The Seventeen-Article Constitution
According to the Nihon Shoki, Prince Shotoku promulgated the Seventeen-Article Constitution in 604.
Although it is called a "constitution," it differs from modern legal frameworks; it is a set of moral codes and ethical guidelines for government officials and powerful clans. The constitution incorporates teachings from Buddhism, Confucianism, and Legalism.
Most researchers believe that the compilers of the Nihon Shoki embellished the text. Since it includes official titles that did not exist at the time of Prince Shotoku, some scholars argue it was significantly altered or even created in later eras. A researcher presumes that an original version was indeed drafted during the Suiko period in the 6th century.
The Seventeen-Article Constitution (Selected Summary)
I. Harmony is to be valued above all else.
Collaborate peacefully regardless of affiliation. Avoid letting hostility take control. Partisanship often causes us to lose sight of the big picture. If participants discuss matters harmoniously, any goal can be achieved.
II. Have deep faith in Buddhism.
Respect the Buddha, his teachings, and those who follow them. True villains are rare; most people can be guided by reason if they learn the teachings of Buddha.
III. Always follow the Emperor’s orders.
IV. Officials must act with courtesy.
Politeness is the foundation of good governance. It maintains social order and the hierarchy of officials. If superiors lack manners, social order breaks down and crime increases.
V. Put aside greed and ensure fair justice.
Do not work for personal gain. Trials must be fair. It is unacceptable for officials to favor the wealthy due to bribes while ignoring the pleas of the poor.
VI. Deal with things after discerning right and wrong.
Spread news of people's good actions. If you witness a crime, encourage the offender to reform. Flatterers and deceivers are "sharp weapons" that ruin the state and destroy the people.
VII. Fulfill your own duties without interference.
Every person has a specific role. While few are born wise, people can become wise through learning. Assigning the right person to the right position ensures a nation's security. An ancient sage king sought the right person for a role, rather than creating a role for a person.
VIII. Officials should work hard from early morning until late evening.
The workload is heavy, so officials must start early to be prepared for any emergencies.
IX. Do your job with complete honesty.
A lack of integrity leads to failure in everything.
X. Respect different opinions and control your anger.
Everyone has their own perspective. While everyone thinks they are right, most people are actually quite similar. If someone gets angry with you, reflect on whether you might be at fault. Listen to others' opinions even if you are sure you are right.
XI. Evaluate subordinates fairly when giving rewards or punishments.
Nowadays, officials often fail to reward achievements and sometimes punish innocent people. This must be handled justly.
XII. Local officials should not collect extra taxes for their own profit.
Avoid double taxation. A country cannot have two masters, and the people should not be burdened for an official’s personal gain.
XIII. Understand the work of your colleagues and superiors.
Sometimes you may be unable to work due to circumstances, so everyone should cooperate. Never say "this is not my business."
XIV. Do not hold grudges or feel envious.
Envy knows no bounds. If you resent those with superior talent or knowledge, great leaders will never be discovered. This prevents the country from finding the right leaders.
XV. Focus on the public interest without letting personal feelings interfere.
Personal feelings disrupt work and have a negative impact on the performance of public agencies.
XVI. Employ the people's labor only at appropriate times.
Farmers should not be forced to do public work during the busy farming seasons.
XVII. Major decisions should not be made in isolation.
Important matters must be discussed with others. Looking at things from multiple perspectives helps you avoid serious mistakes.
Commentary on Article 1
Today, many Japanese people misunderstand the meaning of Article 1. It is not about simply "going along with others." Shotoku lived in a violent age. While some argue that Article 1 is based on the Analects of Confucius, I believe that "Wa" (和,harmony) in this context specifically refers to "peace" (平和,heiwa) to end the cycle of violence.
