The Book of Officialdom is a work of political instruction written by the Five Dynasties statesman Feng Dao, and can be considered an ancient code of conduct for officials. Feng Dao served the Later Tang, Later Jin, Later Han, Later Zhou, and the early Northern Song. He rose to the highest rank, yet was known for his tolerant, cautious nature and his ability to protect himself. He gathered the lessons of a lifetime in office and his experience in governance into this book, passing it down to later generations to urge officials to cultivate themselves in private and uphold the right path.
The book is written in aphorisms, with a few concise, clear words in each chapter. Its topics include relations between ruler and ministers, integrity in public service, how to treat others, and when to advance or withdraw. It also reflects on the lessons and insights drawn from the rise and fall of successive dynasties. Among its famous sayings are "Since ancient times, many officials have fallen because of their talent" and "Those in high positions should be especially humble and cautious," both of which have been praised by later generations.
Though The Book of Officialdom contains no elaborate codes or regulations, it is rich in practical wisdom. It is both Feng Dao's words of self-reflection and self-admonition and a mirror reflecting the ethics of ancient officialdom. It influenced how scholar-officials conducted themselves after the Song dynasty and is an important text in the history of China's official culture.
