The Zhou Li

The Zhou Li, also known as the Rites of Zhou, is an ancient Chinese text from about 300 BC that outlines the organizational structure and administrative principles of the Zhou Dynasty. It describes how government offices should be set up, the roles and responsibilities of officials, and the procedures for governing effectively. Think of it as an early handbook for creating a well-ordered government, emphasizing merit, righteousness, and harmony. It served as a foundational guide for Chinese political philosophy and bureaucratic systems, influencing governance concepts for centuries.