Imperial Master of the Ming Dynasty

Outside the prison, the brave soldiers who came to rescue Kong Xilu blocked the door after hearing the news.

They heard that the Imperial Master and the commander of the Imperial Guard had all come to the imperial prison.

They did not know that Kong Xilu, their idol, was already on the dangerous path of rebelling against Neo-Confucianism.

These scholars' attempt to stir up a lot of noise to rescue Kong Xilu was unsuccessful, because Jin Yiwei's Xiuchun Sword was already ready to be unsheathed.

"presumptuous!"

Seeing the scholars crossing the cordon and trying to approach the prison gate, the guards guarding the wooden fence looked at the leading Baihu.

"If you dare to take even half a step forward, you will be killed without mercy."

The leader of the Jin Yiwei, who looked like a hundred households, held up his token and shouted sternly.

Scholars, you look at me and I look at you, all showing hesitation.

"You will leave quickly!"

They knew very well who the Jinyiwei were. During the Hongwu period, the Jinyiwei were one of the Twelve Guards of the Imperial Army, one of the troops closest to the emperor. In the current Yongle period, after the failure of King Gu's rebellion, Zhu Di completely changed the Jinyiwei. , the current Jin Yiwei who are responsible for guarding the key places in the capital are basically veterans of the Yan Army. It can be said that every Jin Yiwei standing in front of them is a fierce soldier who crawled out from the pile of dead people.

These royal guards, armed with long knives and crossbows, pointed at the group of brave young scholars, their eyes sharp and full of murderous aura. This made the scholars understand better that if they and others forced their way into the imperial prison today and crossed this Daomu Fence, Jin Yiwei really dares to kill people.

The scholars were frightened by them and retreated one after another, but they still supported Kong Xilu in their own way.

——They stood at the gate of the prison and shouted Kong Xilu’s name.

The leader of Jinyiwei sneered when he saw this.

They were quite sensible. If this group of scholars really dared to break into the imperial prison, their bodies would probably be gone.

However, at this moment, someone suddenly walked forward like crazy, waving his arms.

Under his instigation, the crowd began to become restless again.

"You can't take Mr. Kong away, you must let His Majesty issue an order."

When he crossed the wooden fence, he was greeted by several sharp blades before he finished speaking.

Blood flowers bloomed in the air, and blood sprayed out and splashed on the faces and necks of the other soldiers.

They looked at the fallen bodies of their companions in shock, and looked at the bloody blade of the Xiuchun Knife in disbelief.

"Anyone who dares to break into the imperial prison will die." The leader of the Jin Yiwei retracted his sword and said indifferently.

At this moment, all the scholars were silent, and there was no longer any controversy or resistance. However, they were unwilling to leave just now. Instead, they all turned around silently and quietly waited for the results of the imperial edict in prison.

A moment later, surrounded by Ji Gang and others, Jiang Xinghuo walked out slowly and familiarly, and the guards with swords drawn immediately made way for him.

Not all scholars were opponents of the reform. Many of them were impressed by Jiang Xinghuo's performance on the long street. At this time, basic order was maintained.

"Master Imperial Master, why did Jin Yiwei imprison Duke Kong?"

"Yes, Kong Gongwei is so powerful at home, how could he participate in the rebellion?"

"Mr. Kong was just invited to give lectures at the Imperial College. What's wrong with him?"

"I hope the Imperial Master can give us an explanation!"

They gathered around and talked among themselves.

Of course, Jiang Xinghuo couldn't directly tell these young scholars that Kong Xilu was the bait he used for fishing. If the bait was released, the fish would stop biting the hook.

"Kong Xilu broke the law."

Jiang Xinghuo replied in a deep voice.

"What kind of law would make the head of the Nankong family a prisoner?"

"How could something like this happen?"

The scholars were puzzled. They felt that things should never be so simple.

"The remnants of the pseudo-emperor Jianwen may have colluded with him. If the investigation proves that he is innocent, Jin Yiwei will naturally release him."

Jiang Xinghuo spoke slowly and forcefully, as if he was describing a matter that had nothing to do with him: "The Jinyi Guards are acting according to His Majesty's orders, and I have no right to interfere. If you have any objections to this, you can appeal to Heaven."

"What does the Imperial Master do here?"

"Of course we want to make sure Kong Xilu doesn't get hurt in any way."

After saying that, Jiang Xinghuo walked away surrounded by his attendants.

Many scholars stayed in place, unable to react for a long time.

But soon some scholars shouted loudly to the Jin Yiwei: "What crime did Master Kong have? You have no right to torture him!"

Ji Gang had a dark face and had the prison door shut.

Kong Xilu was arrested while giving a lecture at the Imperial College. The news instantly shocked every street in Nanjing, and the whole city exploded.

"What's going on? How come Kong Xilu was suddenly captured by Jin Yiwei?"

"Isn't Kong Xilu the head of Nankong's family? How did he offend Jin Yiwei?"

"I heard that Kong Xilu had a conflict with Jiang Xinghuo, the founder of the new school. I don't know the specific reason. The leader died first, and Kong Xilu suffered anyway."

"New learning, what new learning? Why haven't I heard of it?"

"With Jiang Xinghuo's knowledge, no wonder Kong Xilu was arrested by the Jin Yiwei. This must have something to do with Jiang Xinghuo!"

"Don't talk nonsense. Duke Kong's prestige is so high. Once such rumors spread, not only Jiang Xinghuo, but also the entire Xinxue will suffer!"

"What's the harm in this? Isn't Neo-Confucianism the orthodox knowledge of the country? Aren't students of Neo-Confucianism human beings? I am a loyal supporter of Neo-Confucianism!"

In the city of Nanjing, people's hearts were floating, and various rumors were spreading. Some said it was a battle between Neo-Confucianism represented by Kong Xilu and New Learning represented by Jiang Xinghuo. Some said it was Jin Yiwei who wanted to use the topic to play on. Some said it was because Some dark secrets.

But no matter which version, the impact on public opinion is huge.

Jiang Xinghuo's new science has been widely questioned since its birth. This time the turmoil has intensified, as if a storm sweeping the world is about to come.

Kong Xilu is a descendant of Confucius and one of the representatives of Neo-Confucianism. Among scholars, most people respect him and believe in him.

Now, this person they respected and trusted was captured by Jin Yiwei, which almost made people feel that their spiritual support was shaken.

No matter who it is, when encountering such a thing, their first reaction will be fear and panic, especially the students of the Imperial College who have just come from the happy Jianwen period. They are also full of confusion about the future.

They cannot control their thoughts.

This is like a pebble thrown into a lake, causing ripples to spread out.

Xinxue is a new discipline that has just emerged. Its emergence has changed the fate of many people, but it has also angered many people.

In the Ming Dynasty, scholars and civil servants were inseparable, and academic matters were, strictly speaking, matters in the temple.

This is a huge and complex temple whirlpool. Once a new school emerges, it is actually destined to become a trend-setter. The reason why it is getting bigger and bigger now, and even getting mixed up with the reform, can only be said to be the time of the storm. It's time.

And all of this stems from Jiang Xinghuo's seemingly irrational behavior.

Jinyiwei's idea of ​​arresting people was fine to fool the scholars. In the eyes of the officials, Emperor Yongle would definitely not express any opinions. Without Jiang Xinghuo's instructions, Ji Gang, who had just been reinstated, would dare to arrest someone like Kong Xilu. ?

There could have been other better ways to deal with Kong Xilu's arrival in Beijing, but at this time it caused an uproar.

Jiang Xinghuo's move not only aroused public opinion in Shilin, but also caused subtle changes in the situation in the court. This made many civil servants feel threatened, and even the cabinet had some concerns.

——————

"Your Highness, the First Prince, if Jiang Xinghuo caused trouble today, Your Majesty will definitely call for questioning. How do you plan to deal with it then?"

Yang Shiqi asked in Zhu Gaochi's mansion.

As the executive deputy emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Gaochi is now actually fulfilling the duties of the emperor and is responsible for handling major world affairs. He has long heard about Kong Xilu coming to Beijing, but because he has too many concerns and many people highly respect Kong Xilu, Therefore, he felt that there was no serious problem and did not interfere in the matter.

"Let's wait and see what happens."

Zhu Gaochi sat on the chair, coughed twice and said: "There is a lot of commotion in the army. My father is in a bad mood recently. I think no one dares to jump out at this time. And maybe my father tacitly allowed Mr. Jiang to do this." Yes."

The mission headed to Annan to investigate with Yang Bo as its envoy returned two days after Jiang Xinghuo solved the case of the assassination of an envoy. The news brought back was accurate. The Hu family was indeed a powerful official who usurped the country and forged a A series of things to deceive Ming Dynasty.

The Ming Dynasty's war machine has already started, and the conquest of Annan is a certainty. Before that, what bothered Zhu Di the most was the issue of the generals' rank evaluation.

This issue is very difficult. The balance of different factions in the Yan Army and the emotions of the originally surrendered generals of the Southern Army must be considered. After all, Zhu Di is now in charge of the world and all aspects must be taken care of, and the rating itself contains According to a certain order, as the saying goes, "Everyone with a bloody spirit must have a fighting spirit." How can we convince these bloody generals? At least they must be superficially convinced. This requires careful weighing and consideration. There are also various kinds of things in between. Hint and persuasion and compromise.

All we can say is that Jiang Xinghuo found him a good job.

Yang Rong pondered for a few moments and then said cautiously:

"But I'm a little surprised. According to common sense, Jiang Xinghuo is a very thoughtful person. Why would he do such a reckless thing? Is there some plan behind it?"

In the eldest prince's mansion, which used to be a bustling place, there were actually not many people at this time.

This means that there were originally seven people in the Yongle Cabinet, namely Xie Jin, Hu Guang, Huang Huai, Yang Shiqi, Jin Youzi, Hu Yan, and Yang Rong.

Now Xie Jin has handed over his cabinet duties and went to the President's Reform Affairs Office to be the editor-in-chief of his "Ming Pao". He is a professional counterpart and his work is enjoyable; Huang Huai, who was originally ranked only after Xie Jin in the cabinet, He was transferred to the Huanghuai Chief Envoy, who had the same name as him, as a counselor (from the fourth rank); Hu Yan was also promoted in this round of civil service adjustment and went to the Imperial College to serve as a sacrificial wine; Jin Youzi in the "Two Golds" He had always been a lone minister of Emperor Yongle, never getting along with the cabinet, and rarely visiting the eldest prince Zhu Gaochi's residence.

So Hu Guang, Yang Shiqi, and Yang Rong were actually left in the cabinet, working with Zhu Gaochi.

But Hu Guang is a wallflower, and everyone knows that they can't talk to him, so the only person who is close to him is "Er Yang".

When Zhu Gaochi saw that Yang Shiqi didn't answer Yang Rong, he knew that the two people's views were inconsistent, so he didn't say anything more. Instead, he changed the subject and said: "My father told me before to find some talented people to add to the cabinet. You two can Do you have any recommendations?"

Yang Shiqi thought for a moment and said, "Has His Highness the eldest prince ever heard of Yang Pu?"

Zhu Gaochi replied almost without thinking: "Of course I have heard that Mianren (Yang Rongzi) and Jin Youzi were both Jinshi in Gengchenke (the second year of Jianwen). Now they are editors in the Hanlin Academy, right?"

"exactly."

Yang Shiqi nodded and said: "Yang Pu is a simple and upright man, honest, quiet, respectful and prudent. He is a rare talent. If your Highness is interested, you can personally inspect it."

Zhu Gaochi looked at Yang Rong, who didn't speak much: "What do Mianren think?"

"He's a reliable person."

Seeing that Yang Rong said the same thing, Zhu Gaochi made a rough decision. If he could solve the current serious shortage of members in the cabinet, it would really make him feel a lot more relaxed.

"Yang Rong, Yang Pu, Yang Shiqi."

"I've got a 'Three Yang Kaitai'!"

Zhu Gaochi also made a joke.

Seeing that Zhu Gaochi was in a good mood, Yang Rong and Yang Shiqi also laughed.

Just when the atmosphere was gradually becoming harmonious, Zhu Zhanji suddenly appeared at the door holding something.

Seeing that his son was polite and knew that he could not come in when he was discussing things with cabinet ministers, and he did not even dare to disturb him, Zhu Gaochi was very pleased. He waved and said, "Come in."

Zhu Zhanji walked in with steady steps, saluted first to Zhu Gaochi, then to Yang Rong and Yang Shiqi, and then jumped into Zhu Gaochi's arms.

"Just finished school from the main hall?"

"Yes, Father."

Zhu Gaochi looked at the reflective thing in his son's hand and asked casually: "What is this?"

Zhu Zhanji replied crisply: "This is called a magnifying glass. It is ground out of crystal stone. My husband gave one to each of us. He said it can be used to observe things better and to learn from things."

Zhu Zhanji had a good memory and briefly talked about what Jiang Xinghuo had just said when he returned to the main hall from prison.

Of course, since we are teaching children, the lessons taught in the main hall must be of the same level as those taught to Kong Xilu in the prison, and are not at the same level of difficulty.

Zhu Gaochi took the crystal magnifying glass and found that it was true as his son said, as long as everything he illuminated was magnified, it could be said that every detail was reflected in his eyes.

Yang Shiqi also took it and looked at it carefully, nodded and said in appreciation: "Your husband is indeed quite capable."

That is to say, Jiang Xinghuo is so busy that it is definitely impossible to come here every day to give elementary classes to the children. He only goes there every few days. Therefore, there are actually many other teachers in the main hall, most of whom are selected from the Hanlin Academy. Zhu Gaochi and others knew that Jiang Xinghuo had gone to prison today, so they did not think of Jiang Xinghuo at all.

After hearing this, Zhu Zhanji immediately held his head high and said proudly: "Of course! Mr. Jiang is amazing! And the things he makes are very interesting!"

"oh?"

When they heard that it was Jiang Xinghuo who gave it to Zhu Zhanji, the demeanor of Zhu Gaochi, Yang Rong, and Yang Shiqi suddenly changed.

"Father, what's wrong?"

Zhu Zhanji was smart and very discerning, so he naturally knew that the atmosphere would change when Jiang Xinghuo's name was mentioned.

"It's nothing. You go to your mother's place to play first. Your uncle (Zhang Anshi) has come back from Jiangnan and is talking to your mother now. Let dad play with this gadget for a while and then return it to you later." Zhu Gaochi coaxed his son. said.

Zhu Zhanji was a little excited when he heard that Zhang Anshi was back. Although Zhu Zhanji matured precociously, he was still a child. He only knew that in the whole family, he was the only one who could play with him, and he would also take him to fight crickets. , took him to the street and bought him all kinds of delicious and fun things, so he left the magnifying glass and left.

Seeing his son's rare jumping figure, Zhu Gaochi also smiled.

When Zhu Zhanji disappeared, Zhu Gaochi's smile faded, his eyes glanced at Yang Shiqi and Yang Rong, and he said softly: "What do you think of this thing?"

The expressions of the two people changed. As extremely smart people like them, of course they knew what the eldest prince meant.

In fact, the three people in the room all have good attainments in Neo-Confucianism. They know very well where the flaws of Neo-Confucianism's physical theory and epistemology are, so if Zhu Gaochi can think of things, they can too.

"Jiang Xinghuo is by no means aimless. This magnifying glass has something to say."

Yang Rong was silent for a long time and said slowly: "Xinxue is indeed a bit beyond imagination, but it also has merits. I heard Hu Yan say that the academic atmosphere of Xinxue in the Imperial College is very good, and some of the supervisors really like it. Newly learned methods of studying things to gain knowledge, for example, the craze of manufacturing hot-air balloons that was popular in Nanjing some time ago, students in the Imperial College, as long as they have some wealth and can afford to spend on silk and other items, will join in the fun."

"Do you think New Learning can replace Neo-Confucianism?" Zhu Gaochi turned to ask Yang Shiqi.

Jiang Xinghuo's unusually radical behavior makes people wonder whether he will go to the most drastic extreme, which is to directly abolish Neo-Confucianism. Therefore, Zhu Gaochi's worries in private situations are not unreasonable.

In fact, Zhu Gaochi did hear some rumors.

"It's not bad, but Neo-Confucianism still has its shortcomings. I don't think new learning can replace Neo-Confucianism."

Yang Shiqi carefully selected his words and spoke euphemistically.

Yang Rong turned over the magnifying glass in his hand and looked embarrassed. He thought for a while and then said: "Although Neo-Confucianism has some criticisms, it is also a good theory. Emperor Taizu Gao made Neo-Confucianism the official document of the Ming Dynasty. Knowledge has a lot to say, and if it is rashly deposed, it will definitely cause shock in the world."

Seeing that the key point was reached, Yang Shiqi stood up and closed the door.

With a soft "squeak~" sound, the atmosphere in the room quickly became serious.

"Neo-Confucianism cannot be abolished, at least not now! This idea cannot be abandoned. What Jiang Xinghuo did is very dangerous! Your Highness must go and persuade His Majesty. This is what I said at the beginning."

Yang Shiqi said seriously: "In any case, Neo-Confucianism is now the official school of our Ming Dynasty. Neo-Confucianism is like a great river flowing eastward, gathering scholars and scholars from all over the world. If it is destroyed rashly, it will be like the river changing its course." Normally, it will inevitably lead to serious consequences. When the time comes, the world will be in chaos, which will be detrimental to the court and even directly affect the foundation of His Majesty's rule."

Yang Rong also frowned. Neo-Confucianism has an unparalleled influence in the minds of scholars all over the world. Although he personally has no prejudice against the new learning, the contrast in power between the two sides is so obvious that Yang Rong does not think Jiang Xinghuo has the slightest hope of winning.

"What news has His Highness received?"

In the solemn gazes of the two people, Zhu Gaochi nodded.

"His Majesty intends to support the New Learning and has made a private promise with Jiang Xinghuo that if the New Learning can defeat Neo-Confucianism in this debate, then some systems related to official selection will be changed."

"Is it necessary to restore the Sanshe method?" Yang Shiqi lost his voice.

The Three Houses Law was one of the contents of Wang Anshi's reform in the Northern Song Dynasty, which was to replace the imperial examination with school education. As the name suggests, the Taixue was divided into three houses: outer house, inner house and upper house. The outer house had 2,000 people and the inner house had 300 people. There are a hundred people in the house.

According to certain years and conditions, students are promoted from the outer dormitory to the inner dormitory and then to the upper house. Finally, according to the imperial examination method, their graduation scores are respectively stipulated and they are awarded official positions, that is, "the upper class will be given an official position, the middle class will be exempted from the Ministry of Ceremony examination, and the lower class will be exempted from the Ministry of Ceremony examination." "Waiting for no solution" is equivalent to a tilt in official resources. This is also Wang Anshi's attempt to cultivate a class that benefits from the reform.

In addition, the Sanshe method also has a strong practical significance, that is, students mainly read scriptures in Sheshe to overcome the shortcomings of the imperial examinations at that time that focused on literature. This means that a separate set of education-selection of officials The system, if applied today, can still play the role of opening up new tracks and cultivating officials who can learn new things.

During the Shaosheng reign of Zhezong of the Song Dynasty, the imperial examination was even abolished for a time and the three-part method was used to select scholars. This method was not banned until the third year of Xuanhe. In other words, this method has historical experience and can replace the imperial examination. Another system of recruiting scholars.

"good."

Zhu Gaochi nodded and said: "The Imperial Master intends to establish the Ming Dynasty Administrative School, not only to train officials to learn policies related to the reform, but also to restore the Sanshe method and train some officials with new academic backgrounds."

"this"

The expressions of Yang Rong and Yang Shiqi became extremely solemn.

To disrupt the imperial examination system was a major event that would shake up the world, but it was much more serious than arresting Kong Xilu.

After all, the imperial examination system is the most important official selection system at the moment, and the decline of the Imperial College is inevitable.

And Jiang Xinghuo restored the Sanshe method and established his own official training system. This is a very taboo thing, and it touches the real interests of almost all officials.

"What do you think, Your Highness?"

After a long silence, Zhu Gaochi slowly revealed his true thoughts: "Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism is an extension of the Tao of Confucius and Mencius, and the core of Neo-Confucianism is the Three Cardinal Guidelines and Five Constant Principles. If Neo-Confucianism is regarded as a shackles of imprisonment, then it can also be regarded as a protection." The imperial examination system cannot be changed. Once it is changed, scholars all over the world will be disappointed. These people are all students who studied hard in a poor family. How can they give up ten years of hard work in one day?"

After all, Zhu Gaochi and Zhu Gaoxu are different.

Zhu Gaochi received a Neo-Confucian education since he was a child, but after Zhu Gaoxu dropped out of school, he received a boxing education.

Neo-Confucianism has an extraordinary status in Zhu Gaochi's heart, and he himself is very keen on studying knowledge and often convenes some great Confucians to give lectures. This kind of thing that has been solidified in people's minds for more than 20 years is difficult to erase. Except, it does not mean that there is anything wrong with Zhu Gaochi himself.

And to be honest, from Zhu Gaochi's point of view, he has to consider the stability of the entire Ming Dynasty. Zhu Gaochi supports the reform because Emperor Yongle supports the reform. He needs to obey Emperor Yongle's opinions, not how much he believes in Jiang Xinghuo. .

Zhu Gaoxu was not like that. He was originally a blank slate and hated Neo-Confucianism. After being stuffed with Jiang Xinghuo's things, his temperament and knowledge have indeed improved a lot compared to before. Naturally, the more he learns, the more confident he becomes. Moreover, due to his distaste for the civil servant group, Zhu Gaoxu also naturally supported changes to the temple.

Learning and politics have always been inseparable in the Ming Dynasty.

Therefore, now that we have reached the critical period of the reform, that is, the time of desperate struggle between two different cultures, it can be seen who is firm and who is wavering.

"I understand, but if this happens, there may be a conflict between His Highness and Your Majesty. After all, Jiang Xinghuo has successfully provoked a dispute between the two parties. At this time, if Jiang Xinghuo thinks what we think again and openly proposes to abolish the Neo-Confucianism may restore the Sanshe method."

Yang Shiqi hesitated to speak. This dispute over orthodoxy caused all the famous Confucian scholars in the world to flock to Nanjing, and there was an endless stream of scholars coming to study every day.

Yang Shiqi even heard that Cao Duan, a great scholar who was far away in Guanzhong, rushed over thousands of miles just to defend the glory of Neo-Confucianism.

In this context, if Neo-Confucianism is abolished, it will inevitably cause an uproar, and the situation in the entire Ming Dynasty will inevitably become tense.

"It has only stopped for less than half a year." Yang Rong also lamented in his heart.

"I will go to the palace to admonish my father and nip problems in the bud."

Zhu Gaochi breathed a sigh of relief and made up his mind.

He paused and suddenly smiled helplessly: "I'm just afraid that nothing in this world can stop my father."

"Um?"

Yang Rong and Yang Shiqi were stunned for a moment and then understood.

After being bewitched by Jiang Xinghuo, His Majesty's ambitions are no longer limited to those around the Ming Dynasty.

His Majesty wants to "govern the Tang and Song Dynasties, and reach the Han and Tang Dynasties far away".

Your Majesty wants to become the emperor of the ages.

In the eyes of civil servants, this idea means burning money, destabilizing, and militarizing. It is simply crazy.

But in the eyes of Zhu Di now, he feels that this is a matter of course. With the advancement of Jiang Xinghuo's reform and the initial results in dealing with affairs related to Japan, North Korea, Annan and other countries, his ambitions have been completely revealed.

Zhu Di's idol is Li Shimin. He has just ascended to the throne of God and is determined to compete with Li Shimin.

Li Shimin, the young god of war, "captured two kings in one battle" stabilized the world, defeated the Turks and Tuyuhun to expand the territory, and established the Zhenguan era. Zhu Di wanted to surpass him, but how could he do it without increasing the national power?

Seeing Jiang Xinghuo's success in strengthening the country through hegemony, a large number of cotton textiles in Jiangnan were manufactured, waiting for the Ming army to open up the market to earn interest rates and obtain a steady stream of wealth. How could Zhu Di not support Jiang Xinghuo in internal reforms? ?

In the eyes of a ruthless person like Zhu Di, Neo-Confucianism defenders had verbally criticized him in the past, but now it has become a stumbling block, hindering his progress. It would be good to restore the Sanshe method, but even if it kicks it away, it will directly abolish the status of Neo-Confucianism as an official school. , something he can really do.

——————

When Zhu Gaochi arrived at the palace not far away, he was surprised to find that besides Jiang Xinghuo, his second and third brothers were all there.

"The new newspaper from Hu Yan's side is not the one reported to you a few days ago. What are these things?!"

Zhu Di threw a pile of torn posters to the ground.

Kong Xilu was arrested by Jin Yiwei and sent to prison, which immediately triggered a large-scale backlash.

The third prince Zhu Gaosui also held a pile of documents, which were all posted on the streets of Nanjing.

Public opinion reacted greatly, and even Zhu Di had to pay attention to it.

This matter was handled by Jiang Xinghuo, so Zhu Di could only ask Jiang Xinghuo.

In front of the emperor and the three princes, Jiang Xinghuo had nothing to hide. He said calmly: "Kong Xilu has been defeated by me."

Zhu Di frowned and said, "You mean Kong?"

Halfway through, Zhu Di looked at Jiang Xinghuo in disbelief, and Jiang Xinghuo nodded.

"What?!" Zhu Gaosui's reaction was a little surprised.

Zhu Gaoxu, on the other hand, took it as a matter of course. After all, in his heart, the master was simply an otherworldly existence, and winning was normal.

"How to win?"

Jiang Xinghuo retold the main process of the two people's debate.

Zhu Di's expression was a bit complicated.

Although there were some things that he didn't quite understand, he had heard of Kong Xilu's reputation. Since he could win Kong Xilu's argument, no one among the great scholars in the world could defeat Jiang Xinghuo.

And Jiang Xinghuo's theory obviously solves things that neophysics cannot.

In this way, Jiang Xinghuo really kept silent and did another big thing.

Zhu Di puzzled and said: "Since we have won, why not let Kong Xilu go? So that these scholars can also be convinced."

"You may not be convinced, or even take it orally. After all, you won't win by arguing in public." Zhu Gaosui reminded.

Zhu Gaoxu also asked at this time: "Then why didn't Master choose to defeat Kong Xilu in public? He is one of the representatives of Neo-Confucianism. If he won in public, wouldn't it save a lot of trouble?"

The reason why he didn't choose to do it in public was naturally because Jiang Xinghuo wasn't 100% sure of winning before the start. It was because Zhu Gaoxu thought he was sure of victory.

But you can't say this, you have already won, and you will lose your temper if you say it.

Jiang Xinghuo replied: "Firstly, he himself is not willing to go out now, and secondly, Kong Xilu will be needed as a bait before the time comes."

"Bait? What do the Imperial Masters plan to do?"

Zhu Di was a little interested.

"Literati are hard to convince, and the same is true for debates. Instead of fighting with the Confucian scholars, it is better to save some energy. Now Kong Xilu is imprisoned in the imperial prison, and the crowd is clamoring to save him. It just happens that all the Neo-Confucian masters can be gathered together Let’s debate together. My idea is to simply use Kong Xilu as bait, spread the word, set up three arenas, and let the Neo-Confucian side choose their own representatives to debate. If they can win three arenas, they can come in to visit Kong Xilu. road."

"Three arenas?"

"good."

Jiang Xinghuo nodded and said: "The first is Wang Ba, the second is Righteousness, and the third is Ancient and Modern. Let Zhuo Jing, Zhang Yuchu, and Yao Guangxiao guard them respectively."

Zhu Di understood what Jiang Xinghuo meant.

The three most important theoretical problems involved in the reform are the three debates between king, righteousness and benefit, ancient and modern.

Is it the royal way to rest with the people (gentry), or is it the tyranny of quickly strengthening the country and enriching the people?

Should we value righteousness and maintain the moral system that is the cornerstone of social order, or should we put profit first and pursue interests?

Is it the past or the present? Is he the first king of Fa or the queen of Fa? Can the laws of our ancestors be changed?

If these issues are debated one by one, it will be too slow and the people will be too mixed. Even if some Neo-Confucian masters lose, there will still be a lot of people who are dissatisfied.

But now it's simple.

Kong Xilu is famous all over the world. At this sensitive time point, he is highly suspected of being imprisoned because of the dispute over orthodoxy. If such an arena is really set up, then I want to save him to become famous, and even use it to become a subordinate. We don’t need too many Confucian-level figures who are leaders in Neo-Confucianism.

In this way, let them select representatives from within to compete in the competition. The candidates selected will naturally be candidates who take into account their qualifications and abilities. If they lose, you have to be convinced, because you selected them yourself.

And if no one can defeat Zhuo Jing, Zhang Yuchu, and Yao Guangxiao who are sent by the new school to defend the challenge, then the main academic problems faced by the reform will naturally have answers.

If he can win, there will be Jiang Xinghuo waiting for him.

In fact, the three people who defended the ring were not given for nothing. Whether it was Zhuo Jing, the "elderly version of Jie Jin", Zhang Yuchu, a "Taoist scholar", or Yao Guangxiao, who "learned the three religions", which one should be placed? Confucians are also the best among the great Confucians.

"That's a neat idea."

Zhu Di nodded slightly.

Jiang Xinghuo continued: "Of course, this is not enough."

"not enough?"

"We need to add another fire to completely ignite the already agitated public opinion."

Jiang Xinghuo took out a memorial from his sleeve and handed it to Zhu Di.

Zhu Di took it and looked up at the title: "Please apply for an order of study to revitalize talents."

“Recently, Neo-Confucian scholars have been talking about metaphysical theories, but they have no basis for their destination. Most of them assume that they are familiar with the path, and the actual theory is sparse. They only seek knowledge and loftiness, but do not know how to examine it from the base of etiquette and humbleness. This only makes people lofty and lofty. , has the habit of floating and empty, which is what is called walking on the flat ground and talking about the phase wheel, and talking about the sea when the well is dry.

The customs of scholars in recent times have gradually fallen into the same trap as the late Song Dynasty. Scholars in recent times do not seek it pragmatically, but only seek it from words, names and colors. Therefore, their explanations change frequently and become more and more confusing. Listening to their discussions, they are all in order to gather the reputation of the party and make quick moves. The so-called moral theory is empty and unreasonable, and it seems to be the so-called "shrimp Zen" of Buddhism. "

What these two paragraphs say is that the Neo-Confucian lectures are only pragmatic and not pragmatic, and they talk high and low in order to gain fame. They are all moral studies, but they are very empty, just like the fish, shrimp and toads in the pond. What Jiang Xinghuo described is very It was so spicy that Zhu Di laughed out loud when he thought of the scene where a Neo-Confucianist lectured on benevolence, justice and morality.

After laughing, Zhu Di continued to read.

"Since the Han and Tang dynasties, most of the people who are famous ministers, ministers and assistants with outstanding achievements have been upright, honest, taciturn and prudent in their actions. However, lecturers often slander them by saying: 'Although he has established himself, he does not know how to learn. He only uses his energy to do things'." Isn’t it absurd to say all these things? If the trend is getting stronger, where will the younger generations learn from it?”

Zhu Di was very satisfied with this paragraph. The heroes of the Han and Tang Dynasties, in the words of Confucian Neo-Confucianists, were all high-spirited people who "ignored learning", but wasn't Zhu Di just such a person? Jiang Xinghuo wanted to combat this style of study, but he was actually creating a positive image for Zhu Di, and Zhu Di was naturally very satisfied.

"Since learning knows the mind, it must peep into the practice. If you want to see the practice, you must not investigate the trivial details, vulgarity or disputes. This is the principle of 'the golden body will appear when the fire is fierce'."

This was talking about the investigation and practice that Jiang Xinghuo had always advocated. It was a repeat of the same old tune. Zhu Di looked at the last paragraph.

"The study of sages and sages begins with the subtle likes and dislikes, and then is studied to govern the world. When looking at its fundamentals, is it consistent with human feelings and physics? Is it useful and practical? Is it beneficial to strengthening the country and enriching the people? Scholars and scholars should practice what they do and not just talk about it. He has no ears."

Jiang Xinghuo's memorial was quite well written. Zhu Di could imagine that once it was announced, it would be like throwing a big stone into a muddy pond full of fish, shrimps and toads, and it would definitely stir up a lot of mud.

And this kind of thinking is actually the study of meritorious service, that is, the thought of practical learning.

Changes in ideas are closely linked to changes in temples. What Jiang Xinghuo advocates is closely integrated with his political practice. That is, all reforms must be verified by success or failure, and naturally reject pedantic rhetoric.

At this time, after four years of Jianwen, the Kongshu academic style that was popular in both the government and the public was very popular. If this unhealthy trend was not reversed at the academic level, the Yongle New Deal would naturally be out of the question. At the end of the Southern Song Dynasty, it was precisely because of the rise of Neo-Confucianism that everyone was He kept the natural principles and destroyed human desires, and was passive and war-weary, so that although there were many loyal and brave soldiers, Sichuan was lost and Xiangyang was lost due to delays in government affairs. In the end, the Mongols marched southward to Shenzhou and sank. It was not until the period of Zhu Yuanzhang that the Han Dynasty regained the world.

During the Southern Song Dynasty, Neo-Confucianism was the dominant ideology. Binding the two for target shooting was obviously one of Jiang Xinghuo's plans.

"It seems that the Imperial Master has some calculations."

Zhu Di was generally satisfied with Jiang Xinghuo's plan.

In fact, unlike outside speculation, Zhu Di actually put far less thought into the current debate than assessing the rank of generals.

As long as Jiang Xinghuo can handle these things, Zhu Di doesn't mind delegating power appropriately.

After all, for Zhu Di, with the handle of the knife in his hand, no one can make a difference.

What I give you today, I can take back tomorrow.

After finishing dealing with the troubles in public opinion, Zhu Di looked at his eldest son and asked, "What's wrong? Are you finished with the cabinet affairs?"

Zhu Gaochi hesitated for a moment and then said: "I have some different opinions today. Please allow me to state my opinions."

Jiang Xinghuo seemed to have thought of something, but he just didn't expect that today would come so quickly.

"Say it." Zhu Di was in a good mood and said to the big boy.

"Father, I believe that Neo-Confucianism is the foundation of the country and cannot be shaken easily."

Zhu Gaochi gritted his teeth and finally said this.

"Um?"

Zhu Di did not get angry, but looked at Zhu Gaochi with interest, and then looked at Jiang Xinghuo.

"What do you mean, National Master?"