Research On Rescript For Penitence In Ming Dynasty

Since Yu and Tang blamed themselves for the first time in Xia and Shang Dynasty, to Emperor Wen of Han promulgate the first true rescript for penitence, these examples of later emperor blaming themselves were not be extinguished in history.Among them, in Ming Dynasty,11 emperors issued a total of 27 rescript for penitence.Its' content involved of all aspects of political, economic and military of Ming Dynasty.So its are important literature data that we study Ming Dynasty history. These rescript for penitence were promulgated by natural disasters and vision type, or man-made scourge. In the period of time, the structure of Ming Dynasty rescript for penitence had basically formed a certain mode, the content of many rescript for penitence could be divided into three parts: the first part was the reason of penitence;the second part was remedial measures; the third part was a summary of cautionary language. Out of fear of destiny, the language of rescript for penitence was rich in repentance and pure-heartedness. In another side, this also reflected the desire of the Ming Dynasty emperors' wish of hoping the country good weather, peace or prosperity forever. At the same time, the emperor also expected through the enactment of rescript for penitence to achieve the purposes including in wining the heart of people and maintaining the rule of the country. So they take appropriate remedial measures to make up themselves' fault. These remedies measures included free airing,favor soldiers and civilians, rectify official management etc. With carrying out these appropriate remedial measures, rescript for penitence had a significant impact on Ming Dynasty politics. Mainly as a positive influence and negative impact on a total of four points: supervision and restraint of imperial power; promote official management; harm monarch and officer's relation; cause officials' struggle.