The emperor succeeded the precious reign
In winter of Yuanhe's third year
From winter till late spring
No rain, severe drought prevailed
The sovereign's heart concerned the people
Fearing the year would bring disaster
Thus issued a self-blame decree
Earnestly informing all lands
The emperor said, 'I alone
Heaven's successor, heir to ancestors
Anxious and diligent, finding no peace
Day and night, my heart is heavy
First year, Liu Pi was executed
At one stroke, Ba-Qiong was pacified
Second year, Li Qi was slain
Without war, Jiangdong was secured
Considering my meager virtue
How suddenly these towering achievements?
Perhaps Heaven sends this calamity
As a warning to my own person
Above, reflecting on Heaven's warning
Below, thinking how to bring harmony
Nothing better than guiding by example
With kindness, harmony, frugality, respect
Then ordered to halt tributes
Then ordered relief for the hungry poor
Spared death, reduced the five punishments
Blaming self, eased burdens on farmers
Palace maids left Xuanhui Court
Stable horses of Feilong reduced
All governance was implemented
All emanating from the imperial heart
People rushed on roads
Elders bent in fields
Cheered and told each other
Moved to tears soaking chests
Following people's will, hearts rejoice
Anticipating Heaven, its will complies
The decree issued just seven days
Harmonious energy arose, blending freely
Condensed into oily, dense clouds
Dispersed as gentle, soothing winds
Rain fell day and night for three days
Chilly again and misty
All hearts bright as spring
All grains lush and green
People turned sorrow to joy
The year changed scarcity to abundance
Then knew the monarch's heart
Shares worries and joys with the multitude
August Heaven and broad Earth
Respond to all that is felt
How clanging the caps and pendants!
Generals, ministers, and princes
Leapt and danced, shouting 'Long live!'
Arrayed in congratulations at bright court
Your servant, truly ignorant and crude
My post shames the Golden Luan Palace
Kowtowing again and again
One word to offer to Heaven's ear
The lord, with clarity, is sage
The minister, with uprightness, is loyal
Dare to congratulate this beginning
And also wish it may have an end