Book of Poetry (The Shih King)

The Shih Jing, also known as the Book of Poetry, is one of the oldest and most significant collections of Chinese poetry. Traditionally attributed to Confucius, this anthology comprises 305 poems that reflect the social, political, and cultural life of ancient China. The poems are divided into four sections: the Airs of the States, the Minor Odes of the Kingdom, the Major Odes of the Kingdom, and the Songs of the Temple and the Altar. The Shih King offers a unique window into the values, beliefs, and daily experiences of the Chinese people during the Zhou Dynasty. The poems cover a wide range of themes, including love, war, agriculture, and rituals, providing insights into the moral and ethical principles that guided ancient Chinese society. James Legge's translation, first published in 1879, remains one of the most respected English versions of the Shih King. His work provides a comprehensive and accessible interpretation of these timeless poems, making them available to a wider audience.