What responsibilities does the king have? What responsibilities do the subjects have?

Question

T'ang Code:
“The king occupies the most honorable position and receives heaven's precious decrees. Like heaven and earth, he acts to shelter and support, thus serving as the father and mother of the masses. As his children, as his subjects, they must be loyal and filial. However, should they dare to cherish wickedness and have rebellious hearts, they will run counter to heaven's constancy and violate human principle.”

Answer 1

The T'ang Code emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between the king and his subjects, delineating specific responsibilities for each party.

Responsibilities of the King:

1. Leadership and Governance: The king is expected to assume the highest position of authority and to govern justly, guided by heavenly dictates.
2. Protection and Support: As the "father and mother" of the masses, the king has the duty to shelter and support his people, ensuring their well-being and prosperity.
3. Moral Guidance: The king should embody virtue and uphold moral principles, serving as a model for his subjects to emulate.
4. Justice and Order: It is the king’s responsibility to maintain order and uphold justice within the realm, addressing any threats to harmony or tranquility.

Responsibilities of the Subjects:

1. Loyalty: The subjects are expected to be loyal to the king and the state, aligning their actions and beliefs with the ruler's authority.
2. Filial Piety: Similar to the familial duty of revering parents, subjects must respect and honor their king, acknowledging his role as their leader.
3. Moral Conduct: Individuals must maintain moral integrity and avoid wickedness or rebellion, as these actions are viewed as contrary to both divine order and societal harmony.
4. Support and Contribution: Subjects should contribute to the common good of the society, working collectively to sustain the kingdom and support the king’s initiatives.

Overall, the relationship is characterized by a mutual obligation where the king is tasked with the welfare of his subjects, while the subjects are expected to show loyalty and uphold societal values, creating a harmonious and orderly state.