The Shu King or the Chinese Historical Classic is a translation and commentary on one of China’s earliest historical texts, the Shujing (Book of Documents), which records political, religious, and social practices from ancient times. Walter Gorn Old presents the text in English, providing explanations of its contents, historical context, and cultural significance. The book includes records of ancient rulers, their proclamations, and administrative regulations, emphasizing the moral, philosophical, and religious foundations of Chinese governance. Old highlights the principles of justice, ritual observance, and ethical leadership that guided early Chinese society, illustrating how these shaped both political institutions and social norms. The commentary also explores the role of religion, philosophy, and customary law in public life. Intended for scholars and general readers interested in Chinese history, the work combines a faithful translation with interpretive notes, offering insight into the political, moral, and religious ideas that underpinned ancient China.
