The Great Compassion Mantra of the Ming Dynasty

This book presents Mr. Xiong Zhaozheng's reflections and notes from his study of Ming history. In clear, accessible language, it recounts many stories from the Ming dynasty and portrays its emperors, such as Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Di; its officials, such as Zhang Juzheng; its scholars, such as Wang Yangming and Fang Xiaoru; and its powerful eunuchs, such as Wei Zhongxian and Feng Bao. It also describes several major events in Ming history. The author's distinctive interpretations and analyses of these people and events make for a refreshing and rewarding read.

The writing is concise and to the point, making the book especially suitable for readers interested in history who are not professional researchers. The author explains his own view of history, arguing, for instance, that powerful ministers are not necessarily corrupt: what matters is whether they use their authority for the people. He also argues that an official's worth should not be judged solely by moral character, but by their contribution to society's overall development. These ideas offer readers much to consider. The author also gives his own distinctive assessments of historical figures, such as describing Zhu Yuanzhang as a man lacking historical imagination, and offering a thought-provoking judgment of Hai Rui, who is widely praised in popular lore.