• A Work of Renewal in the Johng-no District of Seoul
  • 1 One day, while staying near Hwahng Bridge, Sahng-jeh-nim, dressed in formal attire, said to Gahp-chil, “Today, we will go sightseeing here in Johng-no District.”
  • 2 Just as they set out, the minister of military affairs happened to pass by on horseback, accompanied by his entourage in a grand procession.
  • 3 Sahng-jeh-nim rolled up His sleeves and, taking big strides, approached the minister.
  • 4 He stood in front of the horse and raised both hands to stop it.
  • 5 Then He yelled, “If your intention was to be progressive, why did you not cut off your own hair instead of cutting off your horse’s mane?”
  • 6 The groom leading the horse was frightened by Sahng-jeh-nim’s thunderous voice. Without saying a word, the groom bowed his head and stood perfectly still.
  • 7 The minister on the horse was both scared and angry. His face turned red and then pale.
  • 8 He carefully studied Sahng-jeh-nim’s attire and way of speaking, but was baffled. The people watching were afraid as well.
  • 9 After a moment, the minister dismounted from his horse, greeted Sahng-jeh-nim, and asked His name.
  • 10 Sahng-jeh-nim said, “I am Gahng Jeung-san of Go-bu County.” He then firmly grasped the minister’s hand, pulled him closer, and said, “Let us go for a drink. I need to speak with you in private.”
  • 11 Sahng-jeh-nim led the minister by the hand through the crowd.
  • 12 Stupefied, the minister followed, leaving his horse behind. The crowd thought this strange and followed them.
  • 13 Sahng-jeh-nim led him to an inn by the roadside and ordered some drinks. Sitting in a formal manner, Sahng-jeh-nim said, “I must drink the first glass.” He drank and offered the minister the next glass.
  • 14 After they had a few drinks, Sahng-jeh-nim softly said, “If you and I develop a good relationship, the whole world will be at peace.”
  • 15 The minister did not know what to say to this. Explaining that he should attend to urgent official matters, the minister left, promising he would meet with Sahng-jeh-nim again.

  • (JSD Dojeon 5,98)




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