LATEST UPDATES

Published at 16th of April 2024 07:00:07 AM


Chapter 192

If audio player doesn't work, press Stop then Play button again








Chapter 192

As Madam Chos words came to an end, another person began to speak.

The ancient sages, when teaching their disciples, did so through questions and discussions, not by corporal punishment, did they not? The point is not to abolish corporal punishment entirely, but to minimize it as much as possible. That, in fact, would be a more effective way to teach our children.

The discussion continued for a while, but the consensus eventually leaned towards minimizing corporal punishment.

* * *

The next major debate revolved around the concepts of A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences. (Note 1)

The debate began with Madam Chos statement.

It is my belief that teaching A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences indiscriminately is not appropriate.New novel chapters are published on

Why do you think so?

Many of the male participants were surprised by Madam Chos question, expressing shock on their faces.

It was unexpected because Madam Cho, known for her fidelity and virtue, was criticizing A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences.

Responding to the question, Madam Cho calmly explained her reasoning.

A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences are not included in the Three Bonds and Five Relationships.

Really?

* * *

The Three Bonds and Five Relationships, represent the three cardinal principles and five virtues that one must adhere to in Confucianism.

The Three Bonds are the relationships between ruler and subject, parent and child, and husband and wife, indicating the duties that must be upheld in each. The Five Relationships outline the ethical standards that one must follow as a human being.

* * *

Madam Cho continued in her usual composed tone.

The reason I fulfilled my duties as a faithful wife and virtuous widow is because my late husband fulfilled his duties towards me. As the head of the family, he adhered to the principles of The father is the model for his son) and The husband is the support for his wife, and he observed the The distinction between husband and wife from the Five Relationships, ensuring that we respected each others boundaries. It was because he fulfilled his duties that I was able to fulfill mine.

Ah

Upon hearing Madam Chos words, many nodded in agreement, especially the virtuous widows and dutiful wives, who almost unanimously showed their assent. After taking a moment to collect her breath, Madam Cho continued.

But what do we see in the capital today? How many are there who do not uphold human decency themselves yet demand it from their partners?

At this, a few coughed awkwardly. Madam Cho, undeterred, pressed on with a pointed remark.

Even the lowest of ruffians claim to uphold a code of honor. If they can do so, then insisting solely on A Woman Must Follow Her Husband or The Three Obediences in such times can only be harmful.

Honor, you say

Though it may seem like a convoluted discussion, it all comes down to honor. The division of honor among parents, children, and spouses is what forms the basis of the Three Bonds and Five Relationships. Therefore, the most crucial task is to ensure a thorough education in these principles.

Despite the controversy sparked by Madam Chos bold statements, the women largely held the upper hand. This was largely because most of the female attendees who supported Madam Cho were themselves recognized as virtuous widows and dutiful wives, providing a strong foundation for their stance. Additionally, these virtuous women had endured all manner of hardships to uphold their families honor, developing a resilience that was not easily matched by those who had merely pursued academic studies.

***

Ultimately, without an easy resolution in sight, the matter escalated to King Sejong.

The debate among the ministers who heard the story was no less intense. Surprisingly, the Chief State Councillor and the Chief Scholar came out in support of Madam Cho.

It is only natural that the Three Bonds and Five Relationships should be upheld first! There is nothing wrong with Madam Chos words!

Indeed! Nowhere in the Three Bonds and Five Relationships are A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences mentioned!

With the Chief State Councillor and the Chief Scholar, known for their stringent adherence to Confucian values, supporting Madam Cho, another voice added weight to their argument.

As Madam Cho said, unless the duties represented by the Three Bonds and Five Relationships are fulfilled, A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences will only serve as shackles. This will turn into a greater poison in the distant future.

Ultimately, King Sejong issued a formal decree.

A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences, being adjuncts to the Three Bonds and Five Relationships, are not as crucial! Exclude this part!

Sigh, does this reduce the potential for future criticism?

Muttering to himself, recalling the gender debates of the 21st century, Hyang suddenly realized something he had forgotten.

Damn it! The textbooks need to be reprinted!

***

However, King Sejongs decision sparked immense controversy.

Even if the world changes, A Woman Must Follow Her Husband and The Three Obediences are virtues that all women must uphold!

Indeed! We must inform His Majesty of this injustice!

Not only the staunchly conservative scholars but also the more moderate conservatives were united in their opinion this time and began drafting petitions.

The uproar was not confined to the scholars.

This is because they represent the fundamental duties and loyalties that everyone must observe!

Faced with King Sejongs firm response, the scholars had no choice but to remain silent.

Continuing to argue will only make us look like the fools from last year.

The King was thought to be wise, but now it seems otherwise. Even if not now, he is creating a snare that will strangle future generations

* * *

The ministers shared a similar sentiment to the scholars.

At the Office of Royal Decrees, Heo Jo voiced his concerns with a worried tone.

This matter is a great mistake by His Majesty. While there is no issue with His Majesty and the Crown Prince being wise, the future is concerning. If a successor to the throne lacks the necessary qualities, it will undoubtedly bring about great calamity.

Listening silently to Heo Jos points, Maeng Sa-seong nodded and, looking towards Geunjeongjeon Hall, responded.

Who wouldnt know that? His Majesty must surely be aware of it too. The problem is that despite this, he persists in his stubbornness.

* * *

Hyang was also aware of the issue.

The foremost among the Three Bonds is the bond between ruler and subject Father must be aware of this

Ultimately, Hyang sought an audience with King Sejong.

What brings you here? Its unusual for you to come to me first.

I apologize for the intrusion.

Alright, whats the matter? But let me forewarn you, I have neither time nor budget to spare.

A fleeting smile crossed Hyangs face at King Sejongs jest before fading.

Ive come to discuss the recent proclamation you issued, Father.

The proclamation? There were no errors in it, were there?

As King Sejong continued to jest, Hyangs tone became more serious.

Father, surely you understand its not about typographical errors? While the Three Bonds and Five Relationships are fundamental duties, they could create a trap that might ensnare even a king.

At Hyangs words, King Sejong smiled and spoke.

Youre referring to the bond between ruler and subject and the righteousness between them, arent you?

Why would you say that?

Hyangs expression grew even more serious, realizing that King Sejong had spoken with intention.

Despite Hyangs earnest demeanor, King Sejong remained composed in his response.

There are several reasons, but two stand out most prominently. The first is to liberate women from the shackles that bind them. For Joseon to progress further, we need more talented individuals. That means if a woman is talented, she must be recognized as such. However, those with vested interests find it hard to accept new entrants. When the time comes, those lacking in ability but full of greed will use A Woman Must Follow Her Husband, The Three Obediences, and the Seven Detestable Sins to block progress. Even now, there are many women who bear the responsibility of providing for their households.

That makes sense.

Hyang nodded in agreement with King Sejongs point. It was common to see women taking on the role of breadwinner for their families due to war or disease. Even among those working in the palace, there were many such cases.

With Hyang convinced, King Sejong moved on to the second reason.

The second reason is to prevent incompetent individuals from ascending to the throne of Joseon and ruling over it. As Ryu Jeong-hyeon said, no one can guarantee that tyrants like Jie of Xia and Zhou of Shang will not emerge. Even if not a tyrant, if someone who cant even uphold the Three Bonds and Five Relationships ascends to the throne, can Joseon truly be safeguarded? In such cases, the king must be replaced.

King Sejong paused briefly, his gaze drifting into the distance.

For the sake of the royal family, the people, and for Joseon itself, such individuals must not ascend to the throne.

Do you think the ministers have realized this?

At Hyangs question, King Sejong chuckled and replied.

By now, they probably have some inkling. They are smart people, after all.

* * *

After concluding the conversation with King Sejong and exiting the Gangnyeongjeon Hall, Hyang turned towards the Eastern Palace, then paused to look back in the direction of Gangnyeongjeon Hall, situated beyond Geunjeongjeon Hall.

After a moment of contemplation, Hyang shook their head in disbelief and turned away.

Truly a formidable figure.

* * *

Note 1: In the Confucian cultural sphere before modern times, this term refers to the moral norms specifying the status and roles of women. Known as the Three Obediences and Four Virtues.

Source: Encyclopedia of Korean National Culture

Note 2: A set of seven grounds from Confucian ideology during the Joseon Dynasty that justified a husband in divorcing his wife.

Source: Encyclopedia of Korean National Culture




Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!


COMMENTS