A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

The "Exam Question" from the Hongzhi era challenges scholars to understand the teachings of ancient sages, emphasizing the necessity of careful study for guidance. The question, which revolves around the "4th Son Accomplishment," references four Cheng-Zhu philosophers: Zhang Zai, Yang Shi, Lu Jiu Yuan, and Xu Heng, but does not name them, leaving candidates to guess their identities. The obscurity of the question reflects the candidates' knowledge depth. Shen Xi, an adept candidate, completes his exam despite the difficult questions and returns home exhausted, seeking rest after the rigorous examination process.

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