhi. To "pardon Zhi" is the wording by which his guilt is remitted.

Year 20 (昭公廿年)

Annals. In the twentieth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, Gongsun Hui (公孫會) of Cao fled from Mei into exile to Song.

Gongyang. In [reports of] fleeing into exile there has never before been one that says "from [a place]" — why does this one say "from Mei"? Because he had rebelled. If he had rebelled, why then does it not say outright that he "rebelled"? Out of discretion for the sake of the descendants of Gongzi Xishi (喜時). The Spring and Autumn shows discretion for the worthy. In what way was Gongzi Xishi worthy? He yielded the state. How did he yield the state? When Lu, Earl of Cao, died on campaign, it was not yet known whether Gongzi Xishi or Gongzi Fuchu would take charge — whether one of them would become master within the state, or master with the army in the field. Gongzi Xishi, seeing that Gongzi Fuchu ought rightly to take charge, withdrew and stepped aside. If Gongzi Xishi was worthy, why then does [the text] show discretion for Hui? A gentleman's approval of the good is long-lasting, and his condemnation of the bad is brief; condemnation of the bad stops with the offender's own person, but approval of the good extends to his descendants. [Hui] was the descendant of a worthy man, and so a gentleman shows discretion for him.

Annals. In autumn, a bandit killed Zhe, elder brother of the Marquis of Wei.

Gongyang. When [the text says] "elder brother by the same mother" it is styled "elder brother" — why then was the elder brother not established as ruler? Because he had an illness. What illness? A loathsome illness.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Hua Hai, Xiang Ning (向甯), and Hua Ding of Song fled into exile to Chen.

Annals. In the eleventh month, on the day xinmao, Lu, Marquis of Cai, died.

Year 21 (昭公廿一年)

Annals. In the twenty-first year, in spring, in the king's third month, Duke Ping of Cai was buried.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Jin sent Shi Yang (士鞅) on a diplomatic visit.

Annals. Hua Hai, Xiang Ning, and Hua Ding of Song entered Nanli of Song from Chen, in rebellion.

Gongyang. What is "Nanli of Song"? It is, so to speak, as though one said "Yinzhu."

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the new moon day renwu, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day yihai, Shu Cuo (叔痤) died.

Annals. In winter, Zhu, Marquis of Cai, fled into exile to Chu.

Annals. The duke went to Jin, reached the river, and turned back.

Year 22 (昭公廿二年)

Annals. In the twenty-second year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi attacked Ju.

Annals. Hua Hai, Xiang Ning, and Hua Ding fled from Nanli of Song into exile to Chu.

Annals. There was a great muster at Changjian.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day yichou, the Heavenly King passed away.

Annals. In the sixth month, Shu Yang (叔鞅) went to the royal capital.

Annals. King Jing was buried.

Annals. There was disorder in the royal house.

Gongyang. Why does it speak of "disorder in the royal house"? To indicate that the trouble had not yet spread beyond it.

Annals. Viscount Liu and Viscount Shan, with Wang Meng (王猛), took up residence at Huang.

Gongyang. Why is he styled "Wang Meng"? Because he held the state in his charge.

Annals. In autumn, Viscount Liu and Viscount Shan, with Wang Meng, entered the royal city.

Gongyang. What is "the royal city"? Western Zhou. Why does it say "entered"? Because this is the wording for a usurpation.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Prince Meng died.

Gongyang. This was a ruler who had not yet completed a full year on the throne — why then does it style him "Prince Meng" in recording his death? Because [the text] does not sanction his having "held the state." Not sanctioning his "holding the state" means not sanctioning the wording proper to a legitimate succession in which the father dies and the son continues, or the elder brother dies and the younger brother succeeds.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the new moon day guiyou, the sun was eclipsed.

Year 23 (昭公廿三年)

Annals. In the twenty-third year, in spring, in the king's first month, Shusun She went to Jin.

Annals. On the day guichou, Shu Yang died.

Annals. The men of Jin seized our envoy Shusun She.

Annals. The men of Jin besieged Jiao.

Gongyang. What is Jiao? A city of the Son of Heaven. Why is it not attached [in the record] to Zhou? Because [the text] does not sanction naming an attack upon the Son of Heaven as such.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, Dongguo, Marquis of Cai, died in Chu.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, Gengyu, Viscount of Ju, came to us as a fugitive.

Annals. On the day wuchen, Wu defeated the armies of Dun, Hu, Shen, Cai, Chen, and Xu (許) at Jifu.

Gongyang. Kun, Viscount of Hu, and Ying, Viscount of Shen, were "extinguished"; Xia Nie (夏嚙) of Chen was "captured." This was a formally arranged battle — why then does the text speak of it in the wording proper to a treacherous battle? Because [the text] does not sanction a Yi/Di state taking the lead over the Middle States. If so, then why does it not have the Middle States take the lead? Because the Middle States were themselves behaving newly like Yi/Di. Why does it say "extinguished" for the rulers and "captured" for the grandee? To distinguish ruler from minister: when a ruler dies at his post, it is called "extinguished"; when taken alive, it is called "captured"; for a grandee, whether taken alive or dead, it is in either case called "captured." If [the text] does not sanction a Yi/Di state taking the lead over the Middle States, then why does it speak of [Wu] "capturing" Xia Nie of Chen? Because Wu was making some slight advance [in standing].

Annals. The Heavenly King resided at Diquan.

Gongyang. This was not yet three years [into his reign] — why then is he styled "Heavenly King"? To make manifest that there was indeed a Son of Heaven.

Annals. The Yin clan set up Prince Chao.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day yiwei, there was an earthquake.

Annals. In winter, the duke went to Jin; he reached the [Yellow] River, [but] the duke fell ill, and so turned back.

Gongyang. Why does it say "the duke fell ill and so turned back"? To temper the disgrace.

Year 24 (昭公廿四年)

Annals. In the twenty-fourth year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day bingxu, Zhongsun Jue died.

Annals. Shusun She arrived from Jin.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the new moon day yiwei, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. On the day dingyou, Yuli, Earl of Qi (杞), died.

Annals. In winter, Wu extinguished Chao.

Annals. Duke Ping of Qi (杞) was buried.

Year 25 (昭公廿五年)

Annals. In the twenty-fifth year, in spring, Shusun She went to Song.

Annals. In summer, Shu Ni (叔倪) met Zhao Yang (趙鞅) of Jin, Yue Shixin (樂世心) of Song, Beigong Xi (北宮喜) of Wei, You Ji (游吉) of Zheng, the men of Cao, the men of Zhulou, the men of Teng, the men of Xue, and the men of Xiaozhulou, at Huangfu.

Annals. There were mynah birds that came and nested.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To note a portent. What was portentous about it? It is not a bird of the Middle States, and [moreover] it properly nests in a hollow, yet here it built an open nest.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the first xin day, the great rain-sacrifice was performed. On the last xin day, it was performed again.

Gongyang. What is "performed again"? The second performance was not truly a rain-sacrifice — it was a gathering of the multitude in order to drive out the Ji lineage.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day jihai, the duke fled as a fugitive to Qi, and halted at Yangzhou.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi offered condolences to the duke at Yejing.

Gongyang. What does "offered condolences to the duke" mean? Duke Zhao had been about to assassinate the head of the Ji lineage, and he told Zijia Ju (子家駒): "The Ji lineage has for a long time now been without the Way, encroaching upon the ducal house's prerogatives — I wish to assassinate him. What do you think?" Zijia Ju said: "The feudal lords have for a long time encroached upon the prerogatives of the Son of Heaven, and the grandees have for a long time encroached upon the prerogatives of the feudal lords!" Duke Zhao said: "In what way have I myself encroached?" Zijia Ju said: "You have set up the twin watchtowers, you ride the great carriage, you use vermilion shields and jade battle-axes to dance the Daxia, and eight rows of eight to dance the Dawu — these are all rites proper to the Son of Heaven. Moreover, oxen and horses, when tethered and haltered, submit and are made tractable. The Ji lineage has held the allegiance of the people for a long time — my lord, do not heap further disgrace upon yourself!" Duke Zhao did not follow his advice, and in the end tried to assassinate him, and was defeated. He fled to Qi.

The Marquis of Qi offered him condolences at Yejing, saying: "How is it that my lord has left the altars of soil and grain of Lu?" Duke Zhao said: "I, a man in mourning, am without ability; I failed to hold the altars of soil and grain of Lu, and I bring shame upon those who attend to me." He bowed twice, touching his head to the ground, and praised Zijia Ju, saying: "I praise you, sir, for having saved your lord from great calamity." Zijia Ju said: "Your servant is without ability; I plunged my lord into great calamity. My lord could not bear to put me to the axe and the block, and instead granted me, as it were, a gift of death." He bowed twice, touching his head to the ground.

Gaozi bore a round basket of grain and four strips of dried meat, and Guozi bore a jar of drink, saying: "Our unworthy ruler heard that my lord was abroad, and that a proper meal had not yet been prepared, and makes bold to present dry provisions to your attendants." Duke Zhao said: "My lord does not forget my late ruler, and extends this even to me, a man in mourning, granting me so great a courtesy." He bowed twice, touching his head to the ground, and received it in the fold of his robe. Gaozi said: "There is an inauspicious man here — my lord need not trouble himself with so great a courtesy." Duke Zhao then offered a portion in sacrifice but did not himself taste it.

Duke Jing said: "I have the meager robes of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to wear; I have the meager vessels of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to use — I make bold to offer them to you." Duke Zhao said: "I, a man in mourning, am without ability; I failed to hold the altars of soil and grain of Lu, and bring shame upon those who attend to me — how should I dare accept so great a courtesy? I make bold to decline." Duke Jing said: "I have the meager robes of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to wear; I have the meager vessels of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to use — I make bold to press the request again." Duke Zhao said: "Since my ancestral temple remains on the soil of Lu, though I have the robes of my late lord, I am not able to wear them; though I have his vessels, I am not able to take them out and use them abroad — I make bold to decline once more." Duke Jing said: "I have the meager robes of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to wear; I have the meager vessels of my late lord, which I have not yet dared to use — let me instead use them to feast your attendants." Duke Zhao said: "I, a man in mourning — by what title should I even be addressed?" Duke Jing said: "What ruler is without a title?"

At this, Duke Zhao wailed aloud and wept, and all the grandees wept with him. Having wept, they made a mat of the bare ground, made a seat of a saddle-cloth, made a table of a saddle, and met one another with the rites proper to a chance encounter. Confucius said: "As for that ritual! — its wording is well worth observing!"

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day wuchen, Shusun She died.

Annals. In the eleventh month, on the day jihai, Zuo, Duke of Song, died at Quji.

Gongyang. What is Quji? A city of Song. When a feudal lord dies within his own enfeoffed territory, the place is not normally specified — why then is the place specified here? Out of anxious concern within.

Annals. In the twelfth month, the Marquis of Qi took Yun.

Gongyang. An outside state's taking of a town is not [normally] recorded — why then is this recorded? Because he took it for the sake of our duke.

Year 26 (昭公廿六年)

Annals. In the twenty-sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month, Duke Yuan of Song was buried.

Annals. In the third month, the duke arrived from Qi, and took up residence at Yun.

Annals. In summer, the duke besieged Cheng.

Annals. In autumn, the duke met with the Marquis of Qi, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, and the Earl of Qi (杞), and they covenanted at Tuanling. The duke arrived from the meeting, and took up residence at Yun.

Annals. In the ninth month, on the day gengshen, Ju, Viscount of Chu, died.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, the Heavenly King entered Chengzhou.

Gongyang. What is Chengzhou? The Eastern Zhou [capital]. Why does it say "entered"? Because there was no cause for suspicion.

Annals. The Yin clan, Viscount Shao, and Viscount Mao, with Prince Chao, fled to Chu.

Year 27 (昭公廿七年)

Annals. In the twenty-seventh year, in spring, the duke went to Qi. The duke arrived from Qi, and took up residence at Yun.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, Wu assassinated its ruler Liao.

Annals. Chu put to death its grandee Xi Wan (郤宛).

Annals. In autumn, Shi Yang of Jin, Yue Qili (樂祁犁) of Song, Beigong Xi of Wei, the men of Cao, the men of Zhulou, and the men of Teng met at Hu.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Wu, Earl of Cao, died.

Annals. Kuai of Zhulou came to us as a fugitive.

Gongyang. Who is Kuai of Zhulou? A grandee of Zhulou. Zhulou has no [recorded] grandees — why then is this recorded? Because it was close by, it is recorded.

Annals. The duke went to Qi; the duke arrived from Qi, and took up residence at Yun.

Year 28 (昭公廿八年)

Annals. In the twenty-eighth year, in spring, in the king's third month, Duke Dao of Cao was buried.

Annals. The duke went to Jin, and halted at Ganhou.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingxu, Ning, Earl of Zheng, died. In the sixth month, Duke Ding of Zheng was buried.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day guisi, Ning, Viscount of Teng, died.

Annals. In winter, Duke Dao of Teng was buried.

Year 29 (昭公廿九年)

Annals. In the twenty-ninth year, in spring, the duke arrived from Ganhou, and took up residence at Yun.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi sent Gao Zhang (髙張) to offer condolences to the duke.

Annals. The duke went to Jin, and halted at Ganhou.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day gengzi, Shu Ni died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Yun collapsed.

Gongyang. Towns are not normally said to "collapse" — why then does this say "collapsed"? Because [Yun] is treated as an outer-wall enclosure. Why is it treated as an outer-wall enclosure? Because the ruler was residing there.

Year 30 (昭公卅年)

Annals. In the thirtieth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke was at Ganhou.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day gengchen, Quji, Marquis of Jin, died.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, Duke Qing of Jin was buried.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, Wu extinguished Xu (徐), and Zhangyu, Viscount of Xu, fled to Chu.

Year 31 (昭公卅有一年)

Annals. In the thirty-first year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke was at Ganhou.

Annals. Jisun Yinru met Xun Li (荀櫟) of Jin at Shili.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day dingsi, Gu, Earl of Xue, died.

Annals. The Marquis of Jin sent Xun Li to offer condolences to the duke at Ganhou.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Xian of Xue was buried.

Annals. In winter, Heigong (黑弓) came to us as a fugitive, bringing Lan.

Gongyang. In the text, why is there no "Zhulou" [attached to Heigong's name]? Because [the text] grants free passage to Lan. Why does it grant free passage to Lan? Because the descendants of a worthy man ought to have land of their own. Who is meant by "the worthy man"? Shushu (叔術) is meant. In what way was Shushu worthy? He yielded a state. How did he yield the state?

At the time of Yan of Zhulou, a woman of Zhulou had become a wife of a duke of Lu — though it is not known whether it was the wife of Duke Wu or of Duke Yi. Duke Xiao [of Zhulou] was still young, and Yan committed licentious acts with nine sons of the ruling house within the palace, and through this brought in an assassin — though it is not known whether the assassin was a son of the Lu ruling house or a son of the Zhulou ruling house.

The mother of the Zang lineage was the one who reared the young ruler. When a ruler is young there ought properly to be someone to rear him — she might have been the concubine of a grandee, or the wife of an officer — though it is not known just what her own status was. One who rears a ruler must bring in her own child along with her to be reared together. When the mother of the Zang lineage heard that an assassin was coming, she exchanged her own child for the ruler, and, holding the ruler in her arms, fled. The assassin arrived, converged upon the ruler's bedchamber, and killed [the substitute child there]. Among the retainers were Bao Guangfu and Liang Maizi; hearing that an assassin had come, they hastened to the spot. The mother of the Zang lineage said: "The ruler is not dead — he is here. I exchanged my own son for the ruler." Thereupon they carried Duke Xiao on their backs to Zhou and laid a complaint before the Son of Heaven. The Son of Heaven, on his behalf, put Yan to death and established Shushu, and restored Duke Xiao to Lu.

Yan's wife was a daughter of Yuying, a woman of great beauty. She proclaimed: "Whoever can kill the one who killed Yan, I will become his wife." Shushu, for her sake, killed the one who had killed Yan, and took her as his wife; they had a son, called Xu. Xiafu was the son Yan had already had by her. While Xu was still small, Shushu loved both boys equally. At meals, he always had the two boys sit beside him and fed them there; when there was some rare delicacy, Xu was always given first claim to as much as he wanted. Xiafu said: "Bring it here — other people have not yet had enough, and yet Xu has more than enough." Shushu, perceiving this, said: "Ah! This truly is your state, is it not!" He rose and offered the state to Xiafu. Xiafu accepted it, and divided it in half. Shushu said, "This will not do!" Xiafu divided it into three; Shushu said, "This will not do!" Into four; Shushu said, "This will not do!" Into five — and only then did Shushu accept [his own small portion].

Gonghuzi was an elder of the fathers and elder brothers of Zhulou, versed in the old affairs of Zhulou. He said: "Where else has there ever been a case of a man's state spoken of as worthy in this way!" At the time when Yan was put to death, the Son of Heaven also died, and Shushu rose and offered the state to Xiafu. At that time, the people of Zhulou were constantly subjected to attack from Zhou, who said: "Why did you bring about the death of our Son of Heaven?"

If [the text] grants free passage to Lan, why then does the text have no "Zhulou" here? Because the world had not yet recognized Lan [as existing in its own right]. If the world had not yet recognized Lan, then why does it speak of him "coming as a fugitive with Lan"? Because Shushu was a worthy grandee: to cut him off entirely would go against Shushu's own wish not to be cut off; yet not to cut it off at all would make it a hereditary grandee-house, and by the proper duty of a grandee, his position may not be hereditary. And so here [the text] extends and grants it passage.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the new moon day xinhai, the sun was eclipsed.

Year 32 (昭公卅有二年)

Annals. In the thirty-second year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke was at Ganhou.

Annals. [We] took Kan.

Gongyang. What is Kan? A city of Zhulou. Why is it not attached [in the record] to Zhulou? Out of discretion, because [we had done] it too often.

Annals. In summer, Wu attacked Yue.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Heji (仲孫何忌) met Han Buxin (韓不信) of Jin, Gao Zhang of Qi, Zhong Ji (仲幾) of Song, Shishu Shen (世叔申) of Wei, Guo Can (國參) of Zheng, the men of Cao, the men of Ju, the men of Zhulou, the men of Xue, the men of Qi (杞), and the men of Xiaozhulou, and they walled Chengzhou.

Annals. In the twelfth month, on the day jiwei, the duke passed away at Ganhou.

Duke Ding (定公)

Year 1 (定公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's [time].

Gongyang. Why does [the record for] Duke Ding have no "first month"? "First month" marks the correctness of the ruler's accession. That Duke Ding's record has no "first month" is because his accession came late. Why did his accession come late? Duke Zhao was abroad, and it was not yet known whether his return would or would not be accomplished. Why was it not yet known? It rested with the Ji lineage. For Duke Ding and Duke Ai, [the text] has many veiled expressions; a reader versed in reciting it, even on inquiring into its tradition, may yet not know wherein his own fault [of not grasping it] lies.

Annals. In the third month, the men of Jin seized Zhong Ji of Song at the royal capital.

Gongyang. What was Zhong Ji's crime? He shirked his duty in the wall-building. Why does it say "at the royal capital"? Because it was a punitive action on behalf of the hegemon. If it was a punitive action on behalf of the hegemon, why then does it style [the men of Jin merely as] "men"? To demote them. Why demote them? Because [the text] does not sanction even the great power monopolizing the seizure of an offender on its own authority. Why does it not sanction it? In substance it sanctions it, but in wording it does not. Why does the wording not sanction it? Because by the proper duty of a grandee state, the power to seize an offender independently does not belong to it.

Annals. In summer, in the sixth month, on the day guihai, the coffin of the duke arrived from Ganhou. On the day wuchen, the duke took the throne.

Gongyang. If the coffin arrived on guihai, why then was it not until the day wuchen that he took the throne? The coffin must be set right between the two pillars before the accession may take place. Master Shen (沈子) said: "Only once the ruler is settled within the state does the accession take place." The day of accession is not normally recorded — why then is the day recorded here? Because it is set down out of concern for our own internal affairs.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day guisi, we buried our ruler, Duke Zhao.

Annals. In the ninth month, the great rain-sacrifice was performed.

Annals. [We] established the Yang shrine.

Gongyang. What is the Yang shrine? The shrine of Duke Yang. What does "established" mean here? "Established" means something that ought not to have been established. Establishing the Yang shrine was contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, frost fell and killed the bean crop.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To note a portent. This was in substance a natural disaster affecting the beans — why then is it recorded in the wording proper to a portent? Because the portentous aspect of it outweighed the disaster.

Year 2 (定公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day renchen, the Pheasant Gate and the twin watchtowers were struck by disaster.

Gongyang. Why does it speak of "the Pheasant Gate and the twin watchtowers" being struck by disaster? Because the twin watchtowers were the lesser structure. If so, then why does it not instead say "the Pheasant Gate was struck by disaster, and also the twin watchtowers"? Because what was chiefly struck by the disaster was the twin watchtowers. If the twin watchtowers were what was struck at the time, why then is it mentioned afterward? Because [the text] does not let the lesser item extend before the greater. Why is this recorded? To note a disaster.

Annals. In autumn, the people of Chu attacked Wu.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, [we] newly built the Pheasant Gate and the twin watchtowers.

Gongyang. Why does it say "newly built"? Because the repair was a major one. The repair of something old is not normally recorded — why then is this recorded? To censure. What does it censure? That [the ruler] did not attend diligently to the needs of the ducal house.

Year 3 (定公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, in the king's first month, the duke went to Jin, reached the [Yellow] River, and turned back. In the third month, on the day xinmao, Chuan, Viscount of Zhulou, died.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Zhuang of Zhulou was buried.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Heji and the Viscount of Zhulou covenanted at Zhi.

Year 4 (定公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's second month, on the day guisi, Wu, Marquis of Chen, died.

Annals. In the third month, the duke met with Viscount Liu, the Marquis of Jin, the Duke of Song, the Marquis of Cai, the Marquis of Wei, the Viscount of Chen, the Earl of Zheng, the Baron of Xu (許), the Earl of Cao, the Viscount of Ju, the Viscount of Zhulou, the Viscount of Dun, the Viscount of Hu, the Viscount of Teng, the Earl of Xue, the Earl of Qi (杞), the Viscount of Xiaozhulou, and Guo Xia (國夏) of Qi, at Shaoling, and they raided Chu.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day gengchen, Gongsun Guixing (公孫歸姓) of Cai led the army and extinguished Shen, took Jia, Viscount of Shen, home, and killed him.

Annals. In the fifth month, the duke and the feudal lords covenanted at Haoyou; Wu, Earl of Qi (杞), died at the meeting.

Annals. In the sixth month, Duke Hui of Chen was buried.

Annals. Xu moved its capital to Rongcheng.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, the duke arrived from the meeting.

Annals. Liu Juan (劉卷) died.

Gongyang. Who is Liu Juan? A grandee of the Son of Heaven. The deaths of grandees of outside states are not normally recorded — why then is his death recorded here? Because we presided over the affair.

Annals. Duke Dao of Qi (杞) was buried.

Annals. The people of Chu besieged Cai.

Annals. Shi Yang of Jin and Kong Yu (孔圄) of Wei led the army and attacked Xianyu.

Annals. Duke Wen of Liu was buried.

Gongyang. The burials of outside grandees are not normally recorded — why then is his burial recorded here? Because it is set down out of regard for our presiding over the affair.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, on the day gengwu, the Marquis of Cai, together with the Viscount of Wu, fought against the men of Chu at Boju, and the army of Chu was utterly defeated.

Gongyang. Why is [the ruler of] Wu styled "Viscount"? Because though a Yi/Di state, it took the troubles of the Middle States to heart. How did it take the troubles of the Middle States to heart? Wu Zixu's (伍子胥) father had been put to death in Chu; he took up his bow and left Chu, and sought audience with [King] Helü of Wu. Helü said: "What a fine officer! What great courage! I will raise an army for your sake and avenge you upon Chu." Wu Zixu replied: "The feudal lords do not raise armies for the sake of a common man. Moreover, your servant has heard: serving one's ruler is like serving one's father. To damage the ruler's righteous cause in order to avenge my father — your servant will not do this." And so the matter was dropped.

Duke Zhao of Cai went to pay court in Chu, and had with him a fine fur robe. Nang Wa (囊瓦) asked for it; Duke Zhao would not give it to him, and for this Nang Wa detained Duke Zhao at Southern Ying for several years before finally letting him return home. On his return, he performed a rite at the river, saying: "If among the feudal lords of the world there is any able to attack Chu, I, the unworthy one, ask to serve in his vanguard." The people of Chu, hearing of this, were enraged. For this reason they raised an army and sent Nang Wa to lead it against Cai. Cai asked Wu for rescue. Wu Zixu again said: "Cai is not truly at fault; the men of Chu have behaved without the Way. If my lord has it in his heart to take the troubles of the Middle States to heart, then now is the moment." And so [Wu] raised an army and rescued Cai.

It is said, "serving one's ruler is like serving one's father" — how then could this campaign serve as a means of avenging [Wu Zixu's father]? It is said: if a father did not deserve his execution, it is permissible for the son to avenge him; if the father did deserve his execution, for the son to avenge him is the way of passing the blade back and forth [endless retaliation]. In avenging a wrong, one does not draw out the harm; friends stand guard for one another but do not go ahead and act unilaterally — this is the way of antiquity.

Annals. Nang Wa of Chu fled into exile to Zheng.

Annals. On the day gengchen, Wu entered Chu.

Gongyang. Why is [the ruler of] Wu not styled "Viscount" here? Because it reverted to Yi/Di behavior. How did it revert to Yi/Di behavior? The Wu ruler lodged in the chambers of the Chu ruler, and the Wu grandees lodged in the chambers of the Chu grandees — it seems he even took the mother of the King of Chu as a wife.

Year 5 (定公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the new moon day xinhai, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In summer, grain was sent to Cai.

Gongyang. Who sent it? The feudal lords sent it. Why does it not say "the feudal lords sent it"? Because they arrived separately, at scattered times, and could not be set down in sequence — and so it speaks of "we."

Annals. Yuyue (於越) entered Wu.

Gongyang. What is "Yuyue"? What is "Yue"? "Yuyue" is the form used when [the state] has not yet been able to have its name pass current. "Yue" alone is the form used when it has become able to have its name pass current.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day bingshen, Jisun Yinru died.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day renzi, Shusun Bugan (叔孫不敢) died.

Annals. In winter, Shi Yang of Jin led the army and besieged Xianyu.

Year 6 (定公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, in the king's first month, on the day guihai, You Su (游遬) of Zheng led the army and extinguished Xu (許), and took Si, Baron of Xu, home.

Annals. In the second month, the duke raided Zheng.

Annals. The duke arrived from raiding Zheng.

Annals. In summer, Jisun Si (季孫斯) and Zhongsun Heji went to Jin.

Annals. In autumn, the men of Jin seized the Song envoy Yue Qili.

Annals. In winter, [we] walled Zhongcheng.

Year 6 (定公六年), concluded

Annals. Jisun Si (季孫斯) and Zhongsun Ji (仲孫忌) led the army and besieged Yun.

Gongyang. This is Zhongsun Heji (仲孫何忌) — why does [the Annals] call him Zhongsun Ji? To criticize [his use of] a two-character name. A two-character [given] name is contrary to ritual propriety.

Year 7 (定公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi and the Earl of Zheng made a covenant at Xian.

Annals. People of Qi seized Beigong Jie (北宮結), the envoy of Wey, and thereupon raided Wey.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey made a covenant at Shaze.

Annals. A great rain sacrifice was held.

Annals. Guo Xia of Qi (齊國夏) led the army and attacked our western borderlands.

Annals. In the ninth month, a great rain sacrifice was held.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 8 (定公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month, our Duke raided Qi. Our Duke returned from raiding Qi.

Annals. In the second month, our Duke raided Qi. In the third month, our Duke returned from raiding Qi.

Annals. Lu (露), Earl of Cao, died.

Annals. In summer, Guo Xia of Qi led the army and attacked our western borderlands.

Annals. Our Duke met with the army of Jin at Wa; our Duke returned from Wa.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day wuchen, Liu (柳), Marquis of Chen, died.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin (晉趙鞅) led the army and raided Zheng, and thereupon raided Wey.

Annals. Duke Jing of Cao was buried.

Annals. In the ninth month, Duke Huai of Chen was buried.

Annals. Jisun Si and Zhongsun Heji led the army and raided Wey.

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Wey and the Earl of Zheng made a covenant at Qupu.

Annals. The former dukes were sacrificed to in due order.

Gongyang. What is meant by "sacrificed to in due order"? It means the sacrifices followed proper sequence. Duke Wen reversed the sacrificial order, and three [ministers] departed [in protest]; Duke Ding restored proper order, and five [ministers] rebelled [in protest].

Annals. Thieves stole the precious jade and the great bow.

Gongyang. Who is meant by "thieves"? It means Yang Hu (陽虎). Who was Yang Hu? He was the steward of the Ji clan (季氏). The steward of the Ji clan was a man of low standing — how could he get hold of the state's treasures and steal them? Yang Hu controlled the Ji clan, and the Ji clan controlled the state of Lu. Yang Hu held Jisun captive, and the Meng clan and the Shusun clan took turns feeding him. [Jisun] looked about and carved [a message] into the boards [of his prison], saying: "On such-and-such month, such-and-such day, [Yang Hu] will kill me at Pupu. If you have the strength to save me, do it then." When the day and hour came, he was taken out. Lin Nan (臨南) was the one who drove [the carriage] when Yang Hu brought [Jisun] out. As they rode, Jisun said to Lin Nan: "Given that the Ji clan has, generation after generation, had loyal men — can you not spare me from death?" Lin Nan said: "If my strength is not enough — still, how would your servant dare not to try?" Yang Yue (陽越) was Yang Hu's younger cousin, and rode as guard on the right. Yang Hu's followers, in several tens of chariots, reached the crossroads at Meng. Lin Nan let his whip fall; Yang Yue got down to retrieve it; Lin Nan whipped the horses on and made for the House of Meng. Yang Hu pursued and shot at them; the arrow lodged in the Zhuang Gate. Then armed men rose up at Qinru. The assassination did not succeed; [Yang Hu] withdrew and lodged in the outskirts, and all [his men] relaxed and rested. Someone said: "Having failed to kill the lord of a thousand chariots — can we simply let this rest?" Yang Hu said: "That mere boy just happens to hold the state — what can he do to a grown man?" Then he looked about and said: "There he is! There he is! Hurry, yoke the horses!" Once the horses were yoked, Gong Lian Chufu (公斂處父) arrived leading troops, and only with difficulty did [Yang Hu] get free; from this he fled to Jin. What were the treasures? A halved jade tablet of white [jade], a bow with an embroidered body, and a tortoise[-shell piece] with a dark-blue border.

Year 9 (定公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, in the king's first month.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day wushen, Chai (囆), Earl of Zheng, died.

Annals. The precious jade and the great bow were recovered.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? They are treasures of the state — their loss was recorded, and so their recovery is recorded.

Annals. In the sixth month, Duke Xian of Zheng was buried.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey encamped at Wushi.

Annals. The Earl of Qin died.

Annals. In winter, Duke Ai of Qin was buried.

Year 10 (定公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's third month, [we] made peace with Qi.

Annals. In summer, our Duke met with the Marquis of Qi at Jiagu. Our Duke returned from Jiagu.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin led the army and besieged Wey.

Annals. People of Qi came and returned the lands of Yun, Huan, and Guiyin.

Gongyang. Why did the people of Qi come and return the lands of Yun, Huan, and Guiyin? Confucius was carrying out [his duties] under the Ji clan, and for three months [his policies] went uncontravened; because of this the people of Qi came and returned them.

Annals. Shusun Zhouchou (叔孫州仇) and Zhongsun Heji led the army and besieged Hou.

Annals. In autumn, Shusun Zhouchou and Zhongsun Heji led the army and besieged Fei.

Annals. Yue Shixin of Song fled to Cao. Prince Chi of Song fled to Chen.

Annals. In winter, the Marquis of Qi, the Marquis of Wey, and You Su of Zheng (鄭游遬) met at An.

Annals. Shusun Zhouchou went to Qi.

Annals. Chen, younger brother of the Duke of Qi, together with Zhong Tuo and Shi Kou of Song, fled to Chen.

Year 11 (定公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, Chen, younger brother of the Duke of Song, together with Zhong Tuo, Shi Kou, and Prince Chi, entered Xiao from Chen, in rebellion.

Annals. In summer, the fourth month.

Annals. In autumn, Yue Shixin of Song entered Xiao from Cao.

Annals. In winter, [we] made peace with Zheng.

Annals. Shu Huan (叔還) went to Zheng to attend the covenant.

Year 12 (定公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, Ding, Earl of Xue, died.

Annals. In summer, Duke Xiang of Xue was buried.

Annals. Shusun Zhouchou led the army and demolished [the walls of] Hou.

Annals. Gongmeng Kou of Wey (衛公孟彄) led the army and attacked Cao.

Annals. Jisun Si and Zhongsun Heji led the army and demolished [the walls of] Fei.

Gongyang. Why did they lead the army to demolish [the walls of] Hou? [Why] lead the army to demolish [the walls of] Fei? Confucius was carrying out [his duties] under the Ji clan, and for three months [his policies] went uncontravened. He said: "Households should not store armor; towns should not have walls a hundred zhi high." Thereupon they led the army and demolished [the walls of] Hou, and led the army and demolished [the walls of] Fei. What is a zhi? Five plank-lengths make one du; five du make one zhi; a hundred zhi make a [complete] city wall.

Annals. In autumn, a great rain sacrifice was held.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day guihai, our Duke met with the Marquis of Jin, and they made a covenant at Huang.

Annals. In the eleventh month, on the new-moon day bingyin, the sun was eclipsed. Our Duke returned from Huang.

Annals. In the twelfth month, our Duke besieged Cheng; our Duke returned from besieging Cheng.

Year 13 (定公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey encamped at Chuixia.

Annals. In summer, [Lu] built the Sheyuan Park.

Annals. A great hunt-review was held at Bipu.

Annals. Gongmeng Kou of Wey led the army and attacked Cao.

Annals. In autumn, Zhao Yang of Jin entered Jinyang, in rebellion.

Annals. In winter, Xun Yin (荀寅) and Shi Jishe (士吉射) of Jin entered Chaoge, in rebellion.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin returned to Jin.

Gongyang. This was rebellion — why then does [the Annals] speak of him "returning"? Because he used his territory to rectify the state. How did he use his territory to rectify the state? Zhao Yang of Jin took the armored troops of Jinyang to drive out Xun Yin and Shi Jishe. Who were Xun Yin and Shi Jishe? Evil men at the ruler's side. If this was driving out evil men from the ruler's side, why does [the Annals] speak of it as rebellion? Because there was no command from the ruler.

Annals. (This entry stands, unusually, inside the source's Gongyang bracket above, marked by a Wikisource editorial note as classic-text item 13.8; it is a bare annal line, not commentary, and is rendered here as such.) Xue assassinated its ruler, Bi.

Year 14 (定公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, Gongshu Shu of Wey (衛公叔戍) fled to us.

Annals. Zhao Yang (趙陽) of Jin fled to Song.

Annals. In the second month, on the day xinsi, Prince Jie of Chu and Prince Tuoren of Chen led armies and extinguished Dun, bringing back Qiang (牄), Viscount of Dun.

Annals. In summer, Beigong Jie of Wey fled to us.

Annals. In the fifth month, Yue (於越) defeated Wu at Zuili.

Annals. Guang, Viscount of Wu, died.

Annals. Our Duke met with the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey at Jian. Our Duke returned from the meeting.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi and the Duke of Song met at Tao.

Annals. The Heavenly King sent Shi Shang (石尚) to come and present sacrificial meat.

Gongyang. Who was Shi Shang? An officer of the Son of Heaven. What is "shen"? The meat set on the sacrificial stand. Raw meat is called "shen"; cooked meat is called "fan."

Annals. Kuaikui (蒯瞆), heir apparent of Wey, fled to Song.

Annals. Gongmeng Kou of Wey fled to Zheng.

Annals. Chen, younger brother of the Duke of Song, fled to us from Xiao.

Annals. A great hunt-review was held at Bipu.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou came to meet with our Duke.

Annals. [Lu] walled Jufu and Xiao.

Year 15 (定公十五年)

Annals. In the fifteenth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Viscount of Zhulou came to court.

Annals. Field mice gnawed the suburban sacrificial ox; the ox died, and another ox was divined for.

Gongyang. Why does it not say what part [of the ox] was eaten? Because it was gnawed all over.

Annals. In the second month, on the day xinchou, the Viscount of Chu extinguished Hu, bringing back Bao, Viscount of Hu.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day xinhai, the suburban sacrifice was performed.

Gongyang. Why was the suburban sacrifice performed in summer, in the fifth month? It was the outcome of the third divination.

Annals. On the day renshen, our Duke passed away in the Gaoqin chamber (高寢, "the High Chamber").

Annals. Xuan Da of Zheng (鄭軒達) led the army and attacked Song.

Annals. The Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey encamped at Quchu.

Annals. The Viscount of Zhulou came to hasten to the mourning.

Gongyang. Why does it say he "came hastening to the mourning"? Hastening to a mourning [in another state] was contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day renshen, Lady Si died.

Gongyang. Who was Lady Si? The mother of Duke Ai. Why is she not styled "the duke's wife"? Because [Duke] Ai had not yet become ruler [at that time].

Annals. In the eighth month, on the new-moon day gengchen, the sun was eclipsed.

Annals. In the ninth month, the Viscount of Teng came to attend the burial.

Annals. On the day dingsi, our lord Duke Ding was to be buried, but rain prevented the burial; on the day wuwu, when the sun had passed noon and was declining, the burial was completed. On the day xinsi, Ding Si [Lady Si, consort of Duke Ding] was buried.

Gongyang. Why is the burial of Ding Si recorded? [Duke Ai] was a ruler who had not yet completed a full year; but since he had a son [as ruler], she would have a shrine, and when there is a shrine, the burial is recorded.

Annals. In winter, [Lu] walled Qi (漆).

Duke Ai (哀公)

Year 1 (哀公元年)

Annals. In the first year, in spring, in the king's first month, our Duke took his place [as ruler].

Annals. The Viscount of Chu, the Marquis of Chen, the Marquis of Sui, and the Baron of Xu besieged Cai.

Annals. Field mice gnawed the suburban sacrificial ox; another ox was divined for.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day xinsi, the suburban sacrifice was performed.

Annals. In autumn, the Marquis of Qi and the Marquis of Wey attacked Jin.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Heji led the army and attacked Zhulou (邾婁).

Year 2 (哀公二年)

Annals. In the second year, in spring, in the king's second month, Jisun Si, Shusun Zhouchou, and Zhongsun Heji led the army and attacked Zhulou, taking the lands east of the Guo and west of the Yi. On the day guisi, Shusun Zhouchou and Zhongsun Heji made a covenant with the Viscount of Zhulou at Gouyi.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day bingzi, Yuan, Marquis of Wey, died; the Viscount of Teng came to court; Zhao Yang of Jin led the army and brought Kuaikui, heir apparent of Wey, into Qi.

Gongyang. What is Qi? A town of Wey. Why does it not say he "entered Wey"? The father had a son [who held the state as its ruler]; the son could not be said to belong to the father.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day jiaxu, the army of Zhao Yang of Jin and the army of Xuan Da of Zheng fought at Li; the army of Zheng was routed.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, Duke Ling of Wey was buried. In the eleventh month, Cai relocated to Zhoulai; Cai executed its grandee, Prince Si.

Year 3 (哀公三年)

Annals. In the third year, in spring, Guo Xia of Qi and Shi Manggu of Wey (衛石曼姑) led their armies and besieged Qi.

Gongyang. Why did Guo Xia of Qi join with Shi Manggu of Wey in leading armies to besiege Qi? It was a punitive action on behalf of the hegemon. How was this a punitive action on behalf of the hegemon? Manggu had received a command from Duke Ling to install Zhe (輒) [as ruler], and by Manggu's principle this was to be held firm — he could rightly resist [Kuaikui]. Who was Zhe? The son of Kuaikui. If so, then why was Kuaikui not installed, and Zhe installed instead? Kuaikui had behaved without the Way, and Duke Ling expelled Kuaikui and installed Zhe. If so, then was it right for Zhe to be installed? [We] say: it was permissible. How was it permissible? Not to use the father's command to decline the grandfather's command, but to use the grandfather's command to decline the father's command — this is the father's [authority] carried out through the son; not to use a family matter to decline the king's affairs, but to use the king's affairs to decline a family matter — this is the superior's [authority] carried out through the inferior.

Annals. In summer, in the fourth month, on the day jiawu, there was an earthquake.

Annals. In the fifth month, on the day xinmao, the shrine of Duke Huan and the shrine of Duke Xi caught fire.

Gongyang. These were both shrines that had [ritually] been decommissioned — why then does it speak of "fire" [as though they still stood]? Because they had been restored. Why does it not say that they had been restored? Once the Spring and Autumn has recorded something as witnessed, it does not record it as witnessed again. Why does it not join the two with "and"? Because they were equal in rank. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. Jisun Si and Shusun Zhouchou led the army and walled Kaiyang.

Annals. Yue Kun of Song led the army and attacked Cao.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day bingzi, Jisun Si died.

Annals. People of Cai banished their grandee, Prince-grandson Lie, to Wu.

Annals. In winter, in the tenth month, on the day guimao, the Earl of Qin died.

Annals. Shusun Zhouchou and Zhongsun Heji led the army and besieged Zhulou.

Year 4 (哀公四年)

Annals. In the fourth year, in spring, in the king's third month, on the day gengxu, brigands murdered Shen, Marquis of Cai.

Gongyang. When a ruler is assassinated by a person of low standing, [the Annals] traces the deed to that very person and names him; why here does it style [the killer] as "brigands" in recording the assassination? Because [this refers to someone] lower than the low. Who is "lower than the low"? It refers to convicted criminals.

Annals. Gongsun Chen of Cai fled to Wu.

Annals. Duke Hui of Qin was buried.

Annals. People of Song seized the Viscount of Xiaozhulou (the Lesser Zhulou).

Annals. In summer, Cai executed its grandees Gongsun Guixing and Gongsun Huo.

Annals. People of Jin seized Chi, Viscount of Rongman, and delivered him to Chu.

Gongyang. Who was Chi? The name of the Viscount of Rongman. Why does it say he was "delivered to Chu"? Master Beigong said: "It was to avoid [granting] Jin the standing of hegemon, and to treat Chu instead as the [central] capital."

Annals. [Lu] walled the western outer wall.

Annals. In the sixth month, on the day xinchou, the Pu altar-mound caught fire.

Gongyang. What is the "Pu altar"? The altar of a fallen state. An altar-mound is a [mound of] earth [marking a grant of territory] — why then does it speak of it "catching fire"? The altar of a fallen state is covered over: covered on top, with brushwood laid beneath it. Why is the burning of the Pu altar recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. In autumn, in the eighth month, on the day jiayin, Jie, Viscount of Teng, died.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, Duke Zhao of Cai was buried.

Annals. Duke Qing of Teng was buried.

Year 5 (哀公五年)

Annals. In the fifth year, in spring, [Lu] walled Bi.

Annals. In summer, the Marquis of Qi attacked Song.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin led the army and attacked Wey.

Annals. In autumn, in the ninth month, on the day guiyou, Chujiu, Marquis of Qi, died.

Annals. In winter, Shu Huan went to Qi.

Annals. In the intercalary month, Duke Jing of Qi was buried.

Gongyang. Intercalary months are not [normally] recorded — why then is this recorded? Because a mourning period is reckoned to include intercalary months. Why is a mourning period reckoned to include intercalary months? Because the reckoning of mourning is approximate.

Year 6 (哀公六年)

Annals. In the sixth year, in spring, [Lu] walled Zhulou-jia.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin led the army and attacked Xianyu.

Annals. Wu attacked Chen.

Annals. In summer, Guo Xia and Gao Zhang of Qi fled to us.

Annals. Shu Huan met with Wu at Zha.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day gengyin, Zhen, Viscount of Chu, died.

Annals. Yangsheng of Qi entered Qi.

Annals. Chen Qi of Qi (齊陳乞) assassinated his ruler, She.

Gongyang. When one assassinates [a ruler] and is then installed [as ruler], [the Annals] does not speak of him with the wording used for one in control of the state; why then does it here speak of [Chen Qi] with that wording? Because of his deceit. How was this deceit? Duke Jing said to Chen Qi: "I wish to install She [as heir] — what do you think?" Chen Qi said: "What is delightful about being ruler is that whomever you wish to install, you install, and whomever you do not wish to install, you do not install. If Your Grace wishes to install him, then your servant asks to install him." Yangsheng said to Chen Qi: "I have heard that you, sir, mean not to install me." Chen Qi said: "Now the lord of a thousand chariots, when about to depose the rightful [heir] and install one not rightful, must kill the rightful one. My not installing you, young master, is the very means of keeping you alive. Flee!" And he gave him a jade tally and sent him fleeing. Duke Jing died, and She was installed. Chen Qi sent men to welcome Yangsheng back, and lodged him at his own house. When the mourning for Duke Jing had ended, all the grandees were at court. Chen Qi said: "Chang's mother is holding a sacrifice of fish and beans — I hope the grandees will honor me with their presence." All the grandees said: "Very well." Thereupon they all went and sat at Chen Qi's house. Chen Qi said: "I have had some armor made — allow me to show it to you." All the grandees said: "Very well." Thereupon he had strong men lift a great sack and bring it to the center of the hall. The grandees, seeing it, all changed countenance in alarm; when it was opened, out sprang, with a start, Prince Yangsheng himself. Chen Qi said: "This is your ruler!" The grandees, having no choice, all drew back, faced north, bowed twice with their heads to the ground, and made him their ruler. From this point [Chen Qi] went on to assassinate She.

Annals. In winter, Zhongsun Heji led the army and attacked Zhulou.

Annals. Xiang Chao of Song (宋向巢) led the army and attacked Cao.

Year 7 (哀公七年)

Annals. In the seventh year, in spring, Huang Yuan of Song (宋皇瑗) led the army and raided Zheng.

Annals. Wei Manduo of Jin (晉魏曼多) led the army and raided Wey.

Annals. In summer, our Duke met with Wu at Zeng.

Annals. In autumn, our Duke attacked Zhulou.

Annals. In the eighth month, on the day jiyou, [Lu] entered Zhulou, and brought back Yi (益), Viscount of Zhulou.

Gongyang. [When the Annals records] "entering" [a state] it does not [also] speak of "attacking"; why here does it [also] speak of "attacking"? It is language [softened] for our own state, as though someone else had done it. Why is Yi, Viscount of Zhulou, named [by personal name]? To cut him off. Why is he cut off? Because he was captured. Why does it not say he was "captured"? Because it was a great wrong on our own state's part, and it is concealed.

Annals. People of Song besieged Cao.

Annals. In winter, Si Hong of Zheng (鄭駟弘) led the army and rescued Cao.

Year 8 (哀公八年)

Annals. In the eighth year, in spring, in the king's first month, the Duke of Song entered Cao, and brought back Yang, Earl of Cao.

Gongyang. Why is Yang, Earl of Cao, named [by personal name]? To cut him off. Why is he cut off? Because [his state] was extinguished. Why does it not say it was "extinguished"? To conceal the extinguishing of a state of the same surname [as Lu's ruling house]. Why conceal the extinguishing of a state of the same surname? Because [Lu] had the strength to save it and did not save it.

Annals. Wu attacked us.

Annals. In summer, people of Qi took Huan and Shan.

Gongyang. [When] outside states take [our] towns, it is not [normally] recorded; why then is this recorded? Because it was [given] to bribe Qi. Why bribe Qi? Because of having brought Yi, Viscount of Zhulou, [to Lu].

Annals. [Lu] returned Yi, Viscount of Zhulou, to Zhulou.

Annals. In autumn, the seventh month.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, on the day guihai, Guo (過), Earl of Qi (杞), died.

Annals. People of Qi returned Huan and Shan.

Year 9 (哀公九年)

Annals. In the ninth year, in spring, in the king's second month, Duke Xi of Qi (杞) was buried.

Annals. Huang Yuan of Song led the army and took the army of Zheng at Yongqiu.

Gongyang. Why does it say he "took" [the army]? Because it was easy. How was it easy? He deceived them.

Annals. In summer, people of Chu attacked Chen.

Annals. In autumn, the Duke of Song attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, the tenth month.

Year 10 (哀公十年)

Annals. In the tenth year, in spring, in the king's second month, Yi, Viscount of Zhulou, fled to us.

Annals. Our Duke met with Wu and attacked Qi.

Annals. In the third month, on the day wuxu, Yangsheng, Marquis of Qi, died.

Annals. In summer, people of Song attacked Zheng.

Annals. Zhao Yang of Jin led the army and raided Qi.

Annals. In the fifth month, our Duke returned from attacking Qi.

Annals. Duke Dao of Qi was buried.

Annals. Gongmeng Kou of Wey returned from Qi to Wey.

Annals. Yin, Earl of Xue, died.

Annals. In autumn, Duke Hui of Xue was buried.

Annals. In winter, Prince Jie of Chu led the army and attacked Chen.

Annals. Wu rescued Chen.

Year 11 (哀公十一年)

Annals. In the eleventh year, in spring, Guo Shu of Qi (齊國書) led the army and attacked us.

Annals. In summer, Yuan Po of Chen (陳袁頗) fled to Zheng.

Annals. In the fifth month, our Duke met with Wu and attacked Qi; on the day jiaxu, the army of Guo Shu of Qi fought with Wu at Ailing; the army of Qi was routed, and Guo Shu of Qi was captured.

Annals. In autumn, in the seventh month, on the day xinyou, Yumu, Viscount of Teng, died.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, Duke Yin of Teng was buried.

Annals. Shishu Qi of Wey (衛世叔齊) fled to Song.

Year 12 (哀公十二年)

Annals. In the twelfth year, in spring, [Lu] adopted the land-based levy.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To criticize. What is criticized? The criticism is of [Lu's] beginning to use the land-based levy.

Annals. In summer, in the fifth month, on the day jiachen, Meng Zi (孟子) died.

Gongyang. Who was Meng Zi? The wife of Duke Zhao. Why is she styled "Meng Zi"? To conceal that [Duke Zhao] had married a woman of the same surname [as Lu's ruling house] — she was, it seems, a woman of Wu.

Annals. Our Duke met with Wu at Tuogao.

Annals. In autumn, our Duke met with the Marquis of Wey and Huang Yuan of Song at Yun.

Annals. Xiang Chao of Song led the army and attacked Zheng.

Annals. In winter, in the twelfth month, there were locusts.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. What was the portent? It was untimely.

Year 13 (哀公十三年)

Annals. In the thirteenth year, in spring, Xuan Da of Zheng led the army and took [the forces of] Song at Yan.

Gongyang. Why does it say he "took" [them]? Because it was easy. How was it easy? By a deceitful reversal.

Annals. In summer, Xu (戌), Baron of Xu, died.

Annals. Our Duke met with the Marquis of Jin and the Viscount of Wu at Huangchi.

Gongyang. Why is Wu styled "viscount"? [Because although] Wu presided over the meeting — if Wu presided over the meeting, then why does [the text] name the Marquis of Jin first? Because [the Annals] does not grant that a Yi or Di [barbarian state] should preside over the Central States. Why then does it say "and the Viscount of Wu"? This is the phrasing for a meeting of two hegemons. If [the Annals] does not grant that a Yi or Di state should preside over the Central States, why then does it use the phrasing for a meeting of two hegemons? To give weight to Wu. Why give weight to Wu? Because with Wu present there, none of the lords of the realm dared not to attend.

Annals. Prince Shen of Chu led the army and attacked Chen.

Annals. Yue entered Wu.

Annals. In autumn, our Duke returned from the meeting.

Annals. Wei Duo of Jin led the army and raided Wey.

Gongyang. This is Wei Manduo of Jin — why does [the text] call him Wei Duo? To criticize [his use of] a two-character name. A two-character [given] name is contrary to ritual propriety.

Annals. Duke Yuan of Xu was buried.

Annals. In the ninth month, there were locusts.

Annals. In winter, in the eleventh month, a [broom-]star appeared in the east.

Gongyang. What is a "bo"? A comet. Why does it say "in the east"? Because it was seen at dawn. Why is this recorded? To record a portent.

Annals. Brigands murdered Xia Koufu of Chen.

Annals. In the twelfth month, there were locusts.

Year 14 (哀公十四年)

Annals. In the fourteenth year, in spring, a hunt in the west captured a lin.

Gongyang. Why is this recorded? To record a portent. What was the portent? It was not a beast of the Central States. If so, then who hunted it? A gatherer of firewood. A gatherer of firewood is a person of low standing — why then does [the text] speak of it as a [formal] hunt? To make it grand. Why make it grand? Because the capture of the lin makes it grand. Why does the capture of the lin make it grand? The lin is a benevolent beast. When there is a [true] king, it comes; when there is no [true] king, it does not come. Someone reported it, saying: "There is a doe-like creature with a horn." Confucius said: "For whom has it come! For whom has it come!" He turned back his sleeve to wipe his face, and his tears soaked his robe. When Yan Yuan died, the Master said: "Alas! Heaven is destroying me." When Zilu died, the Master said: "Alas! Heaven is cutting me off." At the western hunt's capture of the lin, Confucius said: "My Way is exhausted!"

Why does the Spring and Autumn begin with [Duke] Yin? Because that is as far back as what was handed down and could be heard by [Confucius's] forebears. For what was witnessed [at first hand], the wording differs; for what was heard [at one remove], the wording differs; for what was handed down by transmitted report, the wording differs. Why does it end in the fourteenth year of [Duke] Ai? It is said: it is complete!

Why did the gentleman compose the Spring and Autumn? To set right a disordered age and turn it back to correctness — nothing comes closer to this than the Spring and Autumn. But is it yet known whether this was truly so? Or was it, perhaps, that the gentleman took delight in speaking of the Way of Yao and Shun? And in the end, was this not also a joy — that Yao and Shun would have known him for a gentleman? He established the meaning of the Spring and Autumn to await a sage of a later age; in what the gentleman did, there was also, in this, a joy.

Colophon

This translation was prepared for the Chinese shelf of the Good Works Library and made independently from the classical Chinese text printed in full below. The source's two layers are kept distinct throughout: each chronicle line is set as a bulleted Annals block, and the catechism that follows it, where the source supplies one, is set as a Gongyang block; where an entry carries no catechism, the Annals line stands alone, following the source exactly. The dialogue form of the commentary — its chain of question and answer — is rendered as continuous prose dialogue rather than broken into a numbered exchange, to keep it readable as argument.

A complete published English translation of the Gongyang Commentary already exists: Harry Miller, The Gongyang Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals: A Full Translation (2015). It is named here as a control in existence only; it was not fetched or consulted, and no claim of firstness is made for this translation, which was derived directly from the Chinese characters of the source.

A note on terms and names. Several pairs of small states share a pinyin spelling once tone marks are dropped — Qi (杞) and Qi (齊) chief among them, and Ji (紀) and Ji (稷) another such pair — and this file gives the Chinese character in parentheses at each occurrence to keep them apart. The commentary's own technical vocabulary is kept consistent throughout: quan (權), the doctrine of principled deviation from the constant norm in service of a greater good, is rendered 'expedient judgment,' and da yi tong (大一統), the doctrine of unified reckoning under the king's own calendar, is rendered 'the great unity.'

Prepared for the Good Work Library by the Tianmu Anglican Church with AI-assisted translation and editorial work.

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Source Text: 春秋公羊傳

Classical Chinese text in the Chinese Wikisource transcription. Presented complete for reference, study, and verification alongside the English translation above.

隱公

隱公元年

元年春，王正月。〔元年者何？君之始年也。春者何？歲之始也。王者孰謂？謂文王也。曷為先言王而後言正月？王正月也。何言乎王正月？大一統也。公何以不言即位？成公意也。何成乎公之意？公將平國而反之桓。曷為反之桓？桓幼而貴，隱長而卑，其為尊卑也微，國人莫知。隱長又賢，諸大夫扳隱而立之。隱於是焉而辭立，則未知桓之將必得立也。且如桓立，則恐諸大夫之不能相幼君也，故凡隱之立為桓立也。隱長又賢，何以不宜立？立適以長不以賢，立子以貴不以長。桓何以貴？母貴也。母貴則子何以貴？子以母貴，母以子貴。〕

三月，公及邾婁儀父盟于眛。〔及者何？與也。會、及、暨，皆與也。曷為或言會，或言及，或言暨？會猶最也；及猶汲汲也；暨猶暨暨也。及，我欲之；暨，不得已也。儀父者何？邾婁之君也。何以名？字也。曷為稱字？褒之也。曷為褒之？為其與公盟也。與公盟者眾矣，曷為獨褒乎此？因其可褒而褒之。此其為可褒奈何？漸進也。眛者何？地期也。〕

夏，五月，鄭伯克段于鄢。〔克之者何？殺之也。殺之則曷為謂之克？大鄭伯之惡也。曷為大鄭伯之惡？母欲立之，己殺之，如勿與而已矣。段者何？鄭伯之弟也。何以不稱弟？當國也。其地何？當國也。齊人殺無知何以不地？在內也。在內雖當國不地也。不當國雖在外亦不地也。〕

秋，七月，天王使宰咺來歸惠公、仲子之赗。〔宰者何？官也。咺者何？名也。曷為以官氏？宰士也。惠公者何？隱之考也。仲子者何？桓之母也。何以不稱夫人？桓未君也。赗者何？喪事有赗。赗者蓋以馬，以乘馬束帛。車馬曰赗，貨財曰賻，衣被曰襚。桓未君則諸侯曷為來赗之？隱為桓立，故以桓母之喪告于諸侯。然則何言爾？成公意也。其言來何？不及事也。其言「惠公、仲子」何？兼之，兼之，非禮也。何以不言「及仲子」？仲子微也。〕

九月，及宋人盟于宿。〔孰及之？內之微者也。〕

冬，十有二月，祭伯來。〔祭伯者何？天子之大夫也。何以不稱使？奔也。奔則曷為不言奔？王者無外，言奔則有外之辭也。〕

公子益師卒。〔何以不日？遠也。所見異辭，所聞異辭，所傳聞異辭。〕

隱公二年

二年春，公會戎于潛。

夏，五月，莒人入向。〔入者何？得而不居也。〕

無駭帥師入極。〔無駭者何？展無駭也。何以不氏？貶。曷為貶？疾始滅也。始滅，昉於此乎？前此矣。前此則曷為始乎此？托始焉爾。曷為托始焉爾？《春秋》之始也。此滅也，其言入何？內大惡，諱也。〕

秋，八月庚辰，公及戎盟于唐。

九月，紀履緰來逆女。〔紀履緰者何？紀大夫也。何以不稱使？婚禮不稱主人。然則曷稱？稱諸父、兄、師、友。宋公使公孫壽來納幣，則其稱主人何？辭窮也。辭窮者何？無母也。然則紀有母乎？曰：有。有則何以不稱母？母不通也。外逆女不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始不親迎也。始不親迎，昉於此乎？前此矣。前此則曷為始乎？此托始焉爾。曷為托始焉爾？《春秋》之始也。女曷為或稱女，或稱婦，或稱夫人？女在其國稱「女」；在涂稱「婦」；入國稱「夫人」。〕

冬，十月，伯姬歸于紀。〔伯姬者何？內女也。其言歸何？婦人謂嫁曰歸。〕

紀子伯、莒子盟于密。〔紀子伯者何？無聞焉爾。〕

十有二月乙卯，夫人子氏薨。〔夫人子氏者何？隱公之母也。何以不書葬？成公意也。何成乎公之意？子將不終為君，故母亦不終為夫人也。〕

鄭人伐衛。

隱公三年

三年春，王二月己巳，日有食之。〔何以書？記異也。日食則曷為或日，或不日；或言朔，或不言朔？曰：「某月，某日朔，日有食之」者，食正朔也；其或日或不日，或失之前，或失之後。失之前者，朔在前也；失之後者，朔在後也。〕

三月庚戌，天王崩。〔何以不書葬？天子記崩不記葬，必其時也。諸侯記卒記葬，有天子存，不得必其時也。曷為或言崩或言薨？天子曰崩，諸侯曰薨，大夫曰卒，士曰不祿。〕

夏，四月辛卯，尹氏卒。〔尹氏者何？天子之大夫也。其稱尹氏何？貶。曷為貶？譏世卿，世卿非禮也。外大夫不卒，此何以卒？天王崩，諸侯之主也。〕

秋，武氏子來求賻。〔武氏子者何？天子之大夫也。其稱武氏子何？譏。何譏爾？父卒子未命也。何以不稱使？當喪未君也。武氏子來求賻，何以書？譏。何譏爾？喪事無求，求賻非禮也，蓋通于下。〕

八月庚辰，宋公和卒。

冬，十有二月，齊侯、鄭伯盟于石門。癸未，葬宋繆公。〔葬者曷為或日或不日？不及時而日，渴葬也；不及時而不日，慢葬也。過時而日，隱之也；過時而不日，謂之不能葬也。當時而不日，正也。當時而日，危不得葬也。此當時何危爾？宣公謂繆公曰：「以吾愛與夷，則不若愛女；以為社稷宗廟主，則與夷不若女，盍終為君矣？」宣公死，繆公立，繆公逐其二子莊公馮與左師勃，曰：「爾為吾子，生毋相見，死毋相哭。」與夷復曰：「先君之所為不與臣國而納國乎君者，以君可以為社稷宗廟主也。今君逐君之二子而將致國乎與夷，此非先君之意也。且使子而可逐，則先君其逐臣矣。」繆公曰：「先君之不爾逐可知矣，吾立乎此攝也。」終致國乎與夷。莊公馮弒與夷。故君子大居正，宋之禍宣公為之也。〕

隱公四年

四年春，王二月，莒人伐杞，取牟婁。〔牟婁者何？杞之邑也。外取邑不書，此何以書？疾始取邑也。〕

戊申，衛州吁弒其君完。〔曷為以國氏？當國也。〕

夏，公及宋公遇于清。〔遇者何？不期也。一君出，一君要之也。〕

宋公、陳侯、蔡人、衛人伐鄭。秋，翬帥師會宋公、陳侯、蔡人、衛人伐鄭。〔翚者何？公子翚也。何以不稱公子？貶。曷為貶？與弒公也。其與弒公奈何？公子翚諂乎隱公，謂隱公曰：「百姓安子，諸侯說子，盍終為君矣？」隱曰：「吾否，吾使修涂裘，吾將老焉。」公子翚恐若其言聞乎桓，於是謂桓曰：「吾為子口隱矣。隱曰：『吾不反也。』」桓曰：「然則奈何？」曰：「請作難，弒隱公。」於鐘巫之祭焉弒隱公也。〕

九月，衛人殺州吁于濮。〔其稱人何？討賊之辭也。〕

冬，十有二月，衛人立晉。〔晉者何？公子晉也。立者何？立者不宜立也。其稱人何？眾立之之辭也。然則孰立之？石碏立之。石碏立之，則其稱人何？眾之所欲立也。眾雖欲立之，其立之非也。〕

隱公五年

五年春，公觀魚于棠。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？遠也。公曷為遠而觀魚？登來之也。百金之魚公張之，登來之者何？美大之之辭也。棠者何？濟上之邑也。〕

夏，四月，葬衛桓公。

秋，衛師入盛。〔曷為或言率師或不言率師？將尊師眾稱某率師，將尊師少稱將；將卑師眾稱師，將卑師少稱人。君將不言率師，書其重者也。〕

九月，考仲子之宮。〔考宮者何？考猶入室也，始祭仲子也。桓未君則曷為祭仲子？隱為桓立，故為桓祭其母也。然則何言爾？成公意也。〕

初獻六羽。〔初者何？始也。六羽者何？舞也。初獻六羽何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始僭諸公也。六羽之為僭奈何？天子八佾，諸公六，諸侯四。諸公者何？諸侯者何？天子三公稱公，王者之後稱公，其餘大國稱侯，小國稱伯、子、男。天子三公者何？天子之相也。天子之相則何以三？自陜而東者，周公主之；自陜而西者，召公主之，一相處乎內。始僭諸公昉於此乎？前此矣。前此則曷為始乎？此僭諸公猶可言也，僭天子不可言也。〕

邾婁人、鄭人伐宋。

螟。〔何以書？記災也。〕

冬，十有二月辛巳，公子彄卒。宋人伐鄭，圍長葛。〔邑不言圍，此其言圍何？強也。〕

隱公六年

六年春，鄭人來輸平。〔輸平者何？輸平猶墮成也。何言乎墮成？敗其成也，曰：「吾成敗矣」，吾與鄭人末有成也。吾與鄭人則曷為末有成？狐壤之戰，隱公獲焉。然則何以不言戰？諱獲也。〕

夏，五月辛酉，公會齊侯，盟于艾。

秋，七月。〔此無事，何以書？《春秋》雖無事，首時過則書。首時過則何以書？《春秋》編年，四時具然後為年。〕

冬，宋人取長葛。〔外取邑不書，此何以書？久也。〕

隱公七年

七年春，王三月，叔姬歸于紀。滕侯卒。〔何以不名？微國也。微國則其稱侯何？不嫌也。《春秋》貴賤不嫌同號，美惡不嫌同辭。〕

夏，城中丘。〔中丘者何？內之邑也。城中丘，何以書？以重書也。〕

齊侯使其弟年來聘。〔其稱弟何？母弟稱弟，母兄稱兄。〕

秋，公伐邾婁。

冬，天王使凡伯來聘，戎伐凡伯于楚丘以歸。〔凡伯者何？天子之大夫也。此聘也，其言伐之何？執之也。執之則其言伐之何？大之也。曷為大之？不與夷狄之執中國也。其地何？大之也。〕

隱公八年

八年春，宋公、衛侯遇于垂。三月，鄭伯使宛來歸邴。〔宛者何？鄭之微者也。邴者何？鄭湯沐之邑也。天子有事于泰山，諸侯皆從。泰山之下，諸侯皆有湯沐之邑焉。〕

庚寅，我入邴。〔其言入何？難也。其日何？難也。其言我何？言我者非獨我也，齊亦欲之。〕

夏，六月己亥，蔡侯考父卒。辛亥，宿男卒。

秋，七月庚午，宋公、齊侯、衛侯盟于瓦屋。八月，葬蔡宣公。〔卒何以名而葬不名？卒從正，而葬從主人。卒何以日而葬不日？卒赴，而葬不告。〕

九月辛卯，公及莒人盟于包來。〔公曷為與微者盟？稱人則從不疑也。〕

螟。

冬，十有二月，無駭卒。〔此展無駭也，何以不氏？疾始滅也，故終其身不氏。〕

隱公九年

九年春，天王使南季來聘。

三月癸酉，大雨，震電。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？不時也。〕

庚辰，大雨雪。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？俶甚也。〕

俠卒。〔俠者何？吾大夫之未命者也。〕

夏，城郎。

秋，七月。

冬，公會齊侯于邴。

隱公十年

十年春，王二月，公會齊侯、鄭伯于中丘。

夏，翚帥師會齊人、鄭人伐宋。〔此公子翚也，何以不稱公子？貶。曷為貶？隱之罪人也，故終隱之篇貶也。〕

六月壬戌，公敗宋師于菅。辛未取郜，辛巳取防。〔取邑不日，此何以日？一月而再取也。何言乎一月而再取？甚之也。內大惡諱，此其言甚之何？《春秋》錄內而略外，於外大惡書，小惡不書，於內大惡諱，小惡書。〕

秋，宋人、衛人入鄭。宋人、蔡人、衛人伐載，鄭伯伐取之。〔其言伐取之何？易也。其易奈何？因其力也。因誰之力？因宋人、蔡人、衛人之力也。〕

冬，十月壬午，齊人、鄭人入盛。

隱公十一年

十有一年春，滕侯、薛侯來朝。〔其言朝何？諸侯來曰朝，大夫來曰聘。其兼言之何？微國也。〕

夏，五月，公會鄭伯于祁黎。

秋，七月壬午，公及齊侯、鄭伯入許。

冬，十有一月壬辰，公薨。〔何以不書葬？隱之也。何隱爾？弒也。弒則何以不書葬？《春秋》君弒，賊不討，不書葬，以為無臣子也。子沈子曰：「君弒，臣不討賊，非臣也。子不復讎，非子也。葬，生者之事也。《春秋》君弒，賊不討，不書葬，以為不系乎臣子也。」公薨何以不地？不忍言也。隱何以無正月？隱將讓乎桓，故不有其正月也。〕

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桓公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。〔繼弒君不言即位，此其言即位何？如其意也。〕

三月，公會鄭伯于垂。鄭伯以璧假許田。〔其言以璧假之何？易之也。易之則其言假之何？為恭也。曷為為恭？有天子存，則諸侯不得專地也。許田者何？魯朝宿之邑也。諸侯時朝乎天子，天子之郊，諸侯皆有朝宿之邑焉。此魯朝宿之邑也，則曷為謂之許田？諱取周田也。諱取周田則曷為謂之許田？系之許也。曷為系之許？近許也。此邑也，其稱田何？田多邑少稱田，邑多田少稱邑。〕

夏，四月丁未，公及鄭伯盟于越。

秋，大水。〔何以書？記災也。〕

冬，十月。

桓公二年

二年春，王正月戊申，宋督弒其君與夷及其大夫孔父。〔及者何？累也。弒君多矣，舍此無累者乎？曰：有，仇牧，荀息，皆累也。舍仇牧、荀息，無累者乎？曰：有。有則此何以書？賢也。何賢乎孔父？孔父可謂義形於色矣。其義形於色奈何？督將弒殤公，孔父生而存，則殤公不可得而弒也，故於是先攻孔父之家。殤公知孔父死，己必死，趨而救之，皆死焉。孔父正色而立於朝，則人莫敢過而致難於其君者，孔父可謂義形於色矣。〕

滕子來朝。三月，公會齊侯、陳侯、鄭伯于稷，以成宋亂。〔內大惡諱，此其目言之何？遠也。所見異辭，所聞異辭，所傳聞異辭。隱亦遠矣，曷為為隱諱？隱賢而桓賤也。〕

夏，四月，取郜大鼎于宋。〔此取之宋，其謂之郜鼎何？器從名，地從主人。器何以從名？地何以從主人？器之與人，非有即爾。宋始以不義取之，故謂之郜鼎；至乎地之與人則不然，俄而可以為其有矣。然則為取可以為其有乎？曰：否。何者？若楚王之妻媦，無時焉可也。〕

戊申，納于太廟。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？遂亂受賂，納于太廟，非禮也。〕

秋，七月，紀侯來朝。蔡侯、鄭伯會于鄧。〔離不言會，此其言會何？蓋鄧與會爾。〕

九月，入杞。公及戎盟于唐。

冬，公至自唐。

桓公三年

三年春，正月，公會齊侯于嬴。

夏，齊侯、衛侯胥命于蒲。〔胥命者何？相命也。何言乎相命？近正也。此其為近正奈何？古者不盟，結言而退。〕

六月，公會紀侯于盛。

秋，七月壬辰朔，日有食之，既。〔既者何？盡也。〕

公子翚如齊逆女。九月，齊侯送姜氏于讙。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？諸侯越竟送女，非禮也。此入國矣，何以不稱夫人？自我言齊，父母之於子，雖為鄰國夫人，猶曰吾姜氏。〕

公會齊侯于讙，夫人姜氏至自齊。〔翚何以不致？得見乎公矣。〕

冬，齊侯使其弟年來聘。有年。〔有年，何以書？以喜書也。大有年，何以書？亦以喜書也。此其曰有年何？僅有年也。彼其曰大有年何？大豐年也。僅有年亦足以當喜乎？恃有年也。〕

桓公四年

四年春，正月，公狩于郎。〔狩者何？田狩也，春曰苗，秋曰搜，冬曰狩。常事不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？遠也。諸侯曷為必田狩？一曰乾豆，二曰賓客，三曰充君之庖。〕

夏，天王使宰渠伯糾來聘。〔宰渠伯糾者何？天子之大夫也。其稱宰渠伯糾何？下大夫也。〕

桓公五年

五年春，正月甲戌、己丑，陳侯鮑卒。〔曷為以二日卒之？怴也。甲戌之日亡、己丑之日死而得，君子疑焉，故以二日卒之也。〕

夏，齊侯、鄭伯如紀。〔外相如不書，此何以書？離不言會。〕

天王使仍叔之子來聘。〔仍叔之子者何？天子之大夫也。其稱仍叔之子何？譏。何譏爾？譏父老子代從政也。〕

葬陳桓公。

城祝丘。

秋，蔡人、衛人、陳人從王伐鄭。〔其言從王伐鄭何？從王正也。〕

大雩。〔大雩者何？旱祭也。然則何以不言旱？言雩則旱見；言旱則雩不見。何以書？記災也。〕

螽。〔何以書？記災也。〕

冬，州公如曹。〔外相如不書，此何以書？過我也。〕

桓公六年

六年春，正月，寔來。〔寔來者何？猶曰是人來也。孰謂？謂州公也。曷為謂之寔來？慢之也。曷為慢之？化我也。〕

夏，四月，公會紀侯于成。

秋，八月壬午，大閱。〔大閱者何？簡車徒也。何以書？蓋以罕書也。〕

蔡人殺陳佗。〔陳佗者何？陳君也。陳君則曷為謂之陳佗？絕也。曷為絕之？賤也。其賤奈何？外淫也。惡乎淫？淫于蔡，蔡人殺之。〕

九月丁卯，子同生。〔子同生者孰謂？謂莊公也。何言乎子同生？喜有正也。未有言喜有正者，此其言喜有正何？久無正也。子公羊子曰：「其諸以病桓與？」〕

冬，紀侯來朝。

桓公七年

七年春，二月己亥，焚咸丘。〔焚之者何？樵之也。樵之者何？以火攻也。何言乎以火攻？疾始以火攻也。咸丘者何？邾婁之邑也。曷為不系乎邾婁？國之也。曷為國之？君存焉爾。〕

夏，穀伯綏來朝。鄧侯吾離來朝。〔皆何以名？失地之君也。其稱侯朝何？貴者無後，待之以初也。〕

桓公八年

八年春，正月己卯，烝。〔烝者何？冬祭也。春曰祠，夏曰礿，秋曰嘗，冬曰烝。常事不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏亟也。亟則黷，黷則不敬。君子之祭也，敬而不黷。疏則怠，怠則忘。士不及茲四者，則冬不裘，夏不葛。〕

天王使家父來聘。

夏，五月丁丑，烝。〔何以書？譏亟也。〕

秋，伐邾婁。

冬，十月，雨雪。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？不時也。〕

祭公來，遂逆王后于紀。〔祭公者何？天子之三公也。何以不稱使？婚禮不稱主人。遂者何？生事也。大夫無遂事，此其言遂何？成使乎我也。其成使乎我奈何？使我為媒可，則因用是往逆矣。女在其國稱女，此其稱王后何？王者無外，其辭成矣。〕

桓公九年

九年春，紀季姜歸于京師。〔其辭成矣，則其稱紀季姜何？自我言，紀父母之於子，雖為天王后，猶曰吾季姜。京師者何？天子之居也。京者何？大也。師者何？眾也。天子之居，必以眾大之辭言之。〕

夏，四月。

秋，七月。

冬，曹伯使其世子射姑來朝。〔諸侯來曰朝。此世子也，其言朝何？《春秋》有譏父老子代從政者，則未知其在齊與？曹與？〕

桓公十年

十年春，王正月庚申，曹伯終生卒。

夏，五月，葬曹桓公。

秋，公會衛侯于桃丘，弗遇。〔會者何？期辭也。其言弗遇何？公不見要也。〕

冬，十有二月丙午，齊侯、衛侯、鄭伯來戰于郎。〔郎者何？吾近邑也。吾近邑則其言來戰于郎何？近也。惡乎近？近乎圍也。此偏戰也，何以不言師敗績？內不言戰，言戰乃敗矣。〕

桓公十一年

十有一年春，正月，齊人、衛人、鄭人盟于惡曹。

夏，五月癸未，鄭伯寤生卒。

秋，七月，葬鄭莊公。九月，宋人執鄭祭仲。〔祭仲者何？鄭相也。何以不名？賢也。何賢乎祭仲？以為知權也。其為知權奈何？古者鄭國處于留。先鄭伯有善于鄶公者，通乎夫人，以取其國而遷鄭焉，而野留。莊公死已葬，祭仲將往省于留，涂出于宋，宋人執之，謂之曰：「為我出忽而立突。」祭仲不從其言，則君必死、國必亡；從其言，則君可以生易死，國可以存易亡。少遼緩之，則突可故出，而忽可故反，是不可得則病，然後有鄭國。古人之有權者，祭仲之權是也。權者何？權者反於經，然後有善者也。權之所設，舍死亡無所設。行權有道，自貶損以行權，不害人以行權。殺人以自生，亡人以自存，君子不為也。〕

突歸于鄭。〔突何以名？挈乎祭仲也。其言歸何？順祭仲也。〕

鄭忽出奔衛。〔忽何以名？《春秋》伯、子、男一也，辭無所貶。〕

柔會宋公、陳侯、蔡叔盟于折。〔柔者何？吾大夫之未命者也。〕

公會宋公于夫童。

冬，十有二月，公會宋公于闞。

桓公十二年

十有二年春，正月。

夏，六月壬寅，公會紀侯、莒子，盟于毆蛇。

秋，七月丁亥，公會宋公、燕人，盟于穀丘。

八月，壬辰，陳侯躍卒。公會宋公于郯。

冬，十有一月，公會宋公于龜。丙戌，公會鄭伯，盟于武父。

丙戌，衛侯晉卒。

十有二月，及鄭師伐宋。丁未，戰于宋。〔戰不言伐，此其言伐何？辟嫌也。惡乎嫌？嫌與鄭人戰也。此偏戰也，何以不言師敗績？內不言戰，言戰乃敗矣！〕

桓公十三年

十有三年春，二月，公會紀侯、鄭伯。己巳，及齊侯、宋公、衛侯、燕人戰，齊師、宋師、衛師、燕師敗績。〔曷為後日？恃外也。其恃外奈何？得紀侯、鄭伯，然後能為日也。內不言戰，此其言戰何？從外也。曷為從外？恃外故從外也。何以不地？近也。惡乎近？近乎圍。郎亦近矣，郎何以地？郎猶可以地也。〕

三月，葬衛宣公。

夏，大水。

秋，七月。

冬，十月。

桓公十四年

十有四年春，正月，公會鄭伯于曹。

無冰。〔何以書？記異也。〕

夏，五。鄭伯使其弟語來盟。〔夏五者何？無聞焉爾。〕

秋，八月壬申，御廩災。〔御廩者何？粢盛委之所藏也。御廩災，何以書？記災也。〕

乙亥，嘗。〔常事不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏嘗也。曰：猶嘗乎！御廩災，不如勿嘗而已矣！〕

冬，十有二月丁巳，齊侯祿父卒。

宋人以齊人、衛人、蔡人、陳人伐鄭。〔以者何？行其意也。〕

桓公十五年

十有五年春，二月，天王使家父來求車。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？王者無求；求車，非禮也。〕

三月乙未，天王崩。

夏，四月己巳，葬齊僖公。

五月，鄭伯突出奔蔡。〔突何以名？奪正也。〕

鄭世子忽復歸于鄭。〔其稱世子何？復正也。曷為或言歸？或言復歸？復歸者，出惡，歸無惡；復入者，出無惡，入有惡。入者，出入惡。歸者，出入無惡。〕

許叔入于許。公會齊侯于鄗。邾婁人、牟人、葛人來朝。〔皆何以稱人？夷狄之也。〕

秋，九月，鄭伯突入于櫟。〔櫟者何？鄭之邑。曷為不言入于鄭？末言爾。曷為末言爾？祭仲亡矣。然則曷為不言忽之出奔？言忽為君之微也。祭仲存則存矣，祭仲亡則亡矣！〕

冬，十有一月，公會齊侯、宋公、衛侯、陳侯于侈，伐鄭。

桓公十六年

十有六年春，正月，公會宋公、蔡侯、衛侯于曹。

夏，四月，公會宋公、衛侯、陳侯、蔡侯伐鄭。

秋，七月，公至自伐鄭。

冬，城向。十有一月，衛侯朔出奔齊。〔衛侯朔何以名？絕。曷為絕之？得罪于天子也。其得罪于天子奈何？見使守衛朔，而不能使衛小眾，越在岱陰齊。屬負茲舍，不即罪爾。〕

桓公十七年

十有七年春，正月丙辰，公會齊侯、紀侯盟于黃。

二月丙午，公及邾婁儀父盟于趡。

五月丙午，及齊師戰于奚。

六月丁丑，蔡侯封人卒。

秋，八月，蔡季自陳歸于蔡。癸巳，葬蔡桓侯。及宋人、衛人伐邾婁。

冬，十月朔，日有食之。

桓公十八年

十有八年春，王正月，公會齊侯于濼。公與夫人姜氏遂如齊。〔公何以不言及夫人？夫人外也。夫人外者何？內辭也，其實夫人外公也。〕

夏，四月丙子，公薨于齊。丁酉，公之喪至自齊。

秋，七月。

冬，十有二月己丑，葬我君桓公。〔賊未討，何以書葬？讎在外也。讎在外則何以書葬？君子辭也。〕

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莊公

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莊公元年

元年春，王正月。公何以不言即位？〔《春秋》君弒，子不言即位。君弒則子何以不言即位？隱之也。孰隱？隱子也。〕

三月，夫人孫于齊。〔孫者何？孫猶孫也。內諱奔謂之孫。夫人固在齊矣，其言孫于齊何？念母也。正月以存君，念母以首事。夫人何以不稱姜氏？貶。曷為貶？與弒公也。其與弒公奈何？夫人譖公於齊侯，公曰：「同非吾子，齊侯之子也。」齊侯怒，與之飲酒。於其出焉，使公子彭生送之。於其乘焉，搚干而殺之。念母者，所善也，則曷為於其念母焉貶？不與念母也。〕

夏，單伯逆王姬。〔單伯者何？吾大夫之命乎天子者也。何以不稱使？天子召而使之也。逆之者何？使我主之也。曷為使我主之？天子嫁女乎諸侯，必使諸侯同姓者主之。諸侯嫁女于大夫，必使大夫同姓者主之。〕

筑王姬之館于外。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？筑之，禮也；于外，非禮也。于外何以非禮？筑于外，非禮也。其筑之何以禮？主王姬者必為之改筑。主王姬者曷為必為之改筑？於路寢則不可，小寢則嫌，群公子之舍則以卑矣，其道必為之改筑者也。〕

冬，十月乙亥，陳侯林卒。〔王使榮叔來錫桓公命。錫者何？賜也。命者何？加我服也。其言桓公何？追命也。〕

王姬歸於齊。〔何以書？我主之也。〕

齊師遷紀、郱、鄑、郚。〔遷之者何？取之也。取之則曷為不言取之也？為襄公諱也。外取邑不書，此何以書？大之也。何大爾？自是始滅也。〕

莊公二年

二年春，王二月，葬陳莊公。

夏，公子慶父帥師伐於余丘。〔於余丘者何？邾婁之邑也。曷為不系乎邾婁？國之也。曷為國之？君存焉爾。〕

秋，七月，齊王姬卒。〔外夫人不卒，此何以卒？錄焉爾。曷為錄焉爾？我主之也。〕

冬，十有二月，夫人姜氏會齊侯於郜。乙酉，宋公馮卒。

莊公三年

三年春，王正月，溺會齊師伐衛。〔溺者何？吾大夫之未命者也。〕

夏，四月，葬宋莊公。

葬桓王。〔此未有言崩者，何以書葬？蓋改葬也。〕

秋，紀季以酅入于齊。〔紀季者何？紀侯之弟也。何以不名？賢也。何賢乎紀季？服罪也。其服罪奈何？魯子曰：「請後五廟以存姑姊妹。」〕

冬，公次于郎。〔其言公次于郎何？刺欲救紀而後不能也。〕

莊公四年

四年春，王二月，夫人姜氏饗齊侯于祝丘。三月，紀伯姬卒。

夏，齊侯、陳侯、鄭伯遇于垂。

紀侯大去其國。〔大去者何？滅也。孰滅之？齊滅之。曷為不言齊滅之？為襄公諱也。《春秋》為賢諱。何賢乎襄公？復讎也。何讎爾？遠祖也。哀公亨乎周，紀侯譖之。以襄公之為於此焉者，事祖禰之心盡矣。盡者何？襄公將復讎乎紀，卜之曰：「師喪分焉。寡人死之，不為不吉也。」遠祖者，幾世乎？九世矣。九世猶可以復讎乎？雖百世可也。家亦可乎？曰：不可。國何以可？國君一體也；先君之恥猶今君之恥也，今君之恥猶先君之恥也。國君何以為一體？國君以國為體，諸侯世，故國君為一體也。今紀無罪，此非怒與？曰：非也。古者有明天子，則紀侯必誅，必無紀者。紀侯之不誅，至今有紀者，猶無明天子也。古者諸侯必有會聚之事、相朝聘之道，號辭必稱先君以相接，然則齊、紀無說焉，不可以并立乎天下。故將去紀侯者，不得不去紀也。有明天子，則襄公得為若行乎？曰：不得也。不得則襄公曷為為之？上無天子，下無方伯，緣恩疾者可也。〕

六月乙丑，齊侯葬紀伯姬。〔外夫人不書葬，此何以書？隱之也。何隱爾？其國亡矣，徒葬於齊爾。此復讎也，曷為葬之？滅其可滅，葬其可葬。此其為可葬奈何？復讎者非將殺之，逐之也。以為雖遇紀侯之殯，亦將葬之也。〕

秋，七月。

冬，公及齊人狩於郜。〔公曷為與微者狩？齊侯也。齊侯則其稱人何？諱與讎狩也。前此者有事矣，後此者有事矣，則曷為讀於此焉譏？於讎者將壹譏而已，故擇其重者而譏焉，莫重乎其與讎狩也。於讎者則曷為將壹譏而已？讎者無時，焉可與通；通則為大譏，不可勝譏，故將壹譏而已，其餘從同。〕

莊公五年

五年春，王正月。

夏，夫人姜氏如齊師。

秋，倪黎來來朝。〔倪者何？小邾婁也。小邾婁則曷為謂之倪？未能以其名通也。黎來者何？名也。其名何？微國也。〕

冬，公會齊人、宋人、陳人、蔡人，伐衛。〔此伐衛何？納朔也。曷為不言納衛侯朔？辟王也。〕

莊公六年

六年春，王三月，王人子突救衛。〔王人者何？微者也。子突者何？貴也。貴則其稱人何？系諸人也。曷為系諸人？王人耳。〕

夏，六月，衛侯朔入於衛。〔衛侯朔何以名？絕。曷為絕之？犯命也。其言入何？篡辭也。〕

秋，公至自伐衛。〔曷為或言致會？或言致伐？得意致會，不得意致伐。衛侯朔入於衛，何以致伐？不敢勝天子也。〕

螟。

冬，齊人來歸衛寶。〔此衛寶也，則齊人曷為來歸之？衛人歸之也。衛人歸之，則其稱齊人何？讓乎我也。其讓乎我奈何？齊侯曰：「此非寡人之力，魯侯之力也。」〕

莊公七年

七年春，夫人姜氏會齊侯於防。

夏，四月，辛卯夜，恒星不見，夜中星霣如雨。〔恒星者何？列星也。列星不見，則何以知？夜之中星反也。如雨者何？如雨者非雨也。非雨則曷為謂之如雨？不修《春秋》曰：「雨星不及地尺而復。」君子修之曰：「星霣如雨。」何以書？記異也。〕

秋，大水。無麥、苗。〔無苗，則曷為先言無麥，而後言無苗？一災不書，待無麥，然後書無苗。何以書？記災也。〕

冬，夫人姜氏會齊侯於穀。

莊公八年

八年春，王正月，師次于郎，以俟陳人、蔡人。〔次不言俟，此其言俟何？托不得已也。〕

甲午，祠兵。〔祠兵者何？出曰祠兵，入曰振旅，其禮一也，皆習戰也。何言乎祠兵？為久也。曷為為久？吾將以甲午之日，然後祠兵於是。〕

夏，師及齊師圍成，成降于齊師。〔成者何？盛也。盛則曷為謂之成？諱滅同姓也。曷為不言降吾師？辟之也〕。

秋，師還。〔還者何？善辭也。此滅同姓何善爾？病之也，曰：師病矣！曷為病之？非師之罪也！〕

冬，十有一月癸未，齊無知弒其君諸兒。

莊公九年

九年春，齊人殺無知。公及齊大夫盟于暨。〔公曷為與大夫盟？齊無君也。然則何以不名？其諱與大夫盟也，使若眾然。〕

夏，公伐齊納糾。〔納者何？入辭也。其言伐之何？伐而言納者，猶不能納也。糾者何？公子糾也。何以不稱公子？君前臣名也。〕

齊小白入于齊。〔曷為以國氏？當國也。其言入何？篡辭也。〕

秋，七月丁酉，葬齊襄公。

八月庚申，及齊師戰于乾時，我師敗績。〔內不言敗，此其言敗何？伐敗也。曷為伐敗？復讎也。此復讎乎大國，曷為使微者？公也。公則曷為不言公？不與公復讎也。曷為不與公復讎？復讎者在下也。〕

九月，齊人取子糾殺之。〔其言取之何？內辭也；脅我，使我殺之也。其稱子糾何？貴也。其貴奈何？宜為君者也。〕

冬，浚洙。〔洙者何？水也。浚之者何？深之也。曷為深之？畏齊也。曷為畏齊也？辭殺子糾也。〕

莊公十年

十年春，王正月，公敗齊師于長勺。

二月，公侵宋。〔曷為或言侵？或言伐？粗者曰侵，精者曰伐。戰不言伐，圍不言戰，入不言圍，滅不言入，書其重者也。〕

三月，宋人遷宿。〔曷遷之者何？不通也，以地遷之也。子沈子曰：「不通者，蓋因而臣之也。」〕

夏，六月，齊師、宋師次于郎，公敗宋師于乘丘。〔其言次于郎何？伐也。伐則其言次何？齊與伐而不與戰，故言伐也。我能敗之，故言次也。〕

秋，九月，荊敗蔡師于莘，以蔡侯獻舞歸。〔荊者何？州名也。州不若國，國不若氏，氏不若人，人不若名，名不若字，字不若子。蔡侯獻舞何以名？絕。曷為絕之？獲也。曷為不言其獲？不與夷狄之獲中國也。〕

冬，十月，齊師滅譚，譚子奔莒。〔何以不言出？國以滅矣，無所出也。〕

莊公十一年

十有一年春，王正月。

夏，五月戊寅，公敗宋師于鄑。

秋，宋大水。何以書？〔記災也。外災不書，此何以書？及我也。〕

冬，王姬歸于齊。〔何以書？過我也。〕

莊公十二年

十有二年春，王三月，紀叔姬歸于酅。〔其言歸于酅何？隱之也。何隱爾？其國亡矣，徒歸于叔爾也。〕

夏，四月。

秋，八月甲午，宋萬弒其君接及其大夫仇牧。〔及者何？累也。弒君多矣，舍此無累者乎？孔父、荀息皆累也。舍孔父、荀息，無累者乎？曰：有。有則此何以書？賢也。何賢乎仇牧？仇牧可謂不畏強禦矣！其不畏強禦奈何？萬嘗與莊公戰，獲乎莊公；莊公歸，散舍諸宮中，數月，然後歸之。歸反為大夫於宋。與閔公博，婦人皆在側。萬曰：「甚矣，魯侯之淑，魯侯之美也！天下諸侯宜為君者，唯魯侯爾！」閔公矜此婦人，妒其言，顧曰：「此虜也！爾虜焉故，魯侯之美惡乎至？」萬怒，搏閔公，絕其脰。仇牧聞君弒，趨而至，遇之于門，手劍而叱之。萬辟殺仇牧，碎其首，齒著乎門闔。仇牧可謂不畏強禦矣！〕

冬，十月，宋萬出奔陳。

莊公十三年

十有三年春，齊侯、宋人、陳人、蔡人、邾婁人會于北杏。

夏，六月，齊人滅遂。

秋，七月。

冬，公會齊侯，盟于柯。〔何以不日？易也。其易奈何？桓之盟不日，其會不致，信之也。其不日何以始乎此？莊公將會乎桓，曹子進曰：「君之意何如？」莊公曰：「寡人之生，則不若死矣！」曹子曰：「然則君請當其君，臣請當其臣。」莊公曰：「諾。」於是會乎桓。莊公升壇，曹子手劍而從之。管子進曰：「君何求乎？」曹子曰：「城壞壓竟，君不圖與？」管子曰：「然則君將何求？」曹子曰：「愿請汶陽之田。」管子顧曰：「君許諾。」桓公曰：「諾。」曹子請盟，桓公下與之盟。已盟，曹子摽劍而去之。要盟可犯，而桓公不欺；曹子可讎，而桓公不怨。桓公之信著乎天下，自柯之盟始焉。〕

莊公十四年

十有四年春，齊人、陳人、曹人伐宋。

夏，單伯會伐宋。〔其言會伐宋何？後會也。〕

秋，七月，荊入蔡。

冬，單伯會齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯于鄄。

莊公十五年

十有五年春，齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯會于鄄。

夏，夫人姜氏如齊。

秋，宋人、齊人、邾婁人伐兒。鄭人侵宋。

冬，十月。

莊公十六年

十有六年春，王正月。

夏，宋人、齊人、衛人伐鄭。

荊伐鄭。

冬，十有二月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯、滑伯、滕子，同盟于幽。〔同盟者何？同欲也。〕

邾婁子克卒。

莊公十七年

十有七年春，齊人執鄭瞻。〔鄭瞻者何？鄭之微者也。此鄭之微者，何言乎齊人執之？書甚佞也。〕

夏，齊人瀸于遂。〔瀸者何？瀸，積也，眾殺戍者也。〕

秋，鄭瞻自齊逃來。〔何以書？書甚佞也。曰：佞人來矣！佞人來矣！〕

冬，多糜。〔何以書？記異也。〕

莊公十八年

十有八年春，王三月，日有食之。

夏，公追戎于濟西。〔此未有言伐者，其言追何？大其為中國追也。此未有伐中國者，則其言為中國追何？大其未至而豫禦之也。其言于濟西何？大之也。〕

秋，有蜮。〔何以書？記異也。〕

冬，十月。

莊公十九年

十有九年春，王正月。

夏，四月。

秋，公子結媵陳人之婦于鄄，遂及齊侯、宋公盟。〔媵者何？諸侯娶一國，則貳國往媵之，以侄娣從。侄者何？兄之子也。娣者何？弟也。諸侯壹聘九女，諸侯不再娶。媵不書，此何以書？為其有遂事書。大夫無遂事，此其言遂何？聘禮：大夫受命不受辭，出竟有可以安社稷、利國家者，則專之可也。〕

夫人姜氏如莒。

冬，齊人、宋人、陳人伐我西鄙。

莊公廿年

二十年春，王二月，夫人姜氏如莒。

夏，齊大災。〔大災者何？大瘠也。大瘠者何？癘也。何以書？記災也。外災不書，此何以書？及我也。〕

秋，七月。

冬，齊人伐戎。

莊公廿一年

二十有一年春，王正月。

夏，五月辛酉，鄭伯突卒。

秋，七月戊戌，夫人姜氏薨。

冬，十有二月，葬鄭厲公。

莊公廿二年

二十有二年春，王正月，肆大省。〔肆者何？跌也。大省者何？災省也。肆大省，何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始忌省也。〕

癸丑，葬我小君文姜。〔文姜者何？莊公之母也。〕

陳人殺其公子禦寇。

夏，五月。

秋，七月丙申，及齊高傒盟于防。〔齊高傒者何？貴大夫也。曷為就吾微者而盟？公也。公則曷為不言公？諱與大夫盟也。〕

冬，公如齊納幣。納幣不書，此何以書？〔譏。何譏爾？親納幣，非禮也。〕

莊公廿三年

二十有三年春，公至自齊。〔桓之盟不日，其會不致，信之也；此之桓國何以致？危之也。何危爾？公一陳佗也。〕

蔡叔來聘。

夏，公如齊觀社。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？諸侯越竟觀社，非禮也。〕

公至自齊。

荊人來聘。〔荊何以稱人？始能聘也。〕

公及齊侯遇于穀。蕭叔朝公。〔其言朝公何？公在外也。〕

秋，丹桓宮楹。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？丹桓宮楹，非禮也。〕

冬，十有一月，曹伯射姑卒。

十有二月甲寅，公會齊侯盟于扈。〔桓之盟不日，此何以日？危之也。何危爾？我貳也。魯子曰：「我貳者，非彼然，我然也。」〕

莊公廿四年

二十有四年春，王三月，刻桓宮桷。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？刻桓宮桷，非禮也。〕

葬曹莊公。

夏，公如齊逆女。〔何以書？親迎禮也。〕

秋，公至自齊。八月丁丑，夫人姜氏入。〔其言入何？難也。其言日何？難也。其難奈何？夫人不僂不可使入；與公有所約，然後入。〕

戊寅，大夫、宗婦覿用幣。〔宗婦者何？大夫之妻也。覿者何？見也。用者何？用者不宜用也；見用幣，非禮也。然則曷用？棗、栗云乎！腶、修云乎！〕

大水。

冬，戎侵曹，曹羈出奔陳。〔曹羈者何？曹大夫也。曹無大夫，此何以書？賢也。何賢乎曹羈？戎將侵曹，曹羈諫曰：「戎眾以無義，君請勿自敵也。」曹伯曰：「不可。」三諫，不從，遂去之，故君子以為得君臣之義也。〕

赤歸于曹郭公。〔赤者何？曹無赤者，蓋郭公也。郭公者何？失地之君也。〕

莊公廿五年

二十有五年春，陳侯使女叔來聘。

夏，五月癸丑，衛侯朔卒。

六月辛未朔，日有食之，鼓、用牲于社。〔食之則曷為鼓、用牲于社？求乎陰之道也，以朱絲營社，或曰脅之，或曰闇之，恐人犯之，故營之。〕

伯姬歸于杞。

秋，大水，鼓、用牲于社于門。〔其言于社于門何？于社，禮也；于門，非禮也。〕

冬，公子友如陳。

莊公廿六年

二十有六年春，公伐戎。

夏，公至自伐戎。

曹殺其大夫。〔何以不名？眾也。曷為眾殺之？不死于曹君者也。君死乎位曰滅，曷為不言其滅？為曹羈諱也。此蓋戰也，何以不言戰？為曹羈諱也。〕

秋，公會宋人、齊人伐徐。

冬，十有二月癸亥朔，日有食之。

莊公廿七年

二十有七年春，公會齊伯姬于洮。

夏，六月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、鄭伯，同盟于幽。

秋，公子友如陳，葬原仲。〔原仲者何？陳大夫也。大夫不書葬，此何以書？通乎季子之私行也。何通乎季子之私行？辟內難也。君子辟內難而不辟外難。內難者何？公子慶父、公子牙、公子友皆莊公之母弟也。公子慶父、公子牙通乎夫人以脅公，季子起而治之，則不得與于國政，坐而視之則親親。因不忍見也，故於是復請至于陳，而葬原仲也。〕

冬，杞伯姬來。〔其言來何？直來曰來，大歸曰來歸。〕

莒慶來逆叔姬。〔莒慶者何？莒大夫也。莒無大夫，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？大夫越竟逆女，非禮也。〕

杞伯來朝。

公會齊侯于城濮。

莊公廿八年

二十有八年春，王三月甲寅，齊人伐衛，衛人及齊人戰，衛人敗績。〔伐不日，此何以日？至之日也。戰不言伐，此其言伐何？至之日也。《春秋》伐者為客，伐者為主，故使衛主之也。曷為使衛主之？衛未有罪爾。敗者稱師，衛何以不稱師？未得乎師也。〕

夏，四月丁未，邾婁子瑣卒。

秋，荊伐鄭，公會齊人、宋人、邾婁人救鄭。

冬，筑微。大無麥、禾。〔既見無麥、禾矣，曷為先言筑微，而後言無麥、禾？諱以兇年造邑也。〕

臧孫辰告糴于齊。〔告糴者何？請糴也。何以不稱使？以為臧孫辰之私行也。曷為以為臧孫辰之私行？君子之為國也，必有三年之委；一年不熟，告糴，譏也。〕

莊公廿九年

二十有九年春，新延廄。〔新延廄者何？修舊也。修舊不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？兇年不修。〕

夏，鄭人侵許。

秋，有蜚。〔何以書？記異也。〕

冬，十有二月，紀叔姬卒。

城諸及防。

莊公卅年

三十年春，王正月。

夏，師次于成。

秋，七月，齊人降鄣。〔鄣者何？紀之遺邑也。降之者何？取之也。取之則曷為不言取之？為桓公諱也。外取邑不書，此何以書？盡也。〕

八月癸亥，葬紀叔姬。〔外夫人不書葬，此何以書？隱之也。何隱爾？其國亡矣，徒葬乎叔爾。〕

九月庚午朔，日有食之，鼓、用牲于社。

冬，公及齊侯遇于魯濟。

齊人伐山戎。〔此齊侯也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？子司馬子曰：「蓋以操之為已蹙以矣！」此蓋戰也，何以不言戰？《春秋》敵者言戰，桓公之與戎狄，驅之爾。〕

莊公卅一年

三十有一年春，筑臺于郎。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？臨民之所漱浣也。〕

夏，四月，薛伯卒。

筑臺于薛。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？遠也。〕

六月，齊侯來獻戎捷。〔齊，大國也，曷為親來獻戎捷？威我也。其威我奈何？旗獲而過我也。〕

秋，筑臺于秦。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？臨國也。〕

冬，不雨。〔何以書？記異也。〕

莊公卅二年

三十有二年春，城小穀。

夏，宋公、齊侯遇于梁丘。

秋，七月癸巳，公子牙卒。〔何以不稱弟？殺也。殺則曷為不言刺？為季子諱殺也。曷為為季子諱殺？季子之遏惡也，不以為國獄，緣季子之心而為之諱。季子之遏惡奈何？莊公并將死，以病召季子，季子至而授之以國政，曰：「寡人即不起此病，吾將焉致乎魯國？」季子曰：「般也存，君何憂焉？」公曰：「庸得若是乎？牙謂我曰：『魯一生一及，君已知之矣。』慶父也存。」季子曰：「夫何敢？是將為亂乎！夫何敢！」俄而，牙弒械成。季子和藥而飲之，曰：「公子從吾言而飲此，則必可以無為天下戮笑，必有後乎魯國。不從吾言而不飲此，則必為天下戮笑，必無後乎魯國。」於是從其言而飲之，飲之無傫氏，至乎王堤而死。公子牙今將爾，辭曷為與親弒者同？君親無將，將而誅焉。然則善之與？曰：然。殺世子母弟，直稱君者，甚之也。季子殺母兄，何善爾？誅不得辟兄，君臣之義也。然則曷為不直誅，而酖之？行諸乎兄，隱而逃之，使托若以疾死然，親親之道也。〕

八月癸亥，公薨于路寢。〔路寢者何？正寢也。〕

冬，十月乙未，子般卒。〔子卒云子卒，此其稱子般卒何？君存稱世子，君薨稱子某，既葬稱子，逾年稱公。子般卒，何以不書葬？未逾年之君也。有子則廟，廟則書葬；無子不廟，不廟則不書葬。〕

公子慶父如齊。狄伐邢。

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閔公元年

元年春，王正月。〔公何以不言即位？繼弒君不言即位。孰繼？繼子般也。孰弒子般？慶父也。殺公子牙，今將爾，季子不免。慶父弒君，何以不誅？將而不免遏惡也。既而不可及，因獄有所歸，不探其情而誅焉，親親之道也。惡乎歸獄？歸獄仆人鄧扈樂。曷為歸獄仆人鄧扈樂？莊公存之時，樂曾淫于宮中，子般執而鞭之。莊公死，慶父謂樂曰：「般之辱爾，國人莫不知，盍弒之矣？」使弒子般，然後誅鄧扈樂而歸獄焉，季子至而不變也。〕

齊人救邢。夏，六月辛酉，葬我君莊公。

秋，八月，公及齊侯盟于洛姑。季子來歸。〔其稱季子何？賢也。其言來歸何？喜之也。〕

冬，齊仲孫來。〔齊仲孫者何？公子慶父也。公子慶父，則曷為謂之齊仲孫？系之齊也。曷為系之齊？外之也。曷為外之？春秋為尊者諱，為親者諱，為賢者諱。子女子曰：「以『春秋』為《春秋》，齊無仲孫，其諸吾仲孫與？」〕

閔公二年

二年春，王正月，齊人遷陽。

夏，五月乙酉，吉禘于莊公。〔其言吉何？言吉者，未可以吉也。曷為未可以吉？未三年也。三年矣，曷為謂之未三年？三年之喪，實以二十五月。其言于莊公何？未可以稱宮廟也。曷為未可以稱宮廟？在三年之中矣。吉禘于莊公，何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始不三年也。〕

秋，八月辛丑，公薨。〔公薨何以不地？隱之也。何隱爾？弒也。孰弒之？慶父也。殺公子牙，今將爾，季子不免。慶父弒二君，何以不誅？將而不免，遏惡也；既而不可及，緩追逸賊，親親之道也。〕

九月，夫人姜氏孫于邾婁。

公子慶父出奔莒。

冬，齊高子來盟。〔高子者何？齊大夫也。何以不稱使？我無君也。然則何以不名？喜之也。何喜爾？正我也。其正我奈何？莊公死，子般弒，閔公弒，比三君死，曠年無君。設以齊取魯，曾不興師，徒以言而已矣。桓公使高子將南陽之甲，立僖公而城魯，或曰自鹿門至于爭門者是也，或曰自爭門至于吏門者是也。魯人至今以為美談，曰：「猶望高子也。」〕

十有二月，狄入衛。鄭棄其師。〔鄭棄其師者何？惡其將也。鄭伯惡高克，使之將逐而不納，棄師之道也。〕

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僖公

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僖公元年

元年春，王正月。〔公何以不言即位？繼弒君，子不言即位。此非子也，其稱子何？臣、子一例也。〕

齊師、宋師、曹師次于聶北，救邢。〔救不言次，此其言次何？不及事也。不及事者何？邢已亡矣。孰亡之？蓋狄滅之。曷為不言狄滅之？為桓公諱也。曷為為桓公諱？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，桓公不能救，則桓公恥之。曷為先言次而後言救？君也。君則其稱師何？不與諸侯專封也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？諸侯之義不得專封也。諸侯之義不得專封，則其曰實與之何？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，力能救之，則救之可也。〕

夏，六月，邢遷于陳儀。〔遷者何？其意也。遷之者何？非其意也。〕

齊師、宋師、曹師城邢。〔此一事也，曷為復言齊師、宋師、曹師？不復言師，則無以知其為一事也。〕

秋，七月戊辰，夫人姜氏薨于夷，齊人以歸。〔夷者何？齊地也。齊地，則其言齊人以歸何？夫人薨于夷，則齊人以歸。夫人薨于夷，則齊人曷為以歸？桓公召而縊殺之。〕

楚人伐鄭。八月，公會齊侯、宋公、鄭伯、曹伯、邾婁人于朾。九月，公敗邾婁師于纓。

冬，十月壬午，公子友帥師，敗莒師于犁，獲莒挐。〔莒挐者何？莒大夫也。莒無大夫，此何以書？大季子之獲也。何大乎季子之獲？季子治內難以正，禦外難以正。其禦外難以正奈何？公子慶父弒閔公，走而之莒，莒人逐之，將由乎齊，齊人不納，卻反舍于汶水之上，使公子奚斯入請。季子曰：「公子不可以入，入則殺矣！」奚斯不忍反命于慶父，自南涘，北面而哭。慶父聞之曰：「嘻！此奚斯之聲也，諾已。」曰：「吾不得入矣！」於是抗輈經而死。莒人聞之曰：「吾已得子之賊矣！」以求賂乎魯。魯人不與，為是興師而伐魯，季子待之以偏戰。〕

十有二月丁巳，夫人氏之喪至自齊。〔夫人何以不稱姜氏？貶。曷為貶？與弒公也。然則曷為不於弒焉貶？貶必於其重者，莫重乎其以喪至也。〕

僖公二年

二年春，王正月，城楚丘。〔孰城之？城衛也。曷為不言城衛？滅也。孰滅之？蓋狄滅之。曷為不言狄滅之？為桓公諱也。曷為為桓公諱？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，桓公不能救，則桓公恥之也。然則孰城之？桓公城之。曷為不言桓公城之？不與諸侯專封也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？諸侯之義，不得專封。諸侯之義不得專封，則其曰實與之何？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，力能救之，則救之可也。〕

夏，五月辛巳，葬我小君哀姜。〔哀姜者何？莊公之夫人也。〕

虞師、晉師滅夏陽。〔虞，微國也，曷為序乎大國之上？使虞首惡也。曷為使虞首惡？虞受賂，假滅國者道，以取亡焉。其受賂奈何？獻公朝諸大夫而問焉，曰：「寡人夜者寢而不寐，其意也何？」諸大夫有進對者曰：「寢不安與？其諸侍御有不在側者與？」獻公不應。荀息進曰：「虞郭見與？」獻公揖而進之，遂與之入而謀曰：「吾欲攻郭，則虞救之；攻虞，則郭救之，如之何？愿與子慮之。」荀息對曰：「君若用臣之謀，則今日取郭，而明日取虞爾，君何憂焉？」獻公曰：「然則奈何？」荀息曰：「請以屈產之乘與垂棘之白璧，往必可得也。則寶出之內藏，藏之外府；馬出之內廄，系之外廄爾，君何喪焉？」獻公曰：「諾。雖然，宮之奇存焉，如之何？」荀息曰：「宮之奇知則知矣！雖然，虞公貪而好寶，見寶必不從其言，請終以往。」於是終以往，虞公見寶許諾。宮之奇果諫：「記曰：『唇亡則齒寒。』虞、郭之相救，非相為賜，則晉今日取郭，而明日虞從而亡爾。君請勿許也。」虞公不從其言，終假之道以取郭。還，四年，反取虞。虞公抱寶牽馬而至。荀息見曰：「臣之謀何如？」獻公曰：「子之謀則已行矣，寶則吾寶也，雖然，吾馬之齒亦已長矣！」蓋戲之也。夏陽者何？郭之邑也。曷為不系于郭？國之也。曷為國之？君存焉爾。〕

秋，九月，齊侯、宋公、江人、黃人盟于貫澤。〔江人、黃人者何？遠國之辭也。遠國至矣，則中國曷為獨言齊、宋至爾？大國言齊、宋，遠國言江、黃，則以其餘為莫敢不至也。〕

冬，十月，不雨。〔何以書？記異也。〕

楚人侵鄭。

僖公三年

三年春，王正月，不雨。

夏，四月，不雨。〔何以書？記異也。〕

徐人取舒。〔其言取之何？易也。〕

六月，雨。〔其言六月雨何？上雨而不甚也。〕

秋，齊侯、宋公、江人、黃人會于陽穀。〔此大會也，曷為末言爾？桓公曰：「無障谷，無貯粟，無易樹子，無以妾為妻。」〕

冬，公子友如齊蒞盟。〔蒞盟者何？往盟乎彼也。其言來盟者何？來盟于我也。〕

楚人伐鄭。

僖公四年

四年春，王正月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯侵蔡，蔡潰。〔潰者何？下叛上也。國曰潰，邑曰叛。〕

遂伐楚，次于陘。〔其言次于陘何？有俟也。孰俟？俟屈完也。〕

夏，許男新臣卒。楚屈完來盟于師，盟于召陵。〔屈完者何？楚大夫也。何以不稱使？尊屈完也。曷為尊屈完？以當桓公也。其言盟于師、盟于召陵何？師在召陵也。師在召陵，則曷為再言盟？喜服楚也。何言乎喜服楚？楚有王者則後服，無王者則先叛。夷狄也，而亟病中國，南夷與北狄交，中國不絕若線。桓公救中國，而攘夷狄，卒帖荊，以此為王者之事也。其言來何？與桓為主也。前此者有事矣，後此者有事矣，則曷為獨於此焉？與桓公為主，序績也。〕

齊人執陳袁濤涂。〔濤涂之罪何？辟軍之道也。其辟軍之道奈何？濤涂謂桓公曰：「君既服南夷矣，何不還師濱海而東，服東夷且歸？」桓公曰：「諾。」於是還師濱海而東，大陷于沛澤之中。顧而執濤涂。執者曷為或稱侯？或稱人？稱侯而執者，伯討也。稱人而執者，非伯討也。此執有罪，何以不得為伯討？古者周公東征則西國怨，西征則東國怨。桓公假涂于陳而伐楚，則陳人不欲其反由己者，師不正故也。不修其師而執濤涂，古人之討，則不然也。〕

秋，及江人、黃人伐陳。〔八月，公至自伐楚。楚已服矣，何以致伐楚？叛盟也。〕

葬許繆公。冬，十有二月，公孫慈帥師會齊人、宋人、衛人、鄭人、許人、曹人侵陳。

僖公五年

五年春，晉侯殺其世子申生。〔曷為直稱晉侯以殺？殺世子母弟直稱君者，甚之也。〕

杞伯姬來朝其子。〔其言來朝其子何？內辭也，與其子俱來朝也。〕

夏，公孫慈如牟。公及齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯會王世子于首戴。〔曷為殊會王世子？世子貴也。世子，猶世世子也。〕

秋，八月，諸侯盟于首戴。〔諸侯何以不序？一事而再見者，前目而後凡也。〕

鄭伯逃歸不盟。〔其言逃歸不盟者何？不可使盟也。不可使盟，則其言逃歸何？魯子曰：「蓋不以寡犯眾也。」〕

楚人滅弦。弦子奔黃。

九月戊申朔，日有食之。

冬，晉人執虞公。〔虞已滅矣，其言執之何？不與滅也。曷為不與滅？滅者亡國之善辭也。滅者，上下之同力者也。〕

僖公六年

六年春，王正月。

夏，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、曹伯伐鄭，圍新城。〔邑不言圍，此其言圍何？強也。〕

秋，楚人圍許，諸侯遂救許。

冬，公至自伐鄭。

僖公七年

七年春，齊人伐鄭。

夏，小邾婁子來朝。鄭殺其大夫申侯。〔其稱國以殺何？稱國以殺者，君殺大夫之辭也。〕

秋，七月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳世子款、鄭世子華，盟于甯毋。

曹伯般卒。

公子友如齊。

冬，葬曹昭公。

僖公八年

八年春，王正月，公會王人、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、許男、曹伯、陳世子款、鄭世子華，盟于洮。〔王人者何？微者也。曷為序乎諸侯之上？先王命也。〕

鄭伯乞盟。〔乞盟者何？處其所而請與也。其處其所而請與奈何？蓋酌之也。〕

夏，狄伐晉。

秋，七月，禘于太廟，用致夫人。〔用者何？用者不宜用也。致者何？致者不宜致也。禘用致夫人，非禮也。夫人何以不稱姜氏？貶。曷為貶？譏以妾為妻也。其言以妾為妻奈何？蓋脅于齊媵女之先至者也。〕

冬，十有二月丁未，天王崩。

僖公九年

九年春，王三月丁丑，宋公禦說卒。〔何以不書葬？為襄公諱也。〕

夏，公會宰周公、齊侯、宋子、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯于葵丘。〔宰周公者何？天子之為政者也。〕

秋，七月乙酉，伯姬卒。〔此未適人，何以卒？許嫁矣。婦人許嫁，字而笄之，死則以成人之喪治之。〕

九月戊辰，諸侯盟于葵丘。〔桓之盟不日，此何以日？危之也。何危爾？貫澤之會，桓公有憂中國之心，不召而至者，江人、黃人也。葵丘之會，桓公震而矜之，叛者九國。震之者何？猶曰振振然。矜之者何？猶曰莫若我也。〕

甲戌，晉侯詭諸卒。冬，晉里克弒其君之子奚齊。〔此未逾年之君，其言弒其君之子奚齊何？殺未逾年君之號也。〕

僖公十年

十年春，王正月，公如齊。狄滅溫。溫子奔衛。

晉里克弒其君卓子及其大夫荀息。〔及者何？累也。弒君多矣，舍此無累者乎？曰：有，孔父、仇牧皆累也。舍孔父、仇牧無累者乎？曰：有。有則此何以書？賢也。何賢乎荀息？荀息可謂不食其言矣。其不食其言奈何？奚齊、卓子者，驪姬之子也，荀息傅焉。驪姬者，國色也。獻公愛之甚，欲立其子，於是殺世子申生。申生者，里克傅之。獻公病將死，謂荀息曰：「士何如則可謂之信矣？」荀息對曰：「使死者反生，生者不愧乎其言，則可謂信矣。」獻公死，奚齊立。里克謂荀息曰：「君殺正而立不正，廢長而立幼，如之何？愿與子慮之。」荀息曰：「君嘗訊臣矣，臣對曰：『使死者反生，生者不愧乎其言，則可謂信矣。』」里克知其不可與謀，退，弒奚齊。荀息立卓子，里克弒卓子，荀息死之。荀息可謂不食其言矣！〕

夏，齊侯、許男伐北戎。晉殺其大夫里克。〔里克弒二君，則曷為不以討賊之辭言之？惠公之大夫也。然則孰立惠公？里克也。里克弒奚齊、卓子，逆惠公而入。里克立惠公，則惠公曷為殺之？惠公曰：「爾既殺夫二孺子矣，又將圖寡人，為爾君者，不亦病乎？」於是殺之。然則曷為不言惠公之入？晉之不言出入者，踴為文公諱也。齊小白入于齊，則曷為不為桓公諱？桓公之享國也長，美見乎天下，故不為之諱本惡也。文公之享國也短，美未見乎天下，故為之諱本惡也。〕

秋，七月。

冬，大雨雹。〔何以書？記異也。〕

僖公十一年

十有一年春，晉殺其大夫丕鄭父。

夏，公及夫人姜氏會齊侯于陽穀。

秋，八月，大雩。

冬，楚人伐黃。

僖公十二年

十有二年春，王三月庚午，日有食之。

夏，楚人滅黃。

秋，七月。

冬，十有二月丁丑，陳侯處臼卒。

僖公十三年

十有三年春，狄侵衛。

夏，四月，葬陳宣公。公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯于鹹。

秋，九月，大雩。

冬，公子友如齊。

僖公十四年

十有四年春，諸侯城緣陵。〔孰城之？城杞也。曷為城杞？滅也。孰滅之？蓋徐、莒脅之。曷為不言徐、莒脅之？為桓公諱也。曷為為桓公諱？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，桓公不能救，則桓公恥之也。然則孰城之？桓公城之。曷為不言桓公城之？不與諸侯專封也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？諸侯之義不得專封也。諸侯之義不得專封，則其曰實與之何？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有相滅亡者，力能救之，則救之可也。〕

夏，六月，季姬及鄫子遇于防，使鄫子來朝。〔鄫子曷為使乎季姬來朝？內辭也。非使來朝，使來請己也。〕

秋，八月辛卯，沙鹿崩。〔沙鹿者何？河上之邑也。此邑也，其言崩何？襲邑也。沙鹿崩，何以書？記異也。外異不書，此何以書？為天下記異也。〕

狄侵鄭。

冬，蔡侯肸卒。

僖公十五年

十有五年春，王正月，公如齊。

楚人伐徐。

三月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯盟于牡丘，遂次于匡。

公孫敖率師及諸侯之大夫救徐。

夏，五月，日有食之。

秋，七月，齊師、曹師伐厲。

八月，螽。

九月，公至自會。〔桓公之會不致，此何以致？久也。〕

季姬歸于鄫。己卯，晦，震夷伯之廟。〔晦者何？冥也。震之者何？雷電擊夷伯之廟者也。夷伯者，曷為者也？季氏之孚也。季氏之孚則微者，其稱夷伯何？大之也。曷為大之？天戒之，故大之也。何以書？記異也。〕

冬，宋人伐曹。楚人敗徐于婁林。

十有一月，壬戌，晉侯及秦伯戰于韓，獲晉侯。〔此偏戰也，何以不言師敗績？君獲，不言師敗績也。〕

僖公十六年

十有六年春，王正月戊申朔，隕石于宋五。是月，六鹢退飛，過宋都。〔曷為先言隕而後言石？隕石記聞，聞其嗔然，視之則石，察之則五。是月者何？僅逮是月也。何以不日？晦日也。晦則何以不言晦？《春秋》不書晦也。朔有事則書，晦雖有事不書。曷為先言六而後言鹢？六鹢退飛，記見也，視之則六，察之則鹢，徐而察之則退飛。五石六鹢，何以書？記異也。外異不書，此何以書？為王者之後，記異也。〕

三月壬申，公子季友卒。〔其稱季友何？賢也。〕

夏，四月丙申，鄫季姬卒。

秋，七月甲子，公孫慈卒。

冬，十有二月，公會齊侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、邢侯、曹伯于淮。

僖公十七年

十有七年春，齊人、徐人伐英氏。

夏，滅項。〔孰滅之？齊滅之。曷為不言齊滅之？為桓公諱也。《春秋》為賢者諱。此滅人之國，何賢爾？君子之惡惡也疾始，善善也樂終。桓公嘗有繼絕，存亡之功，故君子為之諱也。〕

秋，夫人姜氏會齊于卞。

九月，公至自會。

十有二月乙亥，齊侯小白卒。

僖公十八年

十有八年春，王正月，宋公會曹伯、衛人、邾婁人伐齊。

夏，師救齊。五月戊寅，宋師及齊師戰于甗，齊師敗績。〔戰不言伐，此其言伐何？宋公與伐而不與戰，故言伐。《春秋》伐者為客，伐者為主。曷為不使齊主之？與襄公之征齊也。曷為與襄公之征齊？桓公死，豎刁、易牙爭權不葬，為是故伐之也。〕

狄救齊。

秋，八月丁亥，葬齊桓公。

冬，邢人、狄人伐衛。

僖公十九年

十有九年春，王三月，宋人執滕子嬰齊。

夏，六月，宋人、曹人、邾婁人盟于曹南。鄫子會盟于邾婁。〔其言會盟何？後會也。〕

己酉，邾婁人執鄫子用之。〔惡乎用之？用之社也。其用之社奈何？蓋叩其鼻以血社也。〕

秋，宋人圍曹。

衛人伐邢。

冬，公會陳人、蔡人、楚人、鄭人盟于齊。梁亡。〔此未有伐者，其言梁亡何？自亡也。其自亡奈何？魚爛而亡也。〕

僖公廿年

二十年春，新作南門。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？門有古常也。〕

夏，郜子來朝。〔郜子者何？失地之君也。何以不名？兄弟辭也。〕

五月乙巳，西宮災。〔西宮者何？小寢也。小寢則曷為謂之西宮？有西宮則有東宮矣。魯子曰：「以有西宮，亦知諸侯之有三宮也。」西宮災，何以書？記災也。〕

鄭人入滑。

秋，齊人、狄人盟于邢。

冬，楚人伐隨。

僖公廿一年

二十有一年春，狄侵衛。宋人、齊人、楚人盟于鹿上。

夏，大旱。〔何以書？記災也。〕

秋，宋公、楚子、陳侯、蔡侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯會于霍，執宋公以伐宋。〔孰執之？楚子執之。曷為不言楚子執之？不與夷狄之執中國也。〕

冬，公伐邾婁。

楚人使宜申來獻捷。〔此楚子也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？為執宋公貶。曷為為執宋公貶？宋公與楚子期以乘車之會，公子目夷諫曰：「楚，夷國也，強而無義，請君以兵車之會往。」宋公曰：「不可。吾與之約以乘車之會，自我為之，自我墮之，曰不可。」終以乘車之會往，楚人果伏兵車，執宋公以伐宋。宋公謂公子目夷曰：「子歸守國矣。國，子之國也。吾不從子之言，以至乎此。」公子目夷復曰：「君雖不言國，國固臣之國也。」於是歸設守械而守國。楚人謂宋人曰：「子不與我國，吾將殺子君矣。」宋人應之曰：「吾賴社稷之神靈，吾國已有君矣。」楚人知雖殺宋公，猶不得宋國，於是釋宋公。宋公釋乎執，走之衛。公子目夷復曰：「國為君守之，君曷為不入？」然後逆襄公歸。惡乎捷？捷乎宋。曷為不言捷乎宋？為襄公諱也。此圍辭也，曷為不言其圍？為公子目夷諱也。〕

十有二月癸丑，公會諸侯盟于薄。釋宋公。〔執未有言釋之者，此其言釋之何？公與為爾也。公與為爾奈何？公與議爾也。〕

僖公廿二年

二十有二年春，公伐邾婁，取須朐。

夏，宋公、衛侯、許男、滕子伐鄭。

秋，八月丁未，及邾婁人戰于升陘。

冬，十有一月己巳朔，宋公及楚人戰于泓，宋師敗績。〔偏戰者日爾，此其言朔何？《春秋》辭繁而不殺者，正也。何正爾？宋公與楚人期，戰于泓之陽。楚人濟泓而來。有司復曰：「請迨其未畢濟而系之。」宋公曰：「不可。吾聞之也：君子不厄人。吾雖喪國之餘，寡人不忍行也。」既濟，未畢陳，有司復曰：「請迨其未畢陳而擊之。」宋公曰：「不可。吾聞之也：君子不鼓不成列。」已陳，然後襄公鼓之，宋師大敗。故君子大其不鼓不成列，臨大事而不忘大禮，有君而無臣，以為雖文王之戰，亦不過此也。〕

僖公廿三年

二十有三年春，齊侯伐宋圍緡。〔邑不言圍，此其言圍何？疾重故也。〕

夏，五月庚寅，宋公慈父卒。〔何以不書葬？盈乎諱也。〕

秋，楚人伐陳。

冬，十有一月，杞子卒。

僖公廿四年

二十有四年春，王正月。

夏，狄伐鄭。

秋，七月。

冬，天王出居于鄭。〔王者無外，此其言出何？不能乎母也。魯子曰：「是王也，不能乎母者，其諸此之謂與？」〕

晉侯夷吾卒。

僖公廿五年

二十有五年春，王正月丙午，衛侯毀滅邢。〔衛侯毀，何以名？絕。曷為絕之？滅同姓也。〕

夏，四月癸酉，衛侯毀卒。宋蕩伯姬來逆婦。〔宋蕩伯姬者何？蕩氏之母也。其言來逆婦何？兄弟辭也。其稱婦何？有姑之辭也。〕

宋殺其大夫。〔何以不名？宋三世無大夫，三世內娶也。〕

秋，楚人圍陳，納頓子于頓。〔何以不言遂？兩之也。〕

葬衛文公。

冬，十有二月癸亥，公會衛子、莒慶，盟于洮。

僖公廿六年

二十有六年春，王正月己未，公會莒子、衛甯遬，盟于向。

齊人侵我西鄙。公追齊師至酅，弗及。〔其言「至酅，弗及」何？侈也。〕

夏，齊人伐我北鄙。衛人伐齊。公子遂如楚乞師。〔乞者何？卑辭也。曷為以外內同若辭？重師也。曷為重師？師出不正反，戰不正勝也。〕

秋，楚人滅隗，以隗子歸。

冬，楚人伐宋，圍緡。〔邑不言圍，此其言圍何？刺道用師也。〕

公以楚師伐齊，取穀。公至自伐齊。〔此已取穀矣，何以致伐？未得乎取穀也。曷為未得乎取穀？曰：患之起，必自此始也。〕

僖公廿七年

二十有七年春，杞子來朝。

夏，六月庚寅，齊侯昭卒。

秋，八月乙未，葬齊孝公。

乙巳，公子遂帥師入杞。

冬，楚人、陳侯、蔡侯、鄭伯、許男圍宋。〔此楚子也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？為執宋公貶，故終僖之篇貶也。〕

十有二月甲戌，公會諸侯盟于宋。

僖公廿八年

二十有八年春，晉侯侵曹，晉侯伐衛。〔曷為再言晉侯？非兩之也。然則何以不言遂？未侵曹也。未侵曹則其言侵曹何？致其意也。其意侵曹，則曷為伐衛？晉侯將侵曹，假涂于衛，衛曰不可得，則固將伐之也。〕

公子買戍衛，不卒戍，刺之。〔不卒戍者何？不卒戍者，內辭也，不可使往也。不可使往，則其言戍衛何？遂公意也。刺之者何？殺之也。殺之則曷為謂之刺之？內諱殺大夫，謂之刺之也。〕

楚人救衛。三月丙午，晉侯入曹，執曹伯、畀宋人。〔畀者何？與也。其言畀宋人何？與使聽之也。曹伯之罪何？甚惡也。其甚惡奈何？不可以一罪言也。〕

夏，四月己巳，晉侯、齊師、宋師、秦師及楚人戰于城濮，楚師敗績。〔此大戰也，曷為使微者？子玉得臣也。子玉得臣則其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？大夫不敵君也。〕

楚殺其大夫得臣。

衛侯出奔楚。

五月，癸丑，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、蔡侯、鄭伯、衛子、莒子，盟于踐土。陳侯如會。〔其言如會何？後會也。〕

公朝于王所。〔曷為不言公如京師？天子在是也。天子在是，則曷為不言天子在是？不與致天子也。〕

六月，衛侯鄭自楚復歸于衛。

衛元咺出奔晉。

陳侯款卒。

秋，杞伯姬來。

公子遂如齊。

冬，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、蔡侯、鄭伯、陳子、莒子、邾婁子、秦人于溫。天王狩于河陽。〔狩不書，此何以書？不與再致天子也。魯子曰：「溫近而踐土遠也。」〕

壬申，公朝于王所。〔其日何？錄乎內也。〕

晉人執衛侯歸之于京師。〔歸之于者何？歸于者何？歸之于者罪已定矣，歸于者罪未定也。罪未定，則何以得為伯執？歸之于者，執之于天子之側者也，罪定不定，已可知矣。歸于者，非執之于天子之側者也，罪定不定，未可知也。衛侯之罪何？殺叔武也。何以不書？為叔武諱也。《春秋》為賢者諱。何賢乎叔武？讓國也。其讓國奈何？文公逐衛侯而立叔武，叔武辭立而他人立，則恐衛侯之不得反也，故於是已立，然後為踐土之會，治反衛侯。衛侯得反，曰：「叔武篡我。」元咺爭之曰：「叔武無罪。」終殺叔武，元咺走而出。此晉侯也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？衛之禍，文公為之也。文公為之奈何？文公逐衛侯而立叔武，使人兄弟相疑，放乎殺母弟者，文公為之也。〕

衛元咺自晉復歸于衛。〔自者何？有力焉者也。此執其君，其言自何？為叔武爭也。〕

諸侯遂圍許。曹伯襄復歸于曹。遂會諸侯圍許。

僖公廿九年

二十有九年春，介葛盧來。〔介葛盧者何？夷狄之君也。何以不言朝？不能乎朝也。〕

公至自圍許。

夏，六月，公會王人、晉人、宋人、齊人、陳人、蔡人、秦人，盟于狄泉。

秋，大雨雹。

冬，介葛盧來。

僖公卅年

三十年春，王正月。

夏，狄侵齊。

秋，衛殺其大夫元咺及公子瑕。〔衛侯未至，其稱國以殺何？道殺也。〕

衛侯鄭歸于衛。〔此殺其大夫，其言歸何？歸惡乎元咺也。曷為歸惡乎元咺？元咺之事君也，君出則己入，君入則己出，以為不臣也。〕

晉人、秦人圍鄭。

介人侵蕭。

冬，天王使宰周公來聘。

公子遂如京師，遂如晉。〔大夫無遂事，此其言遂何？公不得為政爾。〕

僖公卅一年

三十有一年春，取濟西田。〔惡乎取之？取之曹也。曷為不言取之曹？諱取同姓之田也。此未有伐曹者，則其言取之曹何？晉侯執曹伯，班其所取侵地于諸侯也。晉侯執曹伯，班其所取侵地于諸侯，則何諱乎取同姓之田？久也。〕

公子遂如晉。夏，四月，四卜郊不從，乃免牲，猶三望。〔曷為或言三卜？或言四卜？三卜，禮也；四卜，非禮也。三卜何以禮？四卜何以非禮？求吉之道三。禘、嘗不卜，郊何以卜？卜郊，非禮也。卜郊何以非禮？魯郊，非禮也。魯郊何以非禮？天子祭天，諸侯祭土。天子有方望之事，無所不通。諸侯山川有不在其封內者，則不祭也。曷為或言免牲？或言免牛？免牲，禮也；免牛，非禮也。免牛何以非禮？傷者曰牛。三望者何？望祭也。然則曷祭？祭泰山、河海。曷為祭泰山、河海？山川有能潤于百里者，天子秩而祭之。觸石而出，膚寸而合，不崇朝而遍雨乎天下者，唯泰山爾。河海潤于千里。猶者何？通可以已也。何以書？譏不郊而望祭也。〕

秋，七月。

冬，杞伯姬來求婦。〔其言來求婦何？兄弟辭也。其稱婦何？有姑之辭也。〕

狄圍衛。

十有二月，衛遷于帝丘。

僖公卅二年

三十有二年春，王正月。

夏，四月己丑，鄭伯接卒。

衛人侵狄。

秋，衛人及狄盟。

冬，十有二月己卯，晉侯重耳卒。

僖公卅三年

三十有三年春，王二月，秦人入滑。齊侯使國歸父來聘。

夏，四月辛巳，晉人及姜戎敗秦于殽。〔其謂之秦何？夷狄之也。曷為夷狄之？秦伯將襲鄭，百里子與蹇叔子諫曰：「千里而襲人，未有不亡者也。」秦伯怒曰：「若爾之年者，宰上之木拱矣，爾曷知！」師出，百里子與蹇叔子送其子而戒之曰：「爾即死，必於殽之嵚巖，是文王之所辟風雨者也，吾將尸爾焉。」子揖師而行。百里子與蹇叔子從其子而哭之。秦伯怒曰：「爾曷為哭吾師？」對曰：「臣非敢哭君師，哭臣之子也。」弦高者，鄭商也，遇之殽，矯以鄭伯之命而犒師焉，或曰往矣，或曰反矣。然而晉人與姜戎要之殽而擊之，匹馬輪無反者。其言及姜戎何？姜戎微也，稱人亦微者也。何言乎姜戎之微？先軫也，或曰襄公親之。襄公親之，則其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？君在乎殯而用師危，不得葬也。詐戰不日，此何以日？盡也。〕

癸巳，葬晉文公。

狄侵齊。

公伐邾婁，取叢。

秋，公子遂率師伐邾婁。

晉人敗狄于箕。

冬，十月，公如齊。

十有二月，公至自齊。

乙巳，公薨于小寢。

隕霜不殺草，李、梅實。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？不時也。〕

晉人、陳人、鄭人伐許。

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文公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。

二月癸亥朔，日有食之。

天王使叔服來會葬。〔其言來會葬何？會葬禮也。〕

夏，四月丁巳，葬我君僖公。天王使毛伯來錫公命。〔錫者何？賜也。命者何？加我服也。〕

晉侯伐衛。

叔孫得臣如京師。

衛人伐晉。

秋，公孫敖會晉侯于戚。

冬，十月丁未，楚世子商臣弒其君髡。

公孫敖如齊。

文公二年

二年春，王二月甲子，晉侯及秦師戰于彭衙，秦師敗績。

丁丑，作僖公主。〔作僖公主者何？為僖公作主也。主者曷用？虞主用桑，練主用栗。用栗者，藏主也。作僖公主，何以書？譏。何譏爾？不時也。其不時奈何？欲久喪而後不能也。〕

三月乙巳，及晉處父盟。〔此晉陽處父也，何以不氏？諱與大夫盟也。〕

夏，六月，公孫敖會宋公、陳侯、鄭伯、晉士縠，盟于垂斂。

自十有二月不雨，至于秋七月。〔何以書？記異也。大旱以災書，此亦旱也，曷為以異書？大旱之日短而云災，故以災書；此不雨之日長而無災，故以異書也。〕

八月丁卯，大事于太廟，躋僖公。〔大事者何？大祫也。大祫者何？合祭也。其合祭奈何？毀廟之主，陳于太祖；未毀廟之主皆升，合食于太祖，五年而再殷祭。躋者何？升也。何言乎升僖公？譏。何譏爾？逆祀也。其逆祀奈何？先禰而後祖也。〕

冬，晉人、宋人、陳人、鄭人伐秦。

公子遂如齊納幣。〔納幣不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏喪娶也。娶在三年之外，則何譏乎喪娶？三年之內不圖婚。吉禘于莊公，譏。然則曷為不於祭焉譏？三年之恩疾矣，非虛加之也，以人心為皆有之。以人心為皆有之，則曷為獨於娶焉譏？娶者，大吉也，非常吉也。其為吉者主於己，以為有人心焉者，則宜於此焉變矣！〕

文公三年

三年春，王正月，叔孫得臣會晉人、宋人、陳人、衛人、鄭人伐沈，沈潰。

夏，五月，王子虎卒。〔王子虎者何？天子之大夫也。外大夫不卒，此何以卒？新使乎我也。〕

秦人伐晉。

秋，楚人圍江。

雨螽于宋。〔雨螽者何？死而墜也。何以書？記異也。外異不書，此何以書？為王者之後記異也。〕

冬，公如晉。

十有二月己巳，公及晉侯盟。

晉陽處父帥師伐楚救江。〔此伐楚也，其言救江何？為諼也。其為諼奈何？伐楚為救江也。〕

文公四年

四年春，公至自晉。

夏，逆婦姜于齊。〔其謂之逆婦姜于齊何？略之也。高子曰：「娶乎大夫者，略之也。」〕

狄侵齊。

秋，楚人滅江。

晉侯伐秦。

衛侯使甯俞來聘。

冬，十有一月壬寅，夫人風氏薨。

文公五年

五年春，王正月，王使榮叔歸含且赗。〔含者何？口實也。其言歸含且赗何？兼之。兼之非禮也。〕

三月辛亥，葬我小君成風。〔成風者何？僖公之母也。〕

王使召伯來會葬。

夏，公孫敖如晉。

秦人入鄀。

秋，楚人滅六。

冬，十月甲申，許男業卒。

文公六年

六年春，葬許僖公。

夏，季孫行父如陳。

秋，季孫行父如晉。

八月乙亥，晉侯讙卒。

冬，十月，公子遂如晉。

葬晉襄公。

晉殺其大夫陽處父，晉狐射姑出奔狄。〔晉殺其大夫陽處父，則狐射姑曷為出奔？射姑殺也。射姑殺則其稱國以殺何？君漏言也。其漏言奈何？君將使射姑將。陽處父諫曰：「射姑民眾不說，不可使將。」於是廢將。陽處父出，射姑入。君謂射姑曰：「陽處父言曰：『射姑民眾不說，不可使將。』」射姑怒，出刺陽處父於朝而走。〕

閏月不告月，猶朝于廟。〔不告月者何？不告朔也。曷為不告朔？天無是月也。閏月矣，何以謂之天無是月？是月非常月也。猶者何？通可以已也。〕

文公七年

七年春，公伐邾婁。

三月甲戌，取須朐。〔取邑不日，此何以日？內辭也，使若他人然。〕

遂城郚。

夏，四月，宋公王臣卒。

宋人殺其大夫。〔何以不名？宋三世無大夫，三世內娶也。〕

戊子，晉人及秦人戰于令狐，晉先眛以師奔秦。〔此偏戰也，何以不言師敗績？敵也。此晉先眛也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？外也。其外奈何？以師外也。何以不言出？遂在外也。〕

狄侵我西鄙。

秋，八月，公會諸侯、晉大夫，盟于扈。〔諸侯何以不序？大夫何以不名？公失序也。公失序奈何？諸侯不可使與公盟，眣晉大夫使與公盟也。〕

冬，徐伐莒。公孫敖如莒蒞盟。

文公八年

八年春，王正月。

夏，四月。

秋，八月戊申，天王崩。

冬，十月壬午，公子遂會晉趙盾，盟于衡雍。

乙酉，公子遂會伊雒戎，盟于暴。

公孫敖如京師，不至復；丙戌，奔莒。〔不至復者何？不至復者，內辭也，不可使往也。不可使往，則其言如京師何？遂公意也。何以不言出？遂在外也。〕

螽。

宋人殺其大夫司馬；宋司城來奔。〔司馬者何？司城者何？皆官舉也。曷為皆官舉？宋三世無大夫，三世內娶也。〕

文公九年

九年春，毛伯來求金。〔毛伯者何？天子之大夫也。何以不稱使？當喪未君也。逾年矣，何以謂之未君？即位矣，而未稱王也。未稱王，何以知其即位？以諸侯之逾年即位，亦知天子之逾年即位也。以天子三年然後稱王，亦知諸侯於其封內三年稱子也。逾年稱公矣，則曷為於其封內三年稱子？緣民臣之心，不可一日無君；緣終始之義，一年不二君，不可曠年無君；緣孝子之心，則三年不忍當也。毛伯來求金，何以書？譏。何譏爾？王者無求，求金非禮也。然則是王者與？曰：非也。非王者則曷為謂之王者？王者無求，曰：是子也。繼文王之體，守文王之法度，文王之法無求而求，故譏之也。〕

夫人姜氏如齊。

二月，叔孫得臣如京師。

辛丑，葬襄王。〔王者不書葬，此何以書？不及時書，過時書，我有往者則書。〕

晉人殺其大夫先都。

三月，夫人姜氏至自齊。

晉人殺其大夫士眛及箕鄭父。

楚人伐鄭。

公子遂會晉人、宋人、衛人、許人救鄭。

夏，狄侵齊。

秋，八月，曹伯襄卒。

九月癸酉，地震。〔地震者何？動地也。何以書？記異也。〕

冬，楚子使椒來聘。〔椒者何？楚大夫也。楚無大夫，此何以書？始有大夫也。始有大夫，則何以不氏？許夷狄者不一而足也。〕

秦人來歸僖公成風之襚。〔其言僖公成風何？兼之。兼之非禮也。曷為不言及成風？成風尊也。〕

葬曹共公。

文公十年

十年春，王三月辛卯，臧孫辰卒。

夏，秦伐晉。

楚殺其大夫宜申。

自正月不雨，至于秋七月。

及蘇子盟于女栗。

冬，狄侵宋。

楚子、蔡侯次于屈貉。

文公十一年

十有一年春，楚子伐圈。

夏，叔彭生會晉郤缺于承匡。

秋，曹伯來朝。

公子遂如宋。

狄侵齊。

冬，十月甲午，叔孫得臣敗狄于鹹。〔狄者何？長狄也。兄弟三人，一者之齊，一者之魯，一者之晉。其之齊者，王子成父殺之；其之魯者，叔孫得臣殺之；則未知其之晉者也。其言敗何？大之也。其日何？大之也。其地何？大之也。何以書？記異也。〕

文公十二年

十有二年春，王正月，盛伯來奔。〔盛伯者何？失地之君也。何以不名？兄弟辭也。〕

杞伯來朝。

二月庚子，子叔姬卒。〔此未適人，何以卒？許嫁矣。婦人許嫁，字而笄之，死則以成人之喪治之。其稱子何？貴也。其貴奈何？母弟也。〕

夏，楚人圍巢。

秋，滕子來朝。

秦伯使遂來聘。〔遂者何？秦大夫也。秦無大夫，此何以書？賢繆公也。何賢乎繆公？以為能變也。其為能變奈何？惟諓諓善竫言。俾君子易怠，而況乎我多有之，惟一介斷斷焉無他技。其心休休，能有容，是難也。〕

冬，十有二月戊午，晉人、秦人戰于河曲。〔此偏戰也，何以不言師敗績？敵也。曷為以水地？河曲疏矣，河千里而一曲也。〕

季孫行父帥師，城諸及運。

文公十三年

十有三年春，王正月。

夏，五月壬午，陳侯朔卒。

邾婁子蘧蒢卒。

自正月不雨，至于秋七月。

世室屋壞。〔世室者何？魯公之廟也。周公稱太廟，魯公稱世室，群公稱宮。此魯公之廟也，曷為謂之世室？世室，猶世室也，世世不毀也。周公何以稱太廟于魯？封魯公以為周公也。周公拜乎前，魯公拜乎後。曰：生以養周公，死以為周公主。然則周公之魯乎？曰：不之魯也，封魯公以為周公主。然則周公曷為不之魯？欲天下之一乎周也。魯祭周公，何以為牲？周公用白牡，魯公用騂犅，群公不毛。魯祭周公，何以為盛？周公盛，魯公燾，群公廩。世室屋壞，何以書？譏。何譏爾？久不修也。〕

冬，公如晉。

衛侯會于沓。

狄侵衛。

十有二月己丑，公及晉侯盟，還自晉。

鄭伯會公于斐。〔還者何？善辭也。何善爾？往黨，衛侯會公于沓，至得與晉侯盟。反黨，鄭伯會公于斐，故善之也。〕

文公十有四年

十有四年春，王正月，公至自晉。

邾婁人伐我南鄙。

叔彭生帥師伐邾婁。

夏，五月乙亥，齊侯潘卒。

六月，公會宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、許男、曹伯、晉趙盾。

癸酉，同盟于新城。

秋，七月，有星孛入于北斗。〔孛者何？彗星也。其言入于北斗何？北斗有中也。何以書？記異也。〕

公至自會。

晉人納接菑于邾婁，弗克納。〔納者何？入辭也。其言弗克納何？大其弗克納也。何大乎其弗克納？晉郤缺帥師，革車八百乘，以納接菑于邾婁，力沛若有餘而納之。邾婁人言曰：「接菑，晉出也；貜且，齊出也。子以其指，則接菑也四，貜且也六。子以大國壓之，則未知齊、晉孰有之也，貴則皆貴矣。雖然，貜且也長。」郤缺曰：「非吾力不能納也，義實不爾克也。」引師而去之，故君子大其弗克納也。此晉郤缺也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？不與大夫專廢置君也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？大夫之義，不得專廢置君也。〕

九月甲申，公孫敖卒于齊。

齊公子商人弒其君舍。〔此未逾年之君也，其言弒其君舍何？己立之，己殺之，成死者而賤生者也。〕

宋子哀來奔。〔宋子哀者何？無聞焉爾。〕

冬，單伯如齊。

齊人執單伯，齊人執子叔姬。〔執者曷為或稱行人？或不稱行人？稱行人而執者，以其事執也；不稱行人而執者，以己執也。單伯之罪何？道淫也。惡乎淫？淫乎子叔姬。然則曷為不言齊人執單伯及子叔姬？內辭也，使若異罪然。〕

文公十五年

十有五年春，季孫行父如晉。

三月，宋司馬華孫來盟。

夏，曹伯來朝。

齊人歸公孫敖之喪。〔何以不言來？內辭也。脅我而歸之，筍將而來也。〕

六月辛丑朔，日有食之，鼓用牲于社。

單伯至自齊。

晉郤缺帥師伐蔡；戊申，入蔡。〔入不言伐，此其言伐何？至之日也。其日何？至之日也。〕

秋，齊人侵我西鄙。

季孫行父如晉。

冬，十有一月，諸侯盟于扈。

十有二月，齊人來歸子叔姬。〔其言來何？閔之也。此有罪，何閔爾？父母之於子，雖有罪，猶若其不欲服罪然。〕

齊侯侵我西鄙，遂伐曹，入其郛。〔郛者何？恢郭也。入郛書乎？曰：不書。入郛不書，此何以書？動我也。動我者何？內辭也。其實我動焉爾。〕

文公十六年

十有六年春，季孫行父會齊侯于陽穀，齊侯弗及盟。〔其言弗及盟何？不見與盟也。〕

夏，五月，公四不視朔。〔公曷為四不視朔？公有疾也。何言乎公有疾不視朔？自是公無疾，不視朔也。然則曷為不言「公無疾不視朔」？有疾猶可言也，無疾不可言也。〕

六月戊辰，公子遂及齊侯盟于犀丘。

秋，八月辛未，夫人姜氏薨。

毀泉臺。〔泉臺者何？郎臺也。郎臺則曷為謂之泉臺？未成為郎臺，既成為泉臺。毀泉臺，何以書？譏。何譏爾？筑之譏，毀之譏。先祖為之，己毀之，不如勿居而已矣！〕

楚人、秦人、巴人滅庸。

冬，十有一月，宋人弒其君處臼。〔弒君者曷為或稱名氏？或不稱名氏？大夫弒君稱名氏，賤者窮諸人；大夫相殺稱人，賤者窮諸盜。〕

文公十七年

十有七年春，晉人、衛人、陳人、鄭人伐宋。

夏，四月癸亥，葬我小君聖姜。〔聖姜者何？文公之母也。〕

齊侯伐我西鄙。

六月癸未，公及齊侯盟于穀。

諸侯會于扈。

秋，公至自穀。

冬，公子遂如齊。

文公十八年

十有八年春，王二月丁丑，公薨于臺下。

秦伯罃卒。

夏，五月戊戌，齊人弒其君商人。

六月癸酉，葬我君文公。

秋，公子遂、叔孫得臣如齊。

冬，十月，子卒。〔子卒者孰謂？謂子赤也。何以不日？隱之也。何隱爾？弒也。弒則何以不日？不忍言也。〕

夫人姜氏歸于齊。

季孫行父如齊。莒弒其君庶其。〔稱國以弒何？稱國以弒者，眾弒君之辭。〕

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宣公

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宣公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。〔繼弒君不言即位，此其言即位何？其意也。〕

公子遂如齊逆女。三月，遂以夫人婦姜至自齊。〔遂何以不稱公子？一事而再見者，卒名也。夫人何以不稱姜氏？貶。曷為貶？譏喪娶也。喪娶者公也，則曷為貶夫人？內無貶于公之道也。內無貶于公之道，則曷為貶夫人？夫人與公一體也。其稱婦何？有姑之辭也。〕

夏，季孫行父如齊。

晉放其大夫胥甲父于衛。〔放之者何？猶曰無去是云爾。然則何言爾？近正也。此其為近正奈何？古者大夫已去，三年待放。君放之，非也；大夫待放，正也。古者臣有大喪，則君三年不呼其門。已練可以弁冕，服金革之事。君使之，非也；臣行之，禮也。閔子要绖而服事，既而曰：「若此乎！古之道不即人心。」退而致仕。孔子蓋善之也。〕

公會齊侯于平州。

公子遂如齊。

六月，齊人取濟西田。〔外取邑不書，此何以書？所以賂齊也。曷為賂齊？為弒子赤之賂也。〕

秋，邾婁子來朝。

楚子、鄭人侵陳，遂侵宋。

晉趙盾帥師救陳。宋公、陳侯、衛侯、曹伯會晉師于斐林，伐鄭。〔此晉趙盾之師也，曷為不言趙盾之師？君不會大夫之辭也。〕

冬，晉趙穿帥師侵柳。〔柳者何？天子之邑也。曷為不系乎周？不與伐天子也。〕

晉人、宋人伐鄭。

宣公二年

二年春，王二月壬子，宋華元帥師，及鄭公子歸生帥師，戰于大棘。宋師敗績，獲宋華元。

秦師伐晉。

夏，晉人、宋人、衛人、陳人侵鄭。

秋，九月乙丑，晉趙盾弒其君夷嗥。

冬，十月乙亥，天王崩。

宣公三年

三年春，王正月，郊牛之口傷，改卜牛。牛死，乃不郊，猶三望。〔其言之何？緩也。曷為不復卜？養牲養二卜。帝牲不吉，則扳稷牲而卜之。帝牲在于滌三月，於稷者唯具是視。郊則曷為必祭稷？王者必以其祖配。王者則曷為必以其祖配？自內出者無匹不行，自外至者無主不止。〕

葬匡王。

楚子伐賁渾戎。

夏，楚人侵鄭。

秋，赤狄侵齊。

宋師圍曹。

冬，十月丙戌，鄭伯蘭卒。葬鄭繆公。

宣公四年

四年春，王正月，公及齊侯平莒及郯。莒人不肯，公伐莒，取向。〔此平莒也，其言不肯何？辭取向也。〕

秦伯稻卒。

夏，六月乙酉，鄭公子歸生弒其君夷。

赤狄侵齊。

秋，公如齊。公至自齊。

冬，楚子伐鄭。

宣公五年

五年春，公如齊。夏，公至自齊。

秋，九月，齊高固來逆子叔姬。

叔孫得臣卒。

冬，齊高固及子叔姬來。〔何言乎高固之來？言叔姬之來，而不言高固之來則不可。子公羊子曰：「其諸為其雙雙而俱至者與！」〕

楚人伐鄭。

宣公六年

六年春，晉趙盾、衛孫免侵陳。〔趙盾弒君，此其復見何？親弒君者趙穿也。親弒君者趙穿，則曷為加之趙盾？不討賊也。何以謂之不討賊？晉史書賊曰：「晉趙盾弒其君夷嗥。」趙盾曰：「天乎！無辜！吾不弒君，誰謂吾弒君者乎？」史曰：「爾為仁為義，人弒爾君，而復國不討賊，此非弒君而何？」趙盾之復國奈何？靈公為無道，使諸大夫皆內朝，然後處乎臺上，引彈而彈之，己趨而辟丸，是樂而已矣。趙盾已朝而出，與諸大夫立於朝，有人荷畚，自閨而出者。趙盾曰：「彼何也？夫畚曷為出乎閨？」呼之不至，曰：「子大夫也，欲視之則就而視之。」趙盾就而視之，則赫然死人也。趙盾曰：「是何也？」曰：「膳宰也，熊蹯不熟，公怒以斗摮而殺之，支解將使我棄之。」趙盾曰：「嘻！」趨而入。靈公望見趙盾，愬而再拜。趙盾逡巡北面再拜稽首，趨而出，靈公心怍焉，欲殺之。於是使勇士某者往殺之，勇士入其大門，則無人門焉者；入其閨，則無人閨焉者；上其堂，則無人焉。俯而窺其戶，方食魚飧。勇士曰：「嘻！子誠仁人也！吾太子之大門，則無人焉；太子之閨，則無人焉；上子之堂，則無人焉；是子之易也。子為晉國重卿而食魚飧，是子之儉也。君將使我殺子，吾不忍殺子也，雖然，吾亦不可復見吾君矣。」遂刎頸而死。靈公聞之怒，滋欲殺之甚，眾莫可使往者。於是伏甲于宮中，召趙盾而食之。趙盾之車右祁彌明者，國之力士也，仡然從乎趙盾而入，放乎堂下而立。趙盾已食，靈公謂盾曰：「吾聞子之劍蓋利劍也，子以示我，吾將觀焉。」趙盾起將進劍，祁彌明自下呼之曰：「盾食飽則出，何故拔劍於君所？」趙盾知之，躇階而走。靈公有周狗，謂之獒，呼獒而屬之，獒亦躇階而從之。祁彌明逆而踆之，絕其頷。趙盾顧曰：「君之獒不若臣之獒也！」然而宮中甲鼓而起，有起干甲中者，抱趙盾而乘之。趙盾顧曰：「吾何以得此于子？」曰：「子某時所食活我于暴桑下者也。」趙盾曰：「子名為誰？」曰：「吾君孰為介？子之乘矣，何問吾名？」趙盾驅而出，眾無留之者。趙穿緣民眾不說，起弒靈公，然後迎趙盾而入，與之立于朝，而立成公黑臀。〕

夏，四月。

秋，八月，螽。

冬，十月。

宣公七年

七年春，衛侯使孫良夫來盟。

夏，公會齊侯伐萊。

秋，公至自伐萊。

大旱。

冬，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯于黑壤。

宣公八年

八年春，公至自會。

夏，六月，公子遂如齊，至黃乃復。〔其言至黃乃復何？有疾也。何言乎有疾乃復？譏。何譏爾？大夫以君命出，聞喪徐行而不反。〕

辛巳，有事于太廟。

仲遂卒于垂。〔仲遂者何？公子遂也。何以不稱公子？貶。曷為貶？為弒子赤貶。然則曷為不於其弒焉貶？於文則無罪，於子則無年。〕

壬午，猶繹。

萬入去龠。〔繹者何？祭之明日也。萬者何？干舞也。龠者何？龠舞也。其言萬入去龠何？去其有聲者，廢其無聲者，存其心焉爾。存其心焉爾者何？知其不可而為之也。猶者何？通可以已也。〕

戊子，夫人熊氏薨。

晉師、白狄伐秦。

楚人滅舒蓼。

秋，七月甲子，日有食之，既。

冬，十月己丑，葬我小君頃熊。〔雨不克葬。庚寅，日中而克葬。頃熊者何？宣公之母也。而者何？難也。乃者何？難也。曷為或言而？或言乃？乃難乎而也。〕

城平陽。

楚師伐陳。

宣公九年

九年春，王正月，公如齊。公至自齊。

夏，仲孫蔑如京師。

齊侯伐萊。

秋，取根牟。〔根牟者何？邾婁之邑也。曷為不系乎邾婁？諱亟也。〕

八月，滕子卒。

九月，晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯會于扈。

晉荀林父帥師伐陳。

辛酉，晉侯黑臀卒于扈。〔扈者何？晉之邑也。諸侯卒其封內不地，此何以地？卒于會，故地也；未出其地，故不言會也。〕

冬，十月癸酉，衛侯鄭卒。

宋人圍滕。

楚子伐鄭，晉郤缺帥師救鄭。

陳殺其大夫泄冶。

宣公十年

十年春，公如齊。公至自齊。

齊人歸我濟西田。〔齊已取之矣，其言我何？言我者未絕於我也。曷為未絕于我？齊已言取之矣，其實未之齊也。〕

夏，四月丙辰，日有食之。

己巳，齊侯元卒。

齊崔氏出奔衛。〔崔氏者何？齊大夫也。其稱崔氏何？貶。曷為貶？譏世卿，世卿非禮也。〕

公如齊。五月，公至自齊。

癸巳，陳夏徵舒弒其君平國。

六月，宋師伐滕。

公孫歸父如齊，葬齊惠公。

晉人、宋人、衛人、曹人伐鄭。

秋，天王使王季子來聘。〔王季子者何？天子之大夫也。其稱王季子何？貴也。其貴奈何？母弟也。〕

公孫歸父帥師伐邾婁，取蘱。

大水。

季孫行父如齊。

冬，公孫歸父如齊。

齊侯使國佐來聘。

饑。〔何以書？以重書也。〕

楚子伐鄭。

宣公十一年

十有一年春，王正月。

夏，楚子、陳侯、鄭伯盟于辰陵。

公孫歸父會齊人伐莒。

秋，晉侯會狄于櫕函。

冬，十月，楚人殺陳夏徵舒。〔此楚子也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？不與外討也。不與外討者，因其討乎外而不與也，雖內討亦不與也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？諸侯之義，不得專討也。諸侯之義不得專討，則其曰實與之何？上無天子，下無方伯，天下諸侯有為無道者，臣弒君，子弒父，力能討之，則討之可也。〕

丁亥，楚子入陳，納公孫甯、儀行父于陳。〔此皆大夫也，其言納何？納公黨與也。〕

宣公十二年

十有二年春，葬陳靈公。〔討此賊者非臣子也，何以書葬？君子辭也。楚已討之矣，臣子雖欲討之而無所討也。〕

楚子圍鄭。

夏，六月乙卯，晉荀林父帥師及楚子戰于邲，晉師敗績。〔大夫不敵君，此其稱名氏以敵楚子何？不與晉而與楚子為禮也。曷為不與晉而與楚子為禮也？莊王伐鄭，勝乎皇門，放乎路衢。鄭伯肉袒，左執茅旌，右執鸞刀，以逆莊王曰：「寡人無良，邊垂之臣，以干天禍，是以使君王沛焉，辱到敝邑。君如矜此喪人，錫之不毛之地，使帥一二耋老而綏焉，請唯君王之命。」莊王曰：「君之不令臣，交易為言，是以使寡人得見君之玉面而微至乎此。」莊王親自手旌，左右撝軍退舍七里。將軍子重諫曰：「南郢之與鄭相去數千里，諸大夫死者數人，廝役扈養死者數百人，今君勝鄭而不有，無乃失民臣之力乎？」莊王曰：「古者杅不穿、皮不蠹，則不出於四方。是以君子篤於禮而薄于利，要其人而不要其土，告從，不赦不詳，吾以不詳道民，災及吾身，何日之有？」既則晉師之救鄭者至曰：「請戰。」莊王許諾。將軍子重諫曰：「晉，大國也，王師淹病矣，君請勿許也。」莊王曰：「弱者，吾威之，強者吾辟之，是以使寡人無以立乎天下！」令之還師而逆晉寇。莊王鼓之，晉師大敗，晉眾之走者，舟中之指可掬矣。莊王曰：「嘻！吾兩君不相好，百姓何罪？」令之還師而佚晉寇。〕

秋，七月。

冬，十有二月戊寅，楚子滅蕭。

晉人、宋人、衛人、曹人同盟于清丘。

宋師伐陳。

衛人救陳。

宣公十三年

十有三年春，齊師伐衛。

夏，楚子伐宋。

秋，螽。

冬，晉殺其大夫先縠。

宣公十四年

十有四年春，衛殺其大夫孔達。

夏，五月壬申，曹伯壽卒。

晉侯伐鄭。

秋，九月，楚子圍宋。

葬曹文公。

冬，公孫歸父會齊侯于穀。

宣公十五年

十有五年春，公孫歸父會楚子于宋。

夏，五月，宋人及楚人平。〔外平不書，此何以書？大其平乎己也。何大乎其平乎己？莊王圍宋，軍有七日之糧爾。盡此不勝，將去而歸爾。於是使司馬子反乘堙而闚宋城，宋華元亦乘堙而出見之。司馬子反曰：「子之國何如？」華元曰：「憊矣。」曰：「何如？」曰：「易子而食之，析骸而炊之。」司馬子反曰：「嘻！甚矣憊！雖然，吾聞之也：圍者柑馬而秣之，使肥者應客，是何子之情也？」華元曰：「吾聞之：君子見人之厄則矜之，小人見人之厄則幸之。吾見子之君子也，是以告情于子也。」司馬子反曰：「諾，勉之矣！吾軍亦有七日之糧爾，盡此不勝，將去而歸爾。」揖而去之，反于莊王。莊王曰：「何如？」司馬子反曰：「憊矣！」曰：「何如？」曰：「易子而食之，析骸而炊之。」莊王曰：「嘻！甚矣憊！雖然，吾今取此，然後而歸爾。」司馬子反曰：「不可。臣已告之矣，軍有七日之糧爾。」莊王怒曰：「吾使子往視之，子曷為告之？」司馬子反曰：「以區區之宋，猶有不欺人之臣，可以楚而無乎？是以告之也。」莊王曰：「諾。舍而止。雖然，吾猶取此然後歸爾。」司馬子反曰：「然則君請處于此，臣請歸爾。」莊王曰：「子去我而歸，吾孰與處于此？吾亦從子而歸爾。」引使而去之，故君子大其平乎己也。此皆大夫也，其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？平者在下也。〕

六月癸卯，晉師滅赤狄潞氏，以潞子嬰兒歸。〔潞何以稱子？潞子之為善也，躬足以亡爾。雖然，君子不可不記也。離于夷狄，而未能合于中國，晉師伐之，中國不救，狄人不有，是以亡也。〕

秦人伐晉。

王札子殺召伯、毛伯。王札子者何？長庶之號也。

秋，螽。

仲孫蔑會齊高固于牟婁。

初稅畝。〔初者何？始也。稅畝者何？履畝而稅也。初稅畝，何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始履畝而稅也。何譏乎始履畝而稅？古者什一而藉。古者曷為什一而藉？什一者天下之中正也。多乎什一，大桀、小桀；寡乎什一，大貉、小貉。什一者天下之中正也，什一行而頌聲作矣。〕

冬，蝝生。〔未有言蝝生者，此其言蝝生何？蝝生不書，此何以書？幸之也。幸之者何？猶曰受之云爾。受之云爾者何？上變古易常，應是而有天災，其諸則宜於此焉變矣。〕

饑。

宣公十六年

十有六年春，王正月，晉人滅赤狄甲氏及留吁。

夏，成周宣謝災。〔成周者何？東周也。宣謝者何？宣宮之謝也。何言乎成周宣謝災？樂器藏焉爾。成周宣謝災，何以書？記災也。外災不書，此何以書？新周也。〕

秋，郯伯姬來歸。

冬，大有年。

宣公十七年

十有七年春，王正月庚子，許男錫我卒。

丁未，蔡侯申卒。

夏，葬許昭公。

葬蔡文公。

六月癸卯，日有食之。

己未，公會晉侯、衛侯、曹伯、邾婁子同盟于斷道。秋，公至自會。

冬，十有一月壬午，公弟叔肸卒。

宣公十八年

十有八年春，晉侯、衛世子臧伐齊。

公伐杞。

夏，四月。

秋，七月，邾婁人戕鄫子于鄫。〔戕鄫子于鄫者何？殘賊而殺之也。〕

甲戌，楚子旅卒。〔何以不書葬？吳、楚之君不書葬，辟其號也。〕

公孫歸父如晉。

冬，十月壬戌，公薨于路寢。

歸父還自晉，至檉，遂奔齊。〔還者何？善辭也。何善爾？歸父使於晉，還自晉，至檉，聞君薨家遣，墠帷，哭君成踴，反命乎介，自是走之齊。〕

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成公

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成公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。

二月辛酉，葬我君宣公。

無冰。

三月，作丘甲。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始丘使也。〕

夏，臧孫許及晉侯盟于赤棘。

秋，王師敗績于貿戎。〔孰敗之？蓋晉敗之，或曰貿戎敗之。然則曷為不言晉敗之？王者無敵，莫敢當也。〕

冬，十月。

成公二年

二年春，齊侯伐我北鄙。

夏，四月丙戌，衛孫良夫帥師及齊師戰于新筑，衛師敗績。

六月癸酉，季孫行父、臧孫許、叔孫僑如、公孫嬰齊帥師，會晉郤克、衛孫良夫、曹公子手及齊侯戰于鞍，齊師敗績。〔曹無大夫，公子手何以書？憂內也。〕

秋，七月，齊侯使國佐如師。己酉，及國佐盟于袁婁。〔君不行使乎大夫，此其行使乎大夫何？佚獲也。其佚獲奈何？師還齊侯，晉郤克投戟逡巡再拜稽首馬前。逢醜父者，頃公之車右也。面目與頃公相似，衣服與頃公相似，代頃公當左。使頃公取飲，頃公操飲而至，曰：「革取清者。」頃公用是佚而不反。逢醜父曰：「吾賴社稷之神靈，吾君已免矣。」郤克曰：「欺三軍者，其法奈何？」曰：「法斮。」於是斮逢醜父。己酉，及齊國佐盟于袁婁，曷為不盟于師而盟于袁婁？前此者，晉郤克與臧孫許同時而聘于齊。蕭同侄子者，齊君之母也，踴于棓而窺客，則客或跛或眇，於是使跛者迓跛者，使眇者迓眇者。二大夫出，相與踦閭而語，移日然後相去。齊人皆曰：「患之起必自此始！」二大夫歸，相與率師為鞍之戰，齊師大敗。齊侯使國佐如師，郤克曰：「與我紀侯之甗，反魯、衛之侵地，使耕者東畝，且以蕭同侄子為質，則吾舍子矣。」國佐曰：「與我紀侯之甗，請諾。反魯、衛衛蕭同侄子為質，則吾舍子矣。」國佐曰：「與我紀侯之甗，請諾。反魯、衛之侵地，請諾。使耕者東畝，是則土齊也。蕭同侄子者，齊君之母也。齊君之母，猶晉君之母也，不可。請戰，壹戰不勝請再，再戰不勝請三，三戰不勝則齊國盡子之有也，何必以蕭同侄子為質？」揖而去之。郤克瞴魯、衛之使，使以其辭而為之請，然後許之。逮于袁婁而與之盟。〕

八月壬午，宋公鮑卒。

庚寅，衛侯遬卒。

取汶陽田。〔汶陽田者何？鞍之賂也。〕

冬，楚師、鄭師侵衛。

十有一月，公會楚公子嬰齊于蜀。丙申，公及楚人、秦人、宋人、陳人、衛人、鄭人、齊人、曹人、邾婁人、薛人、鄫人盟于蜀。〔此楚公子嬰齊也，其稱人何？得一貶焉爾。〕

成公三年

三年春，王正月，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯伐鄭。

辛亥，葬衛繆公。

二月，公至自伐鄭。

甲子，新宮災，三日哭。〔新宮者何？宣公之宮也。宣宮則曷為謂之新宮？不忍言也。其言三日哭何？廟災三日哭，禮也。新宮災，何以書？記災也。〕

乙亥，葬宋文公。

夏，公如晉。

鄭公子去疾率師伐許。

公至自晉。

秋，叔孫僑如率師圍棘。〔棘者何？汶陽之不服邑也。其言圍之何？不聽也。〕

大雩。

晉郤克、衛孫良夫伐將咎如。

冬，十有一月，晉侯使荀庚來聘。衛侯使孫良夫來聘。

丙午，及荀庚盟。丁未，及孫良夫盟。〔此聘也，其言盟何？聘而言盟者，尋舊盟也。〕

鄭伐許。

成公四年

四年春，宋公使華元來聘。

三月壬申，鄭伯堅卒。

杞伯來朝。

夏，四月甲寅，臧孫許卒。

公如晉。

葬鄭襄公。

秋，公至自晉。

冬，城運。

鄭伯伐許。

成公五年

五年春，王正月，杞叔姬來歸。

仲孫蔑如宋。

夏，叔孫僑如會晉荀秀于穀。

梁山崩。〔梁山者何？河上之山也。梁山崩，何以書？記異也。何異爾？大也。何大爾？梁山崩，壅河三日不流。外異不書，此何以書？為天下記異也。〕

秋，大水。

冬，十有一月己酉，天王崩。

十有二月己丑，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、邾婁子、杞伯同盟于蟲牢。

成公六年

六年春，王正月，公至自會。

二月辛巳，立武宮。〔武宮者何？武公之宮也。立者何？立者不宜立也。立武宮，非禮也。〕

取鄟。〔鄟者何？邾婁之邑也。曷為不系于邾婁？諱亟也。〕

衛孫良夫率師侵宋。

夏，六月，邾婁子來朝。

公孫嬰齊如晉。

壬申，鄭伯費卒。

秋，仲孫蔑、叔孫僑如率師侵宋。

楚公子嬰齊率師伐鄭。

冬，季孫行父如晉。

晉欒書率師侵鄭。

成公七年

七年春，王正月，鼷鼠食郊牛角。改卜牛，鼷鼠又食其角，乃免牛。

吳伐郯。

夏，五月，曹伯來朝。

不郊，猶三望。

秋，楚公子嬰齊率師伐鄭。

公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、杞伯救鄭。

八月戊辰，同盟于馬陵。

公至自會。

吳入州來。

冬，大雩。

衛孫林父出奔晉。

成公八年

八年春，晉侯使韓穿來言汶陽之田，歸之于齊。〔來言者何？內辭也，脅我使我歸之也。曷為使我歸之？鞍之戰，齊師大敗，齊侯歸，吊死視疾，七年不飲酒、不食肉。晉侯聞之曰：「嘻！奈何使人之君七年不飲酒、不食肉，請皆反其所取侵地。」〕

晉欒書帥師侵蔡。

公孫嬰齊如莒。

宋公使華元來聘。

夏，宋公使公孫壽來納幣。〔納幣不書，此何以書？錄伯姬也。〕

晉殺其大夫趙同、趙括。

秋，七月，天子使召伯來錫公命。〔其稱天子何？元年，春，王正月，正也，其餘皆通矣。〕

冬，十月癸卯，杞叔姬卒。

晉侯使士燮來聘。

叔孫僑如會晉士燮、齊人、邾婁人伐郯。

衛人來媵。〔媵不書，此何以書？錄伯姬也。〕

成公九年

九年春，王正月，杞伯來逆叔姬之喪以歸。〔杞伯曷為來逆叔姬之喪以歸？內辭也，脅而歸之也。〕

公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、杞伯同盟于蒲。公至自會。

二月，伯姬歸于宋。

夏，季孫行父如宋致女。〔未有言致女者，此其言致女何？錄伯姬也。〕

晉人來媵。〔媵不書，此何以書？錄伯姬也。〕

秋，七月丙子，齊侯無野卒。

晉人執鄭伯。

晉欒書帥師伐鄭。

冬，十有一月，葬齊頃公。

楚公子嬰齊帥師伐莒；庚申，莒潰。

楚人入運。

秦人、白狄伐晉。

鄭人圍許。

城中城。

成公十年

十年春，衛侯之弟黑背率師侵鄭。

夏，四月，五卜郊，不從，乃不郊。〔其言乃不郊何？不免牲，故言乃不郊也。〕

五月，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯伐鄭。

齊人來媵。〔媵不書，此何以書？錄伯姬也。三國來媵非禮也，曷為皆以錄伯姬之辭言之？婦人以眾多為侈也。〕

丙午，晉侯獳卒。

秋，七月。

公如晉。

成公十一年

十有一年春，王三月，公至自晉。

晉侯使郤州來聘。己丑，及郤州盟。

夏，季孫行父如晉。

秋，叔孫僑如如齊。

冬，十月。

成公十二年

十有二年春，周公出奔晉。〔周公者何？天子之三公也。王者無外，此其言出何？自其私土而出也。〕

夏，公會晉侯、衛侯于沙澤。

秋，晉人敗狄于交剛。

冬，十月。

成公十三年

十有三年春，晉侯使郤锜來乞師。

三月，公如京師。

夏，五月，公自京師，遂會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、邾婁人、滕人伐秦。〔其言自京師何？公鑿行也。公鑿行奈何？不敢過天子也。〕

曹伯廬卒于師。

秋，七月，公至自伐秦。

冬，葬曹宣公。

成公十四年

十有四年春，王正月，莒子朱卒。

夏，衛孫林父自晉歸于衛。

秋，叔孫僑如如齊逆女。

鄭公子喜率師伐許。

九月，僑如以夫人婦姜氏至自齊。

冬，十月庚寅，衛侯臧卒。

秦伯卒。

成公十五年

十有五年春，王二月，葬衛定公。

三月乙巳，仲嬰齊卒。

癸丑，公會晉侯、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、宋世子成、齊國佐、邾婁人同盟于戚。

晉侯執曹伯歸之于京師。

公至自會。

夏，六月，宋公固卒。

楚子伐鄭。

秋，八月庚辰，葬宋共公。

宋華元出奔晉。

宋華元自晉歸于宋。

宋殺其大夫山。

宋魚石出奔楚。

冬，十有一月，叔孫僑如會晉士燮、齊高無咎、宋華元、衛孫林父、鄭公子鰍、邾婁人會吳于鍾離。〔曷為殊會吳？外吳也。曷為外也？《春秋》內其國而外諸夏，內諸夏而外夷狄。王者欲一乎天下，曷為以外內之辭言之？言自近者始也。〕

許遷于葉。

成公十六年

十有六年春，王正月，雨木冰。〔雨木冰者何？雨而木冰也。何以書？記異也。〕

夏，四月辛未，滕子卒。

鄭公子喜帥師侵宋。

六月丙寅朔，日有食之。

晉侯使欒黡來乞師。

甲午晦。〔晦者何？冥也。何以書？記異也。〕

晉侯及楚子、鄭伯戰于鄢陵，楚子、鄭師敗績。〔敗者稱師，楚何以不稱師？王痍也。王痍者何？傷乎矢也。然則何以不言師敗績？末言爾。〕

楚殺其大夫公子側。

秋，公會晉侯、齊侯、衛侯、宋華元、邾婁人于沙隨。〔不見公，公至自會。不見公者何？公不見見也。公不見見，大夫執。何以致會？不恥也。曷為不恥？公幼也。〕

公會尹子、晉侯、齊國佐、邾婁人伐鄭。

曹伯歸自京師。〔執而歸者名，曹伯何以不名？而不言復歸于曹何？易也。其易奈何？公子喜時在內也。公子喜時在內，則何以易？公子喜時者仁人也。內平其國而待之，外治諸京師而免之。其言自京師何？言甚易也，舍是無難矣！〕

九月，晉人執季孫行父，舍之于招丘。

冬，十月乙亥，叔孫僑如出奔齊。

十有二月乙丑，季孫行父及晉郤州盟于扈。

公至自會。

乙酉，刺公子偃。

成公十七年

十有七年春，衛北宮結率師侵鄭。

夏，公會尹子、單子、晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、邾婁人伐鄭。六月，乙酉，同盟于柯陵。

秋，公至自會。

齊高無咎出奔莒。

九月辛丑，用郊。〔用者何？用者不宜用也。九月非所用郊也。然則郊曷用？郊用正月上辛，或曰用然後郊。〕

晉侯使荀罃來乞師。

冬，公會單子、晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、齊人、邾婁人伐鄭。十有一月，公至自伐鄭。

壬申，公孫嬰齊卒于貍軫。〔非此月日也，曷為以此月日卒之？待君命然後卒大夫。曷為待君命然後卒大夫？前此者嬰齊走之晉，公會晉侯，將執公。嬰齊為公請，公許之反為大夫，歸。至于貍軫而卒。無君命不敢卒大夫，公至，曰：「吾固許之反為大夫。」然後卒之。〕

十有二月丁巳朔，日有食之。

邾婁子貜且卒。

晉殺其大夫郤锜、郤州、郤至。

楚人滅舒庸。

成公十八年

十有八年春，王正月，晉殺其大夫胥童。庚申，晉弒其君州蒲。

齊殺其大夫國佐。

公如晉。

夏，楚子、鄭伯伐宋。

宋魚石復入于彭城。

公至自晉。

晉侯使士丐來聘。

秋，杞伯來朝。八月，邾婁子來朝。

筑鹿囿。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？有囿矣，又為也。〕

己丑，公薨于路寢。

冬，楚人、鄭人侵宋。

晉侯使士彭來乞師。

十有二月，仲孫蔑會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、邾婁子、齊崔杼同盟于虛朾。

丁未，葬我君成公。

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襄公

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襄公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。

仲孫蔑會晉欒黡、宋華元、衛甯殖、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人圍宋彭城。〔宋華元曷為與諸侯圍宋彭城？為宋誅也。其為宋誅奈何？魚石走之楚，楚為之伐宋，取彭城以封魚石。魚石之罪奈何？以入是為罪也。楚已取之矣，曷為系之宋？不與諸侯專封也。〕

夏，晉韓屈帥師伐鄭。

仲孫蔑會齊崔杼、曹人、邾婁人、杞人次于合。

秋，楚公子壬夫帥師侵宋。

九月辛酉，天王崩。

邾婁子來朝。

冬，衛侯使公孫剽來聘。

晉侯使荀罃來聘。

襄公二年

二年春，王正月，葬簡王。

鄭師伐宋。

夏，五月庚寅，夫人姜氏薨。

六月庚辰，鄭伯睔卒。

晉師、宋師、衛甯殖侵鄭。

秋，七月，仲孫蔑會晉荀罃、宋華元、衛孫林父、曹人、邾婁人于戚。

己丑，葬我小君齊姜。〔齊姜者何？齊姜與繆姜，則未知其為宣夫人與？成夫人與？〕

叔孫豹如宋。

冬，仲孫蔑會晉荀罃、齊崔杼、宋華元、衛孫林父、曹人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、小邾婁人于戚，遂城虎牢。虎牢者何？鄭之邑也。其言城之何？取之也。取之則曷為不言取之？為中國諱也。曷為為中國諱？諱伐喪也。曷為不〔系乎鄭？為中國諱也。大夫無遂事，此其言遂何？歸惡乎大夫也。〕

楚殺其大夫公子申。

襄公三年

三年春，楚公子嬰齊帥師伐吳。

公如晉。

夏，四月壬戌，公及晉侯盟于長樗。

公至自晉。

六月，公會單子、晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、莒子、邾婁子、齊世子光；己未，同盟于雞澤。陳侯使袁僑如會。〔其言如會何？後會也。〕

戊寅，叔孫豹及諸侯之大夫及陳袁僑盟。〔曷為殊及陳袁僑？為其與袁僑盟也。〕

秋，公至自會。

冬，晉荀罃帥師伐許。

襄公四年

四年春，王三月己酉，陳侯午卒。

夏，叔孫豹如晉。

秋，七月戊子，夫人弋氏薨。

葬陳成公。

八月辛亥，葬我小君定弋。〔定弋者，襄公之母也。〕

冬，公如晉。

陳人圍頓。

襄公五年

五年春，公至自晉。

夏，鄭伯使公子發來聘。

叔孫豹、鄫世子巫如晉。〔外相如不書，此何以書？為叔孫豹率而與之俱也。叔孫豹則曷為率而與之俱？蓋舅出也。莒將滅之，故相與往殆乎晉也。莒將滅之，則曷為相與往殆乎晉？取後乎莒也。其取後乎莒奈何？莒女有為鄫夫人者，蓋欲立其出也。〕

仲孫蔑、衛孫林父會吳于善稻。

秋，大雩。

楚殺其大夫公子壬夫。

公會晉侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、齊世子光、吳人、鄫人于戚。〔吳何以稱人？吳、鄫人云則不辭。〕

公至自會。

冬，戍陳。〔孰戍之？諸侯戍之。曷為不言諸侯戍之？離至不可得而序，故言我也。〕

楚公子貞帥師伐陳。

公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、齊世子光，救陳。十有二月，公至自救陳。

辛未，季孫行父卒。

襄公六年

六年春，王三月壬午，杞伯姑容卒。

夏，宋華弱來奔。

秋，葬杞桓公。

滕子來朝。

莒人滅鄫。

冬，叔孫豹如邾婁。

季孫宿如晉。

十有二月，齊侯滅萊。〔曷為不言萊君出奔？國滅，君死之，正也。〕

襄公七年

七年春，郯子來朝。

夏，四月，三卜郊，不從，乃免牲。

小邾婁子來朝。

城費。

秋，季孫宿如衛。

八月，螽。

冬，十月，衛侯使孫林父來聘。

壬戌，及孫林父盟。

楚公子貞帥師圍陳。

十有二月，公會晉侯、宋公、陳侯、衛侯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子于鄬。鄭伯髡原如會，未見諸侯；丙戌，卒於操。〔操者何？鄭之邑也。諸侯卒其封內不地，此何以地？隱之也。何隱爾？弒也。孰弒之？其大夫弒之。曷為不言其大夫弒之？為中國諱也。曷為為中國諱？鄭伯將會諸侯于鄬，其大夫諫曰：「中國不足歸也，則不若與楚。」鄭伯曰：「不可。」其大夫曰：「以中國為義，則伐我喪；以中國為強，則不若楚。」於是弒之。鄭伯髡原何以名？傷而反，未至乎舍而卒也。未見諸侯，其言如會何？致其意也。〕

陳侯逃歸。

襄公八年

八年春，王正月，公如晉。

夏，葬鄭僖公。〔賊未討，何以書葬？為中國諱也。〕

鄭人侵蔡，獲蔡公子燮。〔此侵也，其言獲何？侵而言獲者，適得之也。〕

季孫宿會晉侯、鄭伯、齊人、宋人、衛人、邾婁人于刑丘。公至自晉。

莒人伐我東鄙。

秋，九月，大雩。

冬，楚公子貞帥師伐鄭。

晉侯使士丐來聘。

襄公九年

九年春，宋火。〔曷為或言災？或言火？大者曰災，小者曰火。然則內何以不言火？內不言火者，甚之也。何以書？記災也。外災不書，此何以書？為王者之後記災也。〕

夏，季孫宿如晉。

五月辛酉，夫人姜氏薨。

秋，八月癸未，葬我小君繆姜。

冬，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子、齊世子光伐鄭。十有二月己亥，同盟于戲。

楚子伐鄭。

襄公十年

十年春，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子、齊世子光會吳于柤。

夏，五月甲午，遂滅偪陽。公至自會。

楚公子貞、鄭公孫輒帥師伐宋。

晉師伐秦。

秋，莒人伐我東鄙。公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、齊世子光、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子伐鄭。

冬，盜殺鄭公子斐、公子發、公孫輒。〔戍鄭虎牢。孰戍之？諸侯戍之。曷為不言諸侯戍之？離至不可得而序，故言我也。諸侯已取之矣，曷為系之鄭？諸侯莫之主有，故反系之鄭。〕

楚公子貞帥師救鄭。

公至自伐鄭。

襄公十一年

十有一年春，王正月，作三軍。〔三軍者何？三卿也。作三軍，何以書？譏。何譏爾？古者上卿、下卿，上士、下士。〕

夏，四月，四卜郊，不從，乃不郊。

鄭公孫舍之帥師侵宋。

公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、齊世子光、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子伐鄭。

秋，七月己未，同盟于京城北。

公至自伐鄭。

楚子、鄭伯伐宋。

公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、曹伯、齊世子光、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子伐鄭，會于蕭魚。〔此伐鄭也，其言會于蕭魚何？蓋鄭與會爾。〕

公至自會。

楚人執鄭行人良霄。

冬，秦人伐晉。

襄公十二年

十有二年春，王三月，莒人伐我東鄙，圍臺。〔邑不言圍，此其言圍何？伐而言圍者，取邑之辭也；伐而不言圍者，非取邑之辭也。〕

季孫宿帥師救臺，遂入運。〔大夫無遂事，此其言遂何？公不得為政爾。〕

夏，晉侯使士彭來聘。

秋，九月，吳子乘卒。

冬，楚公子貞帥師侵宋。

公如晉。

襄公十三年

十有三年春，公至自晉。

夏，取詩。〔詩者何？邾婁之邑也。曷為不系乎邾婁？諱亟也。〕

秋，九月庚辰，楚子審卒。

冬，城防。

襄公十四年

十有四年春，王正月，季孫宿、叔老會晉士丐、齊人、宋人、衛人、鄭公孫囆、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、杞人、小邾婁人會吳于向。

二月乙未朔，日有食之。

夏，四月，叔孫豹會晉荀偃、齊人、宋人、衛北宮結、鄭公孫囆、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、杞人、小邾婁人伐秦。

己未，衛侯衎出奔齊。

莒人侵我東鄙。

秋，楚公子貞帥師伐吳。

冬，季孫宿會晉士丐、宋華閱、衛孫林父、鄭公孫囆、莒人、邾婁人于戚。

襄公十五年

十有五年春，宋公使向戌來聘。二月己亥，及向戌盟于劉。

劉夏逆王后于齊。劉夏者何？天子之大夫也。〔劉者何？邑也。其稱劉何？以邑氏也。外逆女不書，此何以書？過我也。〕

夏，齊侯伐我北鄙，圍成。公救成，至遇。〔其言至遇何？不敢進也。〕

季孫宿、叔孫豹帥師城成郛。

秋，八月丁巳，日有食之。

邾婁人伐我南鄙。

冬，十有一月癸亥，晉侯周卒。

襄公十六年

十有六年春，王正月，葬晉悼公。

三月，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子于湨梁；戊寅，〔大夫盟。諸侯皆在是，其言大夫盟何？信在大夫也。何言乎信在大夫？遍剌天下之大夫也。曷為遍剌天下之大夫？君若贅旒然。〕

晉人執莒子、邾婁子以歸。

齊侯伐我北鄙。

夏，公至自會。

五月甲子，地震。

叔老會鄭伯、晉荀偃、衛甯殖、宋人，伐許。

秋，齊侯伐我北鄙，圍成。

大雩。

冬，叔孫豹如晉。

襄公十七年

十有七年春，王二月庚午，邾婁子瞷卒。

宋人伐陳。

夏，衛石買帥師伐曹。

秋，齊侯伐我北鄙，圍洮。齊高厚帥師伐我北鄙，圍防。

九月，大雩。

宋華臣出奔陳。

冬，邾婁人伐我南鄙。

襄公十八年

十有八年春，白狄來。〔白狄者何？夷狄之君也。何以不言朝？不能朝也。〕

夏，晉人執衛行人石買。

秋，齊師伐我北鄙。

冬，十月，公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子同圍齊；曹伯負芻卒于師。

楚公子午帥師伐鄭。

襄公十九年

十有九年春，王正月，諸侯盟于祝阿。

晉人執邾婁子。

公至自伐齊。〔此同圍齊也，何以致伐？未圍齊也。未圍齊則其言圍齊何？抑齊也。曷為抑齊？為其亟伐也；或曰為其驕蹇，使其世子處乎諸侯之上也。〕

取邾婁田，自漷水。〔其言自漷水何？以漷為竟也。何言乎以漷為竟？漷移也。〕

季孫宿如晉。

葬曹成公。

夏，衛孫林父帥師伐齊。

秋，七月辛卯，齊侯瑗卒。

晉士丐帥師侵齊，至穀，聞齊侯卒，乃還。〔還者何？善辭也。何善爾？大其不伐喪也。此受命乎君而伐齊，則何大乎其不伐喪？大夫以君命出，進退在大夫也。〕

八月丙辰，仲孫蔑卒。

齊殺其大夫高厚。

鄭殺其大夫公子喜。

冬，葬齊靈公。

城西郛。

叔孫豹會晉士丐于柯。

城武城。

襄公廿年

二十年春，王正月辛亥，仲孫遬會莒人盟于向。

夏，六月庚申，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子盟于澶淵。

秋，公至自會。

仲孫遬帥師伐邾婁。

蔡殺其大夫公子燮。

蔡公子履出奔楚。

陳侯之弟光出奔楚。

叔老如齊。

冬，十月丙辰朔，日有食之。

季孫宿如宋。

襄公廿一年

二十有一年春，王正月，公如晉。

邾婁庶其以漆閭丘來奔。〔邾婁庶其者何？邾婁大夫也。邾婁無大夫，此何以書？重地也。〕

夏，公至自晉。

秋，晉欒盈出奔楚。

九月庚戌朔，日有食之。

冬，十月庚辰朔，日有食之。

曹伯來朝。

公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子于商任。

十有一月庚子，孔子生。

襄公廿二年

二十有二年春，王正月，公至自會。

夏，四月。

秋，七月辛酉，叔老卒。

冬，公會晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子于沙隨。公至自會。

楚殺其大夫公子追舒。

襄公廿三年

二十有三年春，王二月癸酉朔，日有食之。

三月己巳，杞伯丐卒。

夏，邾婁鼻我來奔。〔邾婁鼻我者何？邾婁大夫也。邾婁無大夫，此何以書？以近書也。〕

葬杞孝公。

陳殺其大夫慶虎及慶寅。

陳侯之弟光自楚歸于陳。

晉欒盈復入于晉、入于曲沃。〔曲沃者何？晉之邑也。其言入于晉、入于曲沃何？欒盈將入晉，晉人不納，由乎曲沃而入也。〕

秋，齊侯伐衛，遂伐晉。八月，叔孫豹帥師救晉，次于雍渝。曷為先言救而後言次？先通君命也。

己卯，仲孫遬卒。

冬，十月乙亥，臧孫紇出奔邾婁。

晉人殺欒盈。〔曷為不言殺其大夫？非其大夫也。〕

齊侯襲莒。

襄公廿四年

二十有四年春，叔孫豹如晉。仲孫羯帥師侵齊。夏，楚子伐吳。

秋，七月甲子朔，日有食之，既。

齊崔杼帥師伐莒。

大水。

八月癸巳朔，日有食之。

公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子于陳儀。

冬，楚子、蔡侯、陳侯、許男伐鄭。公至自會。

陳咸宜咎出奔楚。

叔孫豹如京師。

大饑。

襄公廿五年

二十有五年春，齊崔杼帥師伐我北鄙。

夏，五月乙亥，齊崔杼弒其君光。

公會晉侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子于陳儀。

六月壬子，鄭公孫舍之帥師入陳。

秋，八月己巳，諸侯同盟于重丘，公至自會。

衛侯入于陳儀。〔陳儀者何？衛之邑也。曷為不言入于衛？諼君以弒也。〕

楚屈建帥師滅舒鳩。

冬，鄭公孫囆帥師伐陳。

十有二月，吳子謁伐楚，門于巢卒。〔門于巢卒者何？入門乎巢而卒也。入門乎巢而卒者何？入巢之門而卒也。吳子謁，何以名？傷而反，未至乎舍而卒也。〕

襄公廿六年

二十有六年春，王二月辛卯，衛甯喜弒其君剽。衛孫林父入于戚以叛。甲午，衛侯衎復歸于衛。〔此諼君以弒也，其言復歸何？惡剽也。曷為惡剽？剽之立於是未有說也。然則曷為不言剽之立？不言剽之立者，以惡衛侯也。〕

夏，晉侯使荀吳來聘。

公會晉人、鄭良霄、宋人、曹人于澶淵。

秋，宋公弒其世子痤。

晉人執衛甯喜。〔此執有罪，何以不得為伯討？不以其罪執之也。〕

八月壬午，許男甯卒于楚。

冬，楚子、蔡侯、陳侯伐鄭。

葬許靈公。

襄公廿七年

二十有七年春，齊侯使慶封來聘。

夏，叔孫豹會晉趙武、楚屈建、蔡公孫歸生、衛石惡、陳孔瑗、鄭良霄、許人、曹人于宋。

衛殺其大夫甯喜，衛侯之弟鱄出奔晉。〔衛殺其大夫甯喜，則衛侯之弟鱄曷為出奔晉？為殺甯喜出奔也。曷為為殺甯喜出奔？衛甯殖與孫林父逐衛侯而立公孫剽，甯殖病將死，謂喜曰：「黜公者，非吾意也，孫氏為之。我即死，女能固納公乎？」喜曰：「諾。」甯殖死，喜立為大夫，使人謂獻公曰：「黜公者，非甯氏也，孫氏為之。吾欲納公，何如？」獻公曰：「子茍欲納我，吾請與子盟。」喜曰：「無所用盟，請使公子鱄約之。」獻公謂公子鱄曰：「甯氏將納我，吾欲與之盟。其言曰：『無所用盟，請使公子鱄約之。』子固為我與之約矣。」公子鱄辭曰：「夫負羈縶，執鈇锧，從君東西南北，則是臣仆庶孽之事也。若夫約言為信，則非臣仆庶孽之所敢與也。」獻公怒曰：「黜我者，非甯氏與孫氏，凡在爾。」公子鱄不得已而與之約。已約，歸至，殺甯喜。公子鱄挈其妻子而去之，將濟于河，攜其妻子而與之盟，曰：「茍有履衛地、食衛粟者，昧雉彼視。」〕

秋，七月辛巳，豹及諸侯之大夫盟于宋。〔曷為再言豹？殆諸侯也。曷為殆諸侯？為衛石惡在是也，曰惡人之徒在是矣。〕

冬，十有二月乙亥朔，日有食之。

襄公廿八年

二十有八年春，無冰。

夏，衛石惡出奔晉。

邾婁子來朝。

秋，八月，大雩。

仲孫羯如晉。

冬，齊慶封來奔。

十有一月，公如楚。

十有二月甲寅，天王崩。

乙未，楚子昭卒。

襄公廿九年

二十有九年春，王正月，公在楚。〔何言乎公在楚？正月以存君也。〕

夏，五月，公至自楚。

庚午，衛侯衎卒。

閽弒吳子餘祭。〔閽者何？門人也，刑人也。刑人則曷為謂之閽？刑人非其人也。君子不近刑人，近刑人則輕死之道也。〕

仲孫羯會晉荀盈、齊高止、宋華定、衛世叔齊、鄭公孫段、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、小邾婁人城杞。

晉侯使士鞅來聘。

杞子來盟。

吳子使札來聘。〔吳無君、無大夫，此何以有君、有大夫？賢季子也。何賢乎季子？讓國也。其讓國奈何？謁也、餘祭也、夷昧也與季子同母者四，季子弱而才，兄弟皆愛之，同欲立之以為君，謁曰：「今若是迮而與季子國，季子猶不受也，請無與子而與弟，弟兄迭為君，而致國乎季子。」皆曰：「諾。」故諸為君者，皆輕死為勇，飲食必祝，曰：「天茍有吳國，尚速有悔於予身。」故謁也死，餘祭也立。餘祭也死，夷昧也立。夷昧也死，則國宜之季子者也。季子使而亡焉。僚者長庶也，即之，季子使而反，至，而君之爾。闔廬曰：「先君之所以不與子國而與弟者，凡為季子故也。將從先君之命與，則國宜之季子者也；如不從先君之命與，則我宜立者也，僚惡得為君乎？」於是使專諸剌僚，而致國乎季子。季子不受，曰：「爾弒吾君，吾受爾國，是吾與爾為篡也。爾殺吾兄，吾又殺爾，是父子兄弟相殺，終身無已也。」去之延陵，終身不入吳國。故君子以其不受為義，以其不殺為仁。賢季子則吳何以有君、有大夫？以季子為臣，則宜有君者也。札者何？吳季子之名也。《春秋》賢者不名，此何以名？許夷狄者不壹而足也。季子者所賢也，曷為不足乎季子？許人臣者必使臣，許人子者必使子也。〕

秋，九月，葬衛獻公。

齊高止出奔北燕。

冬，仲孫羯如晉。

襄公卅年

三十年春，王正月，楚子使薳頗來聘。

夏，四月，蔡世子般弒其君固。

五月甲午，宋災，伯姬卒。

天王殺其弟年夫。

王子瑕奔晉。

秋，七月，叔弓如宋，葬宋共姬。〔外夫人不書葬，此何以書？隱之也。何隱爾？宋災，伯姬卒焉。其稱謚何？賢也。何賢爾？宋災，伯姬存焉，有司復曰：「火至矣，請出。」伯姬曰：「不可。吾聞之也：婦人夜出，不見傅母不下堂。傅至矣，母未至也。」逮乎火而死。〕

鄭良霄出奔許，自許入于鄭，鄭人殺良霄。

冬，十月，葬蔡景公。賊未討，〔何以書葬？君子辭也。〕

晉人、齊人、宋人、衛人、鄭人、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、杞人、小邾婁人會于澶淵，宋災故。〔宋災故者何？諸侯會于澶淵，凡為宋災故也。會未有言其所為者，此言所為何？錄伯姬也。諸侯相聚，而更宋之所喪，曰：「死者不可復生，爾財復矣！」此大事也，曷為使微者？卿也。卿則其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？卿不得憂諸侯也。〕

襄公卅一年

三十有一年春，王正月。

夏，六月辛巳，公薨于楚宮。

秋，九月癸巳，子野卒。己亥，仲孫羯卒。

冬，十月，滕子來會葬。癸酉，葬我君襄公。

十有一月，莒人弒其君密州。

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昭公

昭公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。

叔孫豹會晉趙武、楚公子圍、齊國酌、宋向戌、衛石惡、陳公子招、蔡公孫歸生、鄭軒虎、許人、曹人于漷。〔此陳侯之弟招也，何以不稱弟？貶。曷爲貶？爲殺世子偃師貶，曰陳侯之弟招殺陳世子偃師。大夫相殺稱人，此其稱名氏以殺何？言將自是弒君也。今將爾，詞曷爲與親弒者同？君親無將，將而必誅焉。然則曷爲不於其弒焉貶？以親者弒，然後其罪惡甚，《春秋》不待貶絕而罪惡見者，不貶絕以見罪惡也。貶絕然然罪惡見者，貶絕以見罪惡也。今招之罪已重矣，曷爲復貶乎此？著招之有罪也。何著乎招之有罪？言楚之托乎討招以滅陳也。〕

三月，取運。〔運者何？內之邑也。其言取之何？不聽也。〕

夏，秦伯之弟鍼出奔晉。〔秦無大夫，此何以書？仕諸晉也。曷爲仕諸晉？有千乘之國，而不能容其母弟，故君子謂之出奔也。〕

六月丁巳，邾婁子華卒。

晉荀吳帥師敗狄于大原。〔此大鹵也，曷爲謂之大原？地物從中國，邑人名從主人。原者何？上平曰原，下平曰隰。〕

秋，莒去疾自齊入于莒。莒展出奔吳。叔弓帥師疆運田。〔疆運田者何？與莒爲竟也。與莒爲竟，則曷爲帥師而往？畏莒也。〕

葬邾婁悼公。

冬，十有一月己酉，楚子卷卒。

楚公子比出奔晉。

昭公二年

二年春，晉侯使韓起來聘。

夏，叔弓如晉。

秋，鄭殺其大夫公孫黑。

冬，公如晉，至河乃復。〔其言至河乃復何？不敢進也。〕

季孫宿如晉。

昭公三年

三年春，王正月丁未，滕子泉卒。

夏，叔弓如滕。

五月，葬滕成公。

秋，小邾婁子來朝。

八月，大雩。

冬，大雨雹。

北燕伯款出奔齊。

昭公四年

四年春，王正月，大雨雪。

夏，楚子、蔡侯、陳侯、鄭伯、許男、徐子、滕子、頓子、胡子、沈子、小邾婁子、宋世子佐、淮夷會于申。

楚人執徐子。

秋，七月，楚子、蔡侯、陳侯、許男、頓子、胡子、沈子、淮夷伐吳，執齊慶封，殺之。〔此伐吳也，其言執齊慶封何？爲齊誅也。其爲齊誅奈何？慶封走之吳，吳封之於防。然則曷爲不言伐防？不與諸侯專封也。慶封之罪何？脅齊君而亂齊國也。遂滅厲。〕

九月，取鄫。〔其言取之何？滅之也。滅之則其言取之何？內大惡，諱也。〕

冬，十有二月乙卯，叔孫豹卒。

昭公五年

五年春，王正月，舍中軍。〔舍中軍者何？復古也。然則曷爲不言三卿？五亦有中，三亦有中。〕

楚殺其大夫屈申。

公如晉。

夏，莒牟夷以牟婁及防茲來奔。〔莒牟夷者何？莒大夫也。莒無大夫，此何以書？重地也。其言及防茲來奔何？不以私邑累公邑也。〕

秋，七月，公至自晉。

戊辰，叔弓帥師敗莒師于濆泉。〔濆泉者何？直泉也。直泉者何？涌泉也。〕

秦伯卒。〔何以不名？秦者夷也，匿嫡之名也。其名何？嫡得之也。〕

冬，楚子、蔡侯、陳侯、許男、頓子、沈子、徐人、越人伐吳。

昭公六年

六年春，王正月，杞伯益姑卒。

葬秦景公。

夏，季孫宿如晉。

葬杞文公。

宋華合比出奔衛。

秋，九月，大雩。

楚薳頗帥師伐吳。

冬，叔弓如楚。

齊侯伐北燕。

昭公七年

七年春，王正月，暨齊平。

三月，公如楚。

叔孫舍如齊蒞盟。

夏，四月甲辰朔，日有食之。

秋，八月戊辰，衛侯惡卒。

九月，公至自楚。

冬，十有一月癸未，季孫宿卒。

十有二月癸亥，葬衛襄公。

昭公八年

八年春，陳侯之弟招殺陳世子偃師。

夏，四月辛丑，陳侯溺卒。

叔弓如晉。

楚人執陳行人于徵師殺之。

陳公子留出奔鄭。

秋，搜于紅。〔搜者何？簡車徒也。何以書？蓋以罕書也。〕

陳人殺其大夫公子過。

大雩。

冬，十月壬午，楚師滅陳，執陳公子招，放之于越，殺陳孔瑗。

葬陳哀公。

昭公九年

九年春，叔弓會楚子于陳。

許遷于夷。

夏，四月，陳火。〔陳已滅矣，其言陳火何？存陳也，曰存陳悕矣！曷爲存陳？滅人之國，執人之罪人，殺人之賊，葬人之君，若是則陳存悕矣〕！

秋，仲孫貜如齊。

冬，筑郎囿。

昭公十年〔前532年己巳〕

十年春，王正月。

夏，晉欒施來奔。

秋，七月，季孫隱如、叔弓、仲孫貜帥師伐莒。

戊子，晉侯彪卒。

九月，叔孫舍如晉。

葬晉平公。

十有二月，甲子，宋公戌卒。

昭公十一年〔前531年庚午〕

十有一年春，王正月，叔弓如宋。

葬宋平公。

夏，四月丁巳，楚子虔誘蔡侯般，殺之于申。〔楚子虔何以名？絕也。曷爲絕之？爲其誘封也。此討賊也，雖誘之則曷爲絕之？懷惡而討不義，君子不予也。〕

楚公子棄疾帥師圍蔡。

五月甲申，夫人歸氏薨。

大搜于比蒲。〔大搜者何？簡車徒也。何以書？蓋以罕書也。〕

仲孫貜會邾婁子，盟于侵羊。

秋，季孫隱如會晉韓起、齊國酌、宋華亥、衛北宮佗、鄭軒虎、曹人、杞人于屈銀。

九月，己亥，葬我小君齊歸。〔齊歸者何？昭公之母也。〕

冬，十有一月丁酉，楚師滅蔡，執蔡世子有以歸，用之。〔此未逾年之君也，其稱世子何？不君靈公，不成其子也。不君靈公，則曷爲不成其子？誅君之子不立，非怒也，無繼也。惡乎用之？用之防也。其用之防奈何？蓋以筑防也。〕

昭公十二年〔前530年辛未〕

十有二年春，齊髙偃師師納北燕伯于陽。〔伯于陽者何？公子陽生也。子曰：『我乃知之矣。』在側者曰：『子茍知之，何以不革？』曰：『如爾所不知何？《春秋》之信史也，其序則齊桓、晉文，其會則主會者爲之也，其詞則丘有罪焉耳！』〕

三月壬申，鄭伯嘉卒。

夏，宋公使華定來聘。

公如晉，至河乃復。

五月，葬鄭簡公。

楚殺其大夫成然。

秋，七月。

冬，十月，公子整出奔齊。

楚子伐徐。

晉伐鮮虞。

昭公十三年

十有三年春，叔弓帥師圍費。

夏，四月，楚公子比自晉歸于楚，弒其君虔于乾溪。〔此弒其君，其言歸何？歸無惡於弒立也。歸無惡於弒立者何？靈王爲無道，作乾溪之臺，三年不成，楚公子棄疾脅比而立之。然後令于乾溪之役曰：『比已立矣，後歸者不得復其田里。』眾罷而去之，靈王經而死。楚公子棄疾弒公子比，比已立矣，其稱公子何？其意不當也。其意不當，則曷爲加弒焉爾？比之義宜乎效死不立。大夫相殺稱人，此其稱名氏以弒何？言將自是爲君也。〕

秋，公會劉子、晉侯、齊侯、宋公、衛侯、鄭伯、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子于平丘。八月甲戌，同盟于平丘；公不與盟，晉人執季孫隱如以歸。公至自會。〔公不與盟者何？公不見與盟也。公不見與盟，大夫執，何以致會？不恥也。曷爲不恥？諸侯遂亂，反陳、蔡，君子不恥不與焉！〕

蔡侯廬歸于蔡。陳侯吳歸于陳。〔此皆滅國也，其言歸何？不與諸侯專封也。〕

冬，十月，葬蔡靈公。

公如晉，至河乃復。

吳滅州來。

昭公十四年

十有四年春，隱如至自晉。

三月，曹伯滕卒。

夏，四月。

秋，葬曹武公。

八月，莒子去疾卒。

冬，莒殺其公子意恢。

昭公十五年

十有五年春，王正月，吳子夷昧卒。

二月癸酉，有事于武宮。

龠入，叔弓卒，去樂卒事。〔其言去樂卒事何？禮也。君有事于廟，聞大夫之喪，去樂，卒事。大夫聞君之喪，攝主而往。大夫聞大夫之喪，尸事畢而往。〕

夏，蔡昭吳奔鄭。

六月丁巳朔，日有食之。

秋，晉荀吳帥師伐鮮虞。

冬，公如晉。

昭公十六年

十有六年春，齊侯伐徐。

楚子誘戎曼子，殺之。〔楚子何以不名？夷狄相誘，君子不疾也。曷爲不疾？若不疾，乃疾之也。〕

夏，公至自晉。

秋，八月己亥，晉侯夷卒。

九月，大雩。

季孫隱如如晉。

冬，十月，葬晉昭公。

昭公十七年

十有七年春，小邾婁子來朝。

夏，六月甲戌朔，日有食之。

秋，郯子來朝。

八月，晉荀吳帥師滅賁渾戎。

冬，有星孛于大辰。〔孛者何？彗星也。其言于大辰何？在大辰也。大辰者何？大火也。大火爲大辰，伐爲大辰，北辰亦爲大辰。何以書？記異也。〕

楚人及吳戰于長岸。〔詐戰不言戰，此其言戰何？敵也。〕

昭公十八年

十有八年春，王三月，曹伯須卒。

夏，五月，壬午，宋、衛、陳、鄭災。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？異其同日而俱災也。外異不書，此何以書？爲天下記異也。〕

六月，邾婁人入鄅。

秋，葬曹平公。

冬，許遷于白羽。

昭公十九年

十有九年春，宋公伐邾婁。

夏，五月戊辰，許世子止弒其君買。

己卯，地震。

秋，齊髙發帥師伐莒。

冬，葬許悼公。〔賊未討，何以書葬？不成于弒也。曷爲不成于弒？止進藥而藥殺也。止進藥而藥殺，則曷爲加弒焉爾？譏子道之不盡也。其譏子道之不盡奈何？曰：樂正子春之視疾也。復加一飯則脫然愈，復損一飯則脫然愈；復加一衣則脫然愈，復損一衣則脫然愈。止進藥而藥殺，是以君子加弒焉爾，曰『許世子止弒其君買』，是君子之聽止也；『葬許悼公』，是君子之赦止也。赦止者，免止之罪辭也。〕

昭公廿年

廿年春，王正月。

夏，曹公孫會自鄸出奔宋。〔奔未有言自者，此其言自何？畔也。畔則曷爲不言其畔？爲公子喜時之後諱也。《春秋》爲賢者諱。何賢乎公子喜時？讓國也。其讓國奈何？曹伯廬卒于師，則未知公子喜時從與？公子負芻從與？或爲主于國？或爲主于師？公子喜時見公子負芻之當主也，逡巡而退。賢公子喜時，則曷爲爲會諱？君子之善善也長，惡惡也短，惡惡止其身，善善及子孫。賢者子孫，故君子爲之諱也。〕

秋，盜殺衛侯之兄輒。〔母兄稱兄，兄何以不立？有疾也。何疾爾？惡疾也。〕

冬，十月，宋華亥、向甯、華定出奔陳。

十有一月辛卯，蔡侯廬卒。

昭公廿一年

廿有一年春，王三月，葬蔡平公。

夏，晉侯使士鞅來聘。

宋華亥、向甯、華定自陳入于宋南里以畔。〔宋南里者何？若曰：因諸者然。〕

秋，七月壬午朔，日有食之。

八月乙亥，叔痤卒。

冬，蔡侯朱出奔楚。

公如晉，至河乃復。

昭公廿二年

廿有二年春，齊侯伐莒。

宋華亥、向甯、華定自宋南里出奔楚。

大搜于昌奸。

夏，四月乙丑，天王崩。

六月，叔鞅如亰師。

葬景王。

王室亂。〔何言乎王室亂？言不及外也。〕

劉子、單子以王猛居于皇。〔其稱王猛何？當國也。〕

秋，劉子、單子以王猛入于王城。〔王城者何？西周也。其言入何？篡辭也。〕

冬，十月，王子猛卒。〔此未逾年之君也，其稱王子猛卒何？不與當也。不與當者，不與當父死子繼、兄死弟及之辭也。〕

十有二月癸酉朔，日有食之。

昭公廿三年

廿有三年春，王正月，叔孫舍如晉。

癸丑，叔鞅卒。

晉人執我行人叔孫舍。

晉人圍郊。〔郊者何？天子之邑也。曷爲不系于周？不與伐天子也。〕

夏，六月，蔡侯東國卒于楚。

秋，七月，莒子庚輿來奔。

戊辰，吳敗頓、胡、沈、蔡、陳、許之師于雞父。〔胡子髡、沈子楹滅，獲陳夏嚙。此偏戰也，曷爲以詐戰之辭言之？不與夷狄之主中國也。然則曷爲不使中國主之？中國亦新夷狄也。其言滅獲何？別君臣也，君死于位曰滅，生得曰獲，大夫生死皆曰獲。不與夷狄之主中國，則其言獲陳夏嚙何？吳少進也。〕

天王居于狄泉。〔此未三年，其稱天王何？著有天子也。〕

尹氏立王子朝。

八月乙未，地震。

冬，公如晉，至河，公有疾，乃復。〔（傳）何言乎公有疾乃復？殺恥也。〕

昭公廿四年

廿有四年春，王二月丙戌，仲孫貜卒。

叔孫舍至自晉。

夏，五月乙未朔，日有食之。

秋，八月，大雩。

丁酉，杞伯郁厘卒。

冬，吳滅巢。

葬杞平公。

昭公廿五年

廿有五年春，叔孫舍如宋。

夏，叔倪會晉趙鞅、宋樂世心、衛北宮喜、鄭游吉、曹人、邾婁人、滕人、薛人、小邾婁人于黃父。

有鸛鵒來巢。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？非中國之禽也，宜穴又巢也。〕

秋，七月上辛，大雩。季辛，又雩。〔又雩者何？又雩者非雩也，聚眾以逐季氏也。〕

九月己亥，公孫于齊，次于楊州。

齊侯唁公于野井。〔唁公者何？昭公將弒季氏，告子家駒曰：『季氏爲無道，僭於公室久矣，吾欲弒之，何如？』子家駒曰：『諸侯僭於天子，大夫僭於諸侯久矣！』昭公曰：『吾何僭矣哉？』子家駒曰：『設兩觀，乘大路，朱干，玉戚，以舞《大夏》，八佾以舞《大武》，此皆天子之禮也。且夫牛馬維婁，委己者也，而柔焉。季氏得民眾久矣，君無多辱焉！』昭公不從其言，終弒之而敗焉。走之齊，齊侯唁公于野井，曰：『奈何君去魯國之社稷？』昭公曰：『喪人不佞，失守魯國之社稷，執事以羞。』再拜顙，慶子家駒曰：『慶子免君於大難矣。』子家駒曰：『臣不佞，陷君於大難，君不忍加之以鈇锧，賜之以死。』再拜顙。髙子執簞食與四脡脯，國子執壺漿，曰：『吾寡君聞君在外，餕饔未就，敢致糗于從者。』昭公曰：『君不忘吾先君，延及喪人，錫之以大禮。』再拜稽首，以衽受。髙子曰：『有夫不祥，君無所辱大禮。』昭公蓋祭而不嘗。景公曰：『寡人有不腆先君之服，未之敢服；有不腆先君之器，未之敢用，敢以請。』昭公曰：『喪人不佞，失守魯國之社稷，執事以羞，敢辱大禮？敢辭。』景公曰：『寡人有不腆先君之服，未之敢服；有不腆先君之器，未之敢用，敢固以請。』昭公曰：『以吾宗廟之在魯地，有先君之服，未之能以服；有先君之器，未之能以出，敢固辭。』景公曰：『寡人有不腆先君之服，未之敢服；有不腆先君之器，未之敢用，請以饗乎從者。』昭公曰：『喪人其何稱？』景公曰：『孰君而無稱？』昭公於是噭然而哭，諸大夫皆哭。既哭以人爲菑，以幦爲席，以鞍爲幾，以遇禮相見。孔子曰：『其禮與！其辭足觀矣！』〕

冬，十月戊辰，叔孫舍卒。

十有一月己亥，宋公佐卒于曲棘。〔曲棘者何？宋之邑也。諸侯卒其封內不地，此何以地？憂內也。〕

十有二月，齊侯取運。〔外取邑不書？此何以書？爲公取之也。〕

昭公廿六年

廿有六年春，王正月，葬宋元公。

三月，公至自齊，居于運。

夏，公圍成。

秋，公會齊侯、莒子、邾婁子，杞伯盟于剸陵。公至自會，居于運。

九月庚申，楚子居卒。

冬，十月，天王入于成周。〔成周者何？東周也。其言入何？不嫌也。〕

尹氏、召伯、毛伯以王子朝奔楚。

昭公廿七年

廿有七年春，公如齊。公至自齊，居于運。

夏，四月，吳弒其君僚。

楚殺其大夫郤宛。

秋，晉士鞅、宋樂祁犁、衛北宮喜、曹人、邾婁人、滕人會于扈。

冬，十月，曹伯午卒。

邾婁快來奔。〔邾婁快者何？邾婁之大夫也。邾婁無大夫，此何以書？以近書也。〕

公如齊，公至自齊，居于運。

昭公廿八年

廿有八年春，王三月，葬曹悼公。

公如晉，次于乾侯。

夏，四月丙戌，鄭伯甯卒。六月，葬鄭定公。

秋，七月癸巳，滕子甯卒。

冬，葬滕悼公。

昭公廿九年

廿有九年春，公至自乾侯，居于運。

齊侯使髙張來唁公。

公如晉，次于乾侯。

夏，四月庚子，叔倪卒。

秋，七月。

冬，十月，運潰。邑不言潰，〔此其言潰何？郛之也。曷爲郛之？君存焉爾。〕

昭公卅年

卅年春，王正月，公在乾侯。

夏，六月庚辰，晉侯去疾卒。

秋，八月，葬晉頃公。

冬，十有二月，吳滅徐，徐子章禹奔楚。

昭公卅一年

卅有一年春，王正月，公在乾侯。

季孫隱如會晉荀櫟于適歷。

夏，四月丁巳，薛伯穀卒。

晉侯使荀櫟唁公于乾侯。

秋，葬薛獻公。

冬，黑弓以濫來奔。〔文何以無邾婁？通濫也。曷爲通濫？賢者子孫宜有地也。賢者孰謂？謂叔術也。何賢乎叔術？讓國也。其讓國奈何？當邾婁顏之時，邾婁女有爲魯夫人者，則未知其爲武公與？懿公與？孝公幼，顏淫九公子于宮中，因以納賊，則未知其爲魯公子與？邾婁公子與？臧氏之母，養公者也。君幼則宜有養者，大夫之妾，士之妻，則未知臧氏之母者曷爲者也？養公者必以其子入養。臧氏之母聞有賊，以其子易公，抱公以逃。賊至，湊公寢而弒之。臣有鮑廣父與梁買子者，聞有賊，趨而至。臧氏之母曰：『公不死也，在是，吾以吾子易公矣。』於是負孝公之周訴天子，天子爲之誅顏而立叔術，反孝公于魯。顏夫人者，嫗盈女也，國色也，其言曰：『有能爲我殺殺顏者，吾爲其妻。』叔術爲之殺殺顏者，而以爲妻，有子焉，謂之盱。夏父者，其所爲有於顏者也。盱幼而皆愛之，食必坐二子於其側而食之，有珍怪之食，盱必先取足焉。夏父曰：『以來，人未足而盱有餘。』叔術覺焉，曰：『嘻！此誠爾國也夫！』起而致國于夏父，夏父受而中分之，叔術曰：『不可！』三分之，叔術曰：『不可！』四分之，叔術曰：『不可！』五分之，然後受之。公扈子者，邾婁之父兄也，習乎邾婁之故，其言曰：『惡有言人之國賢若此者乎！』誅顏之時，天子死，叔術起而致國于夏父。當此之時，邾婁人常被兵于周，曰：『何故死吾天子？』通濫則文何以無邾婁？天下未有濫也。天下未有濫，則其言以濫來奔何？叔術者，賢大夫也，絕之則爲叔術不欲絕，不絕則世大夫也。大夫之義不得世，故於是推而通之也。〕

十有二月辛亥朔，日有食之。

昭公卅二年

卅有二年春，王正月，公在乾侯。

取闞。〔闞者何？邾婁之邑也。曷爲不系乎邾婁？諱亟也。〕

夏，吳伐越。

秋，七月。

冬，仲孫何忌會晉韓不信、齊髙張、宋仲幾、衛世叔申、鄭國參、曹人、莒人、邾婁人、薛人、杞人、小邾婁人城成周。

十有二月，己未，公薨于乾侯。

定公

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定公元年

元年春王。〔定何以無正月？正月者，正即位也。定無正月者，即位後也。即位何以後？昭公在外，得入不得入，未可知也。曷為未可知？在季氏也。定、哀多微辭，主人習其讀而問其傳，則未知己之有罪焉爾。〕

三月，晉人執宋仲幾于京師。〔仲幾之罪何？不哀城也。其言于京師何？伯討也。伯討則其稱人何？貶。曷為貶？不與大王專執也。曷為不與？實與而文不與。文曷為不與？大夫之義，不得專執也。〕

夏，六月癸亥，公之喪至自乾侯。戊辰，公即位。〔癸亥公之喪至自乾侯，則曷為以戊辰之日然後即位？正棺於兩楹之間，然後即位。子沈子曰：「定君乎國，然後即位。」即位不日，此何以日？錄乎內也。〕

秋，七月癸巳，葬我君昭公。

九月，大雩。

立煬宮。〔煬宮者何？煬公之宮也。立者何？立者不宜立也。立煬宮，非禮也。〕

冬，十月，隕霜殺菽。〔何以書？記異也。此災菽也，曷為以異書？異大乎災也。〕

定公二年

二年春，王正月。

夏，五月壬辰，雉門及兩觀災。〔其言雉門及兩觀災何？兩觀微也。然則曷為不言雉門災及兩觀？主災者兩觀也。時災者兩觀，則曷為後言之？不以微及大也。何以書？記災也。〕

秋，楚人伐吳。

冬，十月，新作雉門及兩觀。〔其言新作之何？修大也。修舊不書，此何以書？譏。何譏爾？不務乎公室也。〕

定公三年

三年春，王正月，公如晉，至河乃復。三月辛卯，邾婁子穿卒。

夏，四月。

秋，葬邾婁莊公。

冬，仲孫何忌及邾婁子盟于枝。

定公四年

四年春，王二月癸巳，陳侯吳卒。

三月，公會劉子、晉侯、宋公、蔡侯、衛侯、陳子、鄭伯、許男、曹伯、莒子、邾婁子、頓子、胡子、滕子、薛伯、杞伯、小邾婁子、齊國夏于召陵，侵楚。

夏，四月庚辰，蔡公孫歸姓帥師滅沈，以沈子嘉歸，殺之。

五月，公及諸侯盟于浩油；杞伯戊卒于會。

六月，葬陳惠公。

許遷于容城。

秋，七月，公至自會。

劉卷卒。〔劉卷者何？天子之大夫也。外大夫不卒，此何以卒？我主之也。〕

葬杞悼公。

楚人圍蔡。

晉士鞅、衛孔圄帥師伐鮮虞。

葬劉文公。〔外大夫不書葬，此何以書葬？錄我主也。〕

冬，十有一月庚午，蔡侯以吳子及楚人戰于伯莒，楚師敗績。〔吳何以稱子？夷狄也而憂中國。其憂中國奈何？伍子胥父誅乎楚，挾弓而去楚，以干闔廬。闔廬曰：「士之甚！勇之甚！將為之興師而復讎于楚。」伍子胥復曰：「諸侯不為匹夫興師，且臣聞之：事君猶事父也。虧君之義，復父之讎，臣不為也。」於是止。蔡昭公朝乎楚，有美裘焉，囊瓦求之，昭公不與，為是拘昭公於南郢，數年然後歸之。於其歸焉，用事乎河，曰：「天下諸侯茍有能伐楚者，寡人請為之前列。」楚人聞之怒。為是興師，使囊瓦將而伐蔡。蔡請救于吳，伍子胥復曰：「蔡非有罪也，楚人為無道，君如有憂中國之心，則若時可矣。」於是興師而救蔡。曰：事君猶事父也，此其為可以復讎奈何？曰：父不受誅，子復讎可也；父受誅，子復讎，推刃之道也。復讎不徐害，朋友相衛，而不相迿，古之道也。〕

楚囊瓦出奔鄭。

庚辰，吳入楚。〔吳何以不稱子？反夷狄也。其反夷狄奈何？君舍于君室，大夫舍于大夫室，蓋妻楚王之母也。〕

定公五年

五年春，王正月辛亥朔，日有食之。

夏，歸粟于蔡。〔孰歸之？諸侯歸之。曷為不言諸侯歸之？離至不可得而序，故言我也。〕

於越入吳。〔於越者何？越者何？於越者，未能以其名通也。越者，能以其名通也。〕

六月丙申，季孫隱如卒。

秋，七月壬子，叔孫不敢卒。

冬，晉士鞅帥師圍鮮虞。

定公六年

六年春，王正月癸亥，鄭游遬帥師滅許，以許男斯歸。

二月，公侵鄭。

公至自侵鄭。

夏，季孫斯、仲孫何忌如晉。

秋，晉人執宋行人樂祁犁。

冬，城中城。

季孫斯、仲孫忌帥師圍運。〔此仲孫何忌也，曷為謂之仲孫忌？譏二名。二名，非禮也。〕

定公七年

七年春，王正月。

夏，四月。

秋，齊侯、鄭伯盟于鹹。

齊人執衛行人北宮結，以侵衛。

齊侯、衛侯盟于沙澤。

大雩。

齊國夏帥師伐我西鄙。

九月，大雩。

冬，十月。

定公八年

八年春，王正月，公侵齊。公至自侵齊。

二月，公侵齊。三月，公至自侵齊。

曹伯露卒。

夏，齊國夏帥師伐我西鄙。

公會晉師于瓦，公至自瓦。

秋，七月戊辰，陳侯柳卒。

晉趙鞅帥師侵鄭，遂侵衛。

葬曹靖公。

九月，葬陳懷公。

季孫斯、仲孫何忌帥師侵衛。

冬，衛侯、鄭伯盟于曲濮。

從祀先公。〔從祀者何？順祀也。文公逆祀，去者三人；定公順祀，叛者五人。〕

盜竊寶玉、大弓。〔盜者孰謂？謂陽虎也。陽虎者，曷為者也？季氏之宰也。季氏之宰則微者也，惡乎得國寶而竊之？陽虎專季氏，季氏專魯國，陽虎拘季孫，孟氏與叔孫氏迭而食之。睋而鋟其板，曰：「某月某日，將殺我于蒲圃，力能救我則於是。」至乎日若時而出。臨南者，陽虎之出也，御之。於其乘焉，季孫謂臨南曰：「以季氏之世世有子，子可以不免我死乎？」臨南曰：「有力不足，臣何敢不勉。」陽越者，陽虎之從弟也，為右。諸陽之從者，車數十乘，至于孟衢，臨南投策而墜之，陽越下取策，臨南駷馬，而由乎孟氏，陽虎從而射之，矢著于莊門。然而甲起於琴如。弒不成，卻反舍于郊，皆說然息。或曰：「弒千乘之主，而不克舍此，可乎？」陽虎曰：「夫孺子得國而已，如丈夫何？」睋而曰：「彼哉！彼哉！趣駕。」既駕，公斂處父帥師而至，慬然後得免，自是走之晉。寶者何？璋判白，弓繡質，龜青純。〕

定公九年

九年春，王正月。

夏，四月戊申，鄭伯囆卒。

得寶玉、大弓。〔何以書？國寶也，喪之書，得之書。〕

六月，葬鄭獻公。

秋，齊侯、衛侯次于五氏。

秦伯卒。

冬，葬秦哀公。

定公十年

十年春，王三月，及齊平。

夏，公會齊侯于頰穀。公至自頰穀。

晉趙鞅帥師圍衛。

齊人來歸運、讙、龜陰田。〔齊人曷為來歸運、讙、龜陰田？孔子行乎季孫，三月不違，齊人為是來歸之。〕

叔孫州仇、仲孫何忌帥師圍郈。

秋，叔孫州仇、仲孫何忌帥師圍費。

宋樂世心出奔曹。宋公子池出奔陳。

冬，齊侯、衛侯、鄭游遬會于鞍。

叔孫州仇如齊。

齊公之弟辰暨宋仲佗、石彄出奔陳。

定公十一年

十有一年春，宋公之弟辰及仲佗、石彄、公子池，自陳入于蕭，以叛。

夏，四月。

秋，宋樂世心自曹入于蕭。

冬，及鄭平。

叔還如鄭蒞盟。

定公十二年

十有二年春，薛伯定卒。

夏，葬薛襄公。

叔孫州仇帥師墮郈。

衛公孟彄帥師伐曹。

季孫斯、仲孫何忌帥師墮費。〔曷為帥師墮郈？帥師墮費？孔子行乎季孫，三月不違，曰：「家不藏甲，邑無百雉之城。」於是帥師墮郈，帥師墮費。雉者何？五板而堵，五堵而雉，百雉而城。〕

秋，大雩。

冬，十月癸亥，公會晉侯，盟于黃。

十有一月丙寅朔，日有食之。公至自黃。

十有二月，公圍成，公至自圍成。

定公十三年

十有三年春，齊侯、衛侯次于垂瑕。

夏，筑蛇淵囿。

大搜于比蒲。

衛公孟彄帥師伐曹。

秋，晉趙鞅入于晉陽，以叛。

冬，晉荀寅及士吉射入于朝歌，以叛。

晉趙鞅歸于晉。〔此叛也，其言歸何？以地正國也。其以地正國奈何？晉趙鞅取晉陽之甲以逐荀寅與士吉射。荀寅與士吉射者，曷為者也？君側之惡人也。此逐君側之惡人，曷為以叛言之？無君命也。（經十三·八）薛弒其君比。〕

定公十四年

十有四年春，衛公叔戍來奔。

晉趙陽出奔宋。

二月辛巳，楚公子結、陳公子佗人帥師滅頓，以頓子牄歸。

夏，衛北宮結來奔。

五月，於越敗吳于醉李。

吳子光卒。

公會齊侯、衛侯于堅。公至自會。

秋，齊侯、宋公會于洮。

天王使石尚來歸脤。〔石尚者何？天子之士也。脤者何？俎實也。腥曰脤，熟曰燔。〕

衛世子蒯瞆出奔宋。

衛公孟彄出奔鄭。

宋公之弟辰自蕭來奔。

大搜于比蒲。

邾婁子來會公。

城莒父及霄。

定公十五年

十有五年春，王正月，邾婁子來朝。

鼷鼠食郊牛，牛死，改卜牛。〔曷為不言其所食？漫也。〕

二月，辛丑，楚子滅胡，以胡子豹歸。

夏，五月辛亥，郊。〔曷為以夏五月郊？三卜之運也。〕

壬申，公薨于高寢。

鄭軒達帥師伐宋。

齊侯、衛侯次于籧篨。

邾婁子來奔喪。〔其言來奔喪何？奔喪，非禮也。〕

秋，七月壬申，姒氏卒。〔姒氏者何？哀公之母也。何以不稱夫人？哀未君也。〕

八月庚辰朔，日有食之。

九月，滕子來會葬。

丁巳，葬我君定公，雨不克葬；戊午，日下昃，乃克葬。辛巳，葬定姒。〔定姒何以書葬？未逾年之君也，有子則廟，廟則書葬。〕

冬，城漆。

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哀公

上一篇　回目录

哀公元年

元年春，王正月，公即位。

楚子、陳侯、隨侯、許男圍蔡。

鼷鼠食郊牛，改卜牛。

夏，四月辛巳，郊。

秋，齊侯、衛侯伐晉。

冬，仲孫何忌帥師伐邾婁。

哀公二年

二年春，王二月，季孫斯、叔孫州仇、仲孫何忌帥師伐邾婁，取漷東田及沂西田。癸巳，叔孫州仇、仲孫何忌及邾婁子盟于句繹。

夏，四月丙子，衛侯元卒；滕子來朝；晉趙鞅帥師納衛世子蒯瞆于戚。〔戚者何？衛之邑也。曷為不言入于衛？父有子，子不得有父也。〕

秋，八月甲戌，晉趙鞅帥師及鄭軒達帥師戰于栗，鄭師敗績。

冬，十月，葬衛靈公。十有一月，蔡遷于州來；蔡殺其大夫公子駟。

哀公三年

三年春，齊國夏、衛石曼姑帥師圍戚。〔齊國夏曷為與衛石曼姑帥師圍戚？伯討也。此其為伯討奈何？曼姑受命乎靈公而立輒，以曼姑之義為固，可以距之也。輒者曷為者也？蒯瞆之子也。然則曷為不立蒯瞆而立輒？蒯瞆為無道，靈公逐蒯瞆而立輒。然則輒之義可以立乎？曰：可。其可奈何？不以父命辭王父命，以王父命辭父命，是父之行乎子也；不以家事辭王事，以王事辭家事，是上之行乎下也。〕

夏，四月甲午，地震。

五月辛卯，桓宮、僖宮災。〔此皆毀廟也，其言災何？復立也。曷為不言其復立？《春秋》見者不復見也。何以不言及？敵也。何以書？記災也。〕

季孫斯、叔孫州仇帥師城開陽。

宋樂髡帥師伐曹。

秋，七月丙子，季孫斯卒。

蔡人放其大夫公孫獵于吳。

冬，十月癸卯，秦伯卒。

叔孫州仇、仲孫何忌帥師圍邾婁。

哀公四年

四年春，王三月庚戌，盜殺蔡侯申。〔弒君賤者窮諸人，此其稱盜以弒何？賤乎賤者也。賤乎賤者孰謂？謂罪人也。〕

蔡公孫辰出奔吳。

葬秦惠公。

宋人執小邾婁子。

夏，蔡殺其大夫公孫歸姓、公孫霍。

晉人執戎曼子赤歸于楚。〔赤者何？戎曼子之名也。其言歸于楚何？子北宮子曰：「辟伯晉而京師楚也。」〕

城西郛。

六月辛丑，蒲社災。〔蒲社者何？亡國之社也。社者封也，其言災何？亡國之社蓋掩之，掩其上而柴其下。蒲社災，何以書？記災也。〕

秋，八月甲寅，滕子結卒。

冬，十有二月，葬蔡昭公。

葬滕頃公。

哀公五年

五年春，城比。

夏，齊侯伐宋。

晉趙鞅帥師伐衛。

秋，九月癸酉，齊侯處臼卒。

冬，叔還如齊。

閏月，葬齊景公。〔閏不書，此何以書？喪以閏數也。喪曷為以閏數？喪數略也。〕

哀公六年

六年春，城邾婁葭。

晉趙鞅帥師伐鮮虞。

吳伐陳。

夏，齊國夏及高張來奔。

叔還會吳于柤。

秋，七月庚寅，楚子軫卒。

齊陽生入于齊。

齊陳乞弒其君舍。〔弒而立者，不以當國之辭言之，此其以當國之辭言之何？為諼也。此其為諼奈何？景公謂陳乞曰：「吾欲立舍，何如？」陳乞曰：「所樂乎為君者，欲立之則立之，不欲立則不立。君如欲立之，則臣請立之。」陽生謂陳乞曰：「吾聞子蓋將不欲立我也。」陳乞曰：「夫千乘之主，將廢正而立不正，必殺正者。吾不立子者，所以生子者也。走矣！」與之玉節而走之。景公死而舍立。陳乞使人迎陽生于諸其家。除景公之喪，諸大夫皆在朝，陳乞曰：「常之母有魚菽之祭，愿諸大夫之化我也。」諸大夫皆曰：「諾。」於是皆之陳乞之家坐。陳乞曰：「吾有所為甲，請以示焉。」諸大夫皆曰：「諾。」於是使力士舉巨囊而至于中溜，諸大夫見之，皆色然而駭，開之則闖然公子陽生也。陳乞曰：「此君也已！」諸大夫不得已皆逡巡北面，再拜稽首而君之爾，自是往弒舍。〕

冬，仲孫何忌帥師伐邾婁。

宋向巢帥師伐曹。

哀公七年

七年春，宋皇瑗帥師侵鄭。

晉魏曼多帥師侵衛。

夏，公會吳于鄫。

秋，公伐邾婁。

八月己酉，入邾婁，以邾婁子益來。〔入不言伐，此其言伐何？內辭也，若使他人然。邾婁子益何以名？絕。曷為絕之？獲也。曷為不言其獲？內大惡，諱也。〕

宋人圍曹。

冬，鄭駟弘帥師救曹。

哀公八年

八年春，王正月，宋公入曹，以曹伯陽歸。〔曹伯陽何以名？絕之。曷為絕之？滅也。曷為不言其滅？諱同姓之滅也。何諱乎同姓之滅？力能救之而不救也。〕

吳伐我。

夏，齊人取讙及僤。〔外取邑不書，此何以書？所以賂齊也。曷為賂齊？為以邾婁子益來也。〕

歸邾婁子益于邾婁。

秋，七月。

冬，十有二月癸亥，杞伯過卒。

齊人歸讙及僤。

哀公九年

九年春，王二月，葬杞僖公。

宋皇瑗帥師取鄭師于雍丘。〔其言取之何？易也。其易奈何？詐之也。〕

夏，楚人伐陳。

秋，宋公伐鄭。

冬，十月。

哀公十年

十年春，王二月，邾婁子益來奔。

公會吳伐齊。

三月戊戌，齊侯陽生卒。

夏，宋人伐鄭。

晉趙鞅帥師侵齊。

五月，公至自伐齊。

葬齊悼公。

衛公孟彄自齊歸于衛。

薛伯寅卒。

秋，葬薛惠公。

冬，楚公子結帥師伐陳。

吳救陳。

哀公十一年

十有一年春，齊國書帥師伐我。

夏，陳袁頗出奔鄭。

五月，公會吳伐齊；甲戌，齊國書帥師及吳戰于艾陵，齊師敗績，獲齊國書。

秋，七月辛酉，滕子虞母卒。

冬，十有一月，葬滕隱公。

衛世叔齊出奔宋。

哀公十二年

十有二年春，用田賦。〔何以書？譏。何譏爾？譏始用田賦也。〕

夏，五月甲辰，孟子卒。〔孟子者何？昭公之夫人也。其稱孟子何？諱娶同姓，蓋吳女也。〕

公會吳于橐皋。

秋，公會衛侯、宋皇瑗于運。

宋向巢帥師伐鄭。

冬，十有二月，螽。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？不時也。〕

哀公十三年

十有三年春，鄭軒達帥師取宋于嵒。〔其言取之何？易也。其易奈何？詐反也。〕

夏，許男戌卒。

公會晉侯及吳子于黃池。〔吳何以稱子？吳主會也。吳主會則曷為先言晉侯？不與夷狄之主中國也。其言及吳子何？會兩伯之辭也。不與夷狄之主中國，則曷為以會兩伯之辭言之？重吳也。曷為重吳？吳在是則天下諸侯莫敢不至也。〕

楚公子申帥師伐陳。

於越入吳。

秋，公至自會。

晉魏多帥師侵衛。〔此晉魏曼多也，曷為謂之晉魏多？譏二名，二名非禮也。〕

葬許元公。

九月，螽。

冬，十有一月，有星孛于東方。〔孛者何？彗星也。其言于東方何？見于旦也。何以書？記異也。〕

盜殺陳夏彄夫。

十有二月，螽。

哀公十四年

十有四年春，西狩獲麟。〔何以書？記異也。何異爾？非中國之獸也。然則孰狩之？薪采者也。薪采者則微者也，曷為以狩言之？大之也。曷為大之？為獲麟大之也。曷為獲麟大之？麟者仁獸也。有王者則至，無王者則不至。有以告者曰：「有麇而角者。」孔子曰：「孰為來哉！孰為來哉！」反袂拭面，涕沾袍。顏淵死，子曰：「噫！天喪予。」子路死，子曰：「噫！天祝予。」西狩獲麟，孔子曰：「吾道窮矣！」《春秋》何以始乎隱？祖之所逮聞也。所見異辭，所聞異辭，所傳聞異辭。何以終乎哀十四年？曰：備矣！君子曷為為《春秋》？撥亂世，反諸正，莫近諸《春秋》。則未知其為是與？其諸君子樂道堯舜之道與？末不亦樂乎堯舜之知君子也？制《春秋》之義以俟後聖，以君子之為，亦有樂乎此也。〕

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The Chinese text follows the Chinese Wikisource transcription of the Gongyang Commentary (articles 春秋公羊傳/隱公, 春秋公羊傳/桓公, 春秋公羊傳/莊公, 春秋公羊傳/閔公, 春秋公羊傳/僖公, 春秋公羊傳/文公, 春秋公羊傳/宣公, 春秋公羊傳/成公, 春秋公羊傳/襄公, 春秋公羊傳/昭公, 春秋公羊傳/定公, 春秋公羊傳/哀公, revisions of 19 September 2024 to 22 March 2026), inspected from a witness copy captured on 22 August 2026. Chinese Wikisource transcriptions are published under CC BY-SA 4.0 and the GFDL; the text itself is ancient and in the public domain. The wiki header, navigation links, license templates, and modern contributors' footnotes have been removed; the text is otherwise complete and unaltered.

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