Is “He revealed his benevolence by opening one side of the net.” true?

attested in history

The Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji) records that Tang once saw a hunter setting nets on all four sides. He removed three sides and prayed, 'Those who want to go left, go left; those who want to go right, go right.' The feudal lords heard of this and praised his virtue.

成
Cheng Tang

In official history, he is the founding monarch of the Shang dynasty, a benevolent ruler who showed mercy by opening one side of the net; in novels, he is revered as an ancient sage and virtuous king.

Other claims about Cheng Tang

Sources cited above. Compiled with AI assistance and checked against those sources; for cultural reference.Data & method →

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