“Unjust acts will lead to self-destruction.” This common proverb emphasizes the consequences of one’s wrongful actions. It suggests that if a person continues to engage in immoral behavior, it will ultimately lead to their downfall.
If a person’s intentions are corrupt and they choose the wrong path, even if they experience temporary success, they will eventually suffer ruin and damage their reputation. Throughout history, numerous examples of individuals have met such a fate, whether it be powerful government officials or influential figures in contemporary society.
Unjust acts will lead to self-destruction
“Unjust acts will lead to self-destruction” originates from a story in the ancient Chinese historical text Zuo Zhuan.
During the Spring and Autumn Period, the ruler, Duke Wu of Zheng, had two sons. The difficult birth of his eldest son caused his mother, Lady Jiang, much suffering. As a result, Lady Jiang did not favor her eldest son, but favored her younger son, Gongshu Duàn. She repeatedly requested that Duke Wu designate Gongshu Duàn as the crown prince, but Duke Wu refused.
Duke Wu appointed his eldest son, Duke Zhuang, the state’s ruler. Lady Jiang was determined to remove Duke Zhuang from power and requested that he hand over strategic military positions to Gongshu Duàn, but Duke Zhuang refused. Lady Jiang then asked for control over the Jing region to be given to Gongshu Duàn. Duke Zhuang had no reason to refuse and reluctantly agreed. Once Gongshu Duàn gained control of the Jing region, he used it as a base to consolidate his power and initiated extensive construction projects.
Jì Zhòng, a high-ranking official of the Zheng State, became deeply concerned about this situation and worried that Duke Zhuang would lose control over Gongshu Duàn in the future. However, Duke Zhuang was not worried and confidently said: “He has committed so many unjust acts that will surely bring his downfall. Just wait and see!”
Not long after, Duàn began manufacturing weapons, recruiting soldiers, and preparing to attack the capital city of Zheng. Lady Jiang secretly collaborated with him and planned to open the city gates for him to enter quickly.
Duke Zhuang was aware of Duàn’s and Lady Jiang’s conspiracy. Upon learning of the day Gongshu Duàn would attack the capital city, the Duke immediately sent 200 chariots to surround the Jing region. The local soldiers in the Jing region surrendered to Duke Zhuang, and consequently, Duàn suffered a crushing defeat and was forced to flee abroad.
Heaven and earth observe one’s actions
Similarly, throughout history, there are countless examples of people who have abused their power for personal gain have caused harm to ordinary people. However, any individuals who engage in “Unjust acts will lead to self-destruction” will reflect their ultimate fate, leading to ruin and eternal infamy.
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