Zhu Wen, I, Li Ye, Have a Cheat. Are You Afraid?

Edict on the Restoration of the Tang

We, of humble person, have inherited and safeguarded this great enterprise. We often recall how Gaozu raised his sword at Jinyang and Taizong swept across the realm with his spear, while the emperors who followed sustained the dynasty for three hundred years. The splendor of “bright and glorious Tang, favored by Heaven and ruler of all nations” has now given way to arrogant warlords and eunuchs who monopolize power. The ancestral temples lie in the dust, and the people are plunged into misery!

We now resolve to begin anew:

1. Execute all eunuchs who meddle in government and restore order to the Three Departments.

2. Strip the arrogant warlords of their power and reestablish the elite Shence Army.

3. Forgive burdensome taxes and give the people respite.

4. Revitalize the Imperial Academy and seek out worthy talent far and wide.

We vow to join with men of loyalty and righteousness to uphold the state. We would sooner shatter our heads in the halls of government than seek safety in this age of chaos! Let all our officials and subjects remember the hardships our ancestors endured in founding the dynasty, fulfill their duties with loyalty, and restore peace.

Let this be proclaimed throughout the realm, so that all may know!

Emperor Li Ye of the Great Tang

Fourth year of Qianning