Knowledge ID: 13668

Bakdal Year 3975 (Accession of King Jeongmyeong), Sept 5 - Ch 3

Description
Seonwoo Myeongdeok and his companions pleaded incessantly, and after a long time, he ascended to the throne. Queen Eo was made the Queen Dowager, Consort Jang was elevated to Queen, and Crown Prince Yeong was declared the heir.
At last, from Geunjeongmun Gate, a royal decree was proclaimed:
"I, the sovereign, speak thus. How can the heavens cast such a grave punishment? Even if I strike the ground and wail, my lamentation cannot reach the late king, and my sorrow is boundless. Reflecting upon it, the great throne cannot remain vacant for long, so I reluctantly heeded the pleas of my subjects.
Though I have inherited the legacy and become the master of the people, how can my humble self bear such a burden? Ascending to this lofty position filleth my heart with fear, and witnessing the grand ritual bringeth forth an unending stream of tears. I seek counsel in all matters from my ministers, hoping for great relief, and I urge all officials, high and low, to diligently support my governance.
Furthermore, let it be known far and wide, so that the people may share in this joy and live together in harmony. On the dawn of the 30th day of this month, all those guilty of minor offenses are pardoned, and those in office shall each be promoted by one rank.
Thus, I decree, hoping that my intentions are well understood."
Details
Knowledge ID13668