有备无患 — “Be prepared in advance, and you will have no worries or misfortunes”

From 'Zuo Zhuan, Duke Xiang's 11th Year'. During the Spring and Autumn period, after Duke Dao of Jin became ruler, he wanted to restore Jin's prestige, just like his ancestor Duke Wen of Jin, and dominate the feudal lords.

At this time, Zheng was a small state, sometimes allying with Jin, and other times submitting to Chu. Duke Dao of Jin was very angry.

In 562 BC, he assembled troops from 11 states, including Song, Lu, Wei, and Liu, and launched an expedition against Zheng. Lord Jian of Zheng was defeated and surrendered, sending a large number of gifts to Jin, including one hundred chariots, several musicians, a collection of valuable musical instruments, and sixteen women skilled in singing and dancing. Duke Dao of Jin was very pleased.

He bestowed half of these gifts upon Wei Jiang, saying, 'Wei Jiang, it was you who persuaded me to make peace with the Rong and Di tribes, and also stabilized the various states of the Central Plains. In the past eight years, we have convened alliances with various feudal lords nine times. Now, our relations with all states are as harmonious as a beautiful piece of music. Zheng has sent so many gifts; let me share them with you!'

Wei Jiang replied, 'To be able to live in harmony with the Di and Rong is a blessing for our state. Your Majesty becoming the hegemon of the Central Plains feudal lords is due to your own talent; my contribution is negligible. However, I hope that while Your Majesty enjoys this peace and happiness, you can also consider the future of the state.'

'The Book of Documents' says: 'When in peace, one should think of the dangers that might arise in the future; if you think of them, you will be prepared, and if you are prepared, no calamity will occur.' I wish to use these words to remind Your Majesty!