Shi Xun was one of the key figures in this incident. Originally, it was just about Kong Xiang and Xu Asan, but the Song Dynasty's official gazette did not shy away from commenting on the matter, accusing the Kong family of being domineering, treating human life as worthless, and not setting an example for the world...
His words separated the Confucius family from Confucius himself, and explained how things should be done, which greatly pleased Zhao Huan.
However, the other ministers clearly still opposed it. They believed that the punishment was indeed necessary, but out of consideration for the emperor, they should be lenient.
Zhao Huan took a deep breath and then said, "Come, show this letter of testimonies to Minister Wang."
The young eunuch handed the confession to Wang Yanbo. Wang Boyan opened it in a daze and couldn't help but exclaim, "What! The Kong family wiped out Xu A'san's entire family! They didn't even spare a three-year-old child!"
His words silenced the court once again.
The way of the sages emphasizes benevolence and righteousness, and treating others with courtesy. As descendants of the sages, why would the Confucius family go against the teachings of the sages and do such a heinous thing?
The Confucius Mansion is a sacred place in the hearts of Confucian scholars all over the world and should be a model for the world. If there is such a model in the world, wouldn't the world be in chaos?
Zhao Huan looked at the ministers below and said, "Come, tell me again, how should we deal with the Kong family?"
This time, even Wang Boyan changed his tune: "The Confucius family has committed treason and is unkind to its subordinates, violating the teachings of the sages. Their virtue is unworthy of their position. They should be stripped of their titles, reduced to commoners, and exiled to the frontier to rectify the foundation of the nation!"
The other ministers were no different from Wang Boyan.
Zhao Huan said: "Kong Duancao plotted rebellion and caused chaos in the court. He should be beheaded and his head displayed to the public. Duke Yansheng Kong Duanyou failed to manage his family well and was unable to set an example for the world. He has let down his ancestors. He should be stripped of his title of Duke Yansheng and given a white silk noose. The Kong family oppressed the people and seized fertile land. All members of the Kong family should be reduced to commoners and exiled to the southwest. They are ordered to educate the barbarians in the southwest to atone for their sins. Retire from court."
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