When Liu Bang first entered Xianyang, he was dazzled by the imperial treasures and beauties. Tempted to indulge, he nearly forgot his mission. His loyal officer Fan Kuai warned, "These luxuries caused Qin's downfall. Do not repeat their mistake." Zhang Liang added, "If you seek comfort now, how are you different from the tyrant you overthrew? Bitter medicine cures illness; honest advice guides action."
Awakened, Liu Bang sealed the treasury, withdrew his troops, and gathered the people. He issued a simple decree: "Murderers shall die; those who harm or steal shall face justice. All former Qin laws are abolished." This "Three Chapters of the Law" calmed the land. The people offered gifts, but Liu Bang refused, saying, "Our granaries are full. I will not burden you." Touched, they begged him to be their king.
True wisdom lies not in grasping everything, but in knowing when to let go. By restraining desire and heeding honest counsel, Liu Bang won what force alone could not—the hearts of the people.