Question

Summarize this text in 200 or more words:

Heaven has abandoned China owing to its haughtiness and extravagant luxury. But I, living in the
northern wilderness, have not inordinate passions. I hate luxury and exercise moderation. I have only
one coat and one food. I eat the same food and am dressed in the same tatters as my humble
herdsmen. I consider the people my children, and take an interest in talented men as if they were my
brothers.... At military exercises I am always in the front, and in time of battle am never behind. In the
space of seven years I have succeeded in accomplishing a great work, and uniting the whole world into
one empire. I have not myself distinguished qualities. But the government of the [Chinese] is inconstant,
and therefore Heaven assists me to obtain the throne....
All together have acknowledged my supremacy. It seems to me that since the remote time... such an
empire has not been seen.... Since the time I came to the throne I have always taken to heart the ruling
of my people; but I could not find worthy men to occupy [high offices]....With respect to these
circumstances I inquired, and heard that thou, master, hast penetrated the truth.... For a long time thou
has lived in the caverns of the rocks, and hast retired from the world; but to thee the people who have
acquired sanctity repair, like clouds on the paths of the immortals, in innumerable multitudes.... But
what shall I do? We are separated by mountains and plains of great extent, and I cannot meet thee. I
can only descend from the throne and stand by the side. I have fasted and washed. I have ordered my
adjutant... to prepare an escort and a cart for thee.
Do not be afraid of the thousand li (a great distance). I implore thee to move thy sainted steps. Do not
think of the extent of the sandy desert. Commiserate the people in the present situation of affairs, or
have pity upon me, and communicate to me the means of preserving life. I shall serve thee myself. I
hope that at least thou wilt leave me a trifle of thy wisdom. Say only one word to me and I shall be
happy

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

The text narrates the story of a humble man living in the wilderness of northern China who has managed to rise to power and unite the whole world into one empire in just seven years. Despite his lack of distinguished qualities, he has been assisted by Heaven to obtain the throne due to the inconstancy of the Chinese government. Acknowledging the shortcomings in his rule, he seeks out a wise hermit living in seclusion in the mountains to help guide him in governing his people. Despite the vast distance separating them, he implores the hermit to come to his aid and share his wisdom. He promises to serve the hermit and begs for even a fraction of his knowledge to help him navigate the complexities of ruling his empire. The man's humility, moderation, and desire to improve his leadership skills are evident, as he recognizes the need for guidance and is willing to seek it out from someone more wise and experienced than himself.