簡介 Introduction

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Liao-Fan's Four Lessons Audio Book

 

 

Original Work by Mr. Liao-Fan Yuan of the Ming Dynasty

Interpreted by Mr. Zhi-Hai HuangRe-edited by Police Officer Wang

Sponsored and recorded by The Education Foundation of Liao-Fan's Four Lessons

 

 

Liao-Fan's Four Lessons was originally written in the Ming Dynasty of China by Mr. Liao-Fan Yuan.  The book was intended to teach his son, Tien-Chi Yuan, how to recognize the true face of destiny, how to tell good from evil, and the method for correcting one's faults and practicing kind deeds.  It also provided living proof of the rewards and outcomes of people who practiced kind deeds and cultivated virtue and humility.  Relating from his own experience at changing destiny, Mr. Yuan himself was a living embodiment of his teachings.  After hearing this wonderful book, one may feel more open and confident towards life, and at the same time, courageously compelled to follow the example of Liao-Fan in changing one's original destiny.  Liao- Fan's Four Lessons is truly a rare book which is not only precious to an individual's spiritual needs, but is also capable of transforming unhealthy attitudes in today's society.

 

While listening through the lessons, one may wonder why the Chinese placed so much emphasis on examinations.  In the olden days of Chinese civilization, studying was held in highest regard whilst all other occupations were considered low-class.  The Chinese government selected its officials through a system of meritocracy; many levels of imperial examinations were given to all who wished to take them. It was very difficult to pass these tests, and one had to be very learned and talented in writing essays.  Those who did pass had the chance to advance to high government positions and live a life of wealth and prominence.  People who couldn't pass the examinations were not recognized, no matter how smart or able they were otherwise. That was the reason why many youths of that time turned to studying for the exams in hopes for a prosperous future.

 

Since the original work of Liao-Fan was written in classical Chinese, it tended to be poetic and terse, making the book hard to read and understand for modern-day people.  In early 1900, Mr. Zhi-Hai Huang added a detailed commentary to the book using modern Chinese.  This edition of Liao-Fan's Four Lessons became very popular and benefited many people of his time.  However, as time went on, even Mr. Huang's edition became too tedious for today's readers, so the influence of this beneficial book was greatly reduced.  In view of this sad situation, police officer Wang devoted himself to the reorganization, editing, and reprinting of the book, allowing better access and understanding to these wonderful teachings.  Today, with the sponsorship of kind people, officer Wang's edition of The Brief Explanation of Liao-Fan's Four Lessons has been produced into Liao- Fan's Four Lessons Audio Book.  After listening through it, we hope that everyone will learn the spirit of Liao-Fan in changing one's destiny and create a brighter future for oneself, the society, the nation, and all people of the world.