In ancient times, when the time of the Shang Dynasty was so early, where did the civil and military officials of the Shang Dynasty live? Where did they go to work after the Shang Dynasty?
In ancient China, especially during the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties, becoming an official was a coveted status for countless people, not only because it represented power and status, but also because it brought glory to the family. Behind this job lies unimaginable hardships and challenges.
At three o'clock in the morning, when most people today were still enjoying their dreams, the ministers of ancient times had to get up. In the darkness of the night, they began their day's rush. The first is a quick wash and change, as they can't enjoy a leisurely morning because time is tight. After changing their clothes, they hurried out the door and set out on their way to the palace. For officials living in the capital, although the distance varies, they all need to walk to maintain the solemnity of the court.
On the way to the palace, the ministers had their own agendas, some fearing that they would be punished for being late, while others were thinking about the state affairs that were about to be discussed. According to the regulations, it is forbidden to eat or go to the toilet halfway through the morning pilgrimage, so many people choose to travel on an empty stomach to avoid embarrassing situations at the court. This taboo stems from the extreme importance attached to the court meeting in ancient times, believing it to be a time to demonstrate loyalty and responsibility.
As the sky grew brighter, the ministers arrived at the palace one after another and began the procedures of the early dynasty. It is a ceremonial process, and everyone must be careful to ensure that their words and actions are in line with the rules of the court. In front of the emperor, the ministers stood or knelt to discuss state affairs. Every issue needs to be approached with caution, as any inappropriate suggestion can lead to serious consequences.
The end of the court meeting does not mean that the day of the ministers is over. They also have to deal with a lot of government work, which often requires careful planning and careful decision-making. For those officials who administer local areas, they also had to return to their yamen to continue to deal with local affairs, often until late at night.
Even with such a heavy work schedule, ancient officials had their own little pleasures and coping strategies. In between meetings, they exchange information and share light-hearted topics to relieve stress. Intelligence and humor are often the tools they use to arm themselves to maintain mental resilience and a clear head. Officials would also take advantage of every opportunity to show their talents and loyalty, hoping to win the emperor's favor and thus obtain higher positions or more important tasks.
In such a high-pressure and challenging environment, many officials have demonstrated extraordinary political wisdom and outstanding management skills, which have been honed in the harsh life of the government. They learned how to survive the complex court politics while also contributing to the development of the country. Such a life is undoubtedly extremely draining, and it poses a threat not only to the physical health of officials, but also to their spiritual world.
Still, the life of an ancient official was not all drudgery. In addition to their busy lives, there are also poetry, wine, and the joy of friends gatherings. This multifaceted nature of life demonstrates both the sense of duty of ancient officials to their loyalty to the state and their ability to find joy in life in harsh circumstances.
Ultimately, this extremely diligent work attitude and way of life shaped generations of Chinese officials, who supported the backbone of Chinese civilization with their indomitable will and unremitting efforts. Despite the countless hardships and inconveniences in their lives, they ensured the stability and prosperity of the country with amazing perseverance and wisdom. This spirit is undoubtedly worthy of learning and inheritance by people of every era.
